The architecture and construction of complex projects with BIM methodology requires an optimal common digital space or Common Data Environment (CDE) for the coordination of the intervening agents, the exchange of information and access to the working models. The availability of this CDE and its management are established in accordance with a series of protocols that facilitate uniformity and the fluid exchange of information between these actors.
One of these protocols, which is increasingly in demand, is the placement of the CDE of the architecture and construction project in the “cloud“. With this positioning in a digital space that can be accessed from anywhere in the world, collaboration between the teams working on the project is facilitated regardless of their physical location.
Different technology companies have developed CDE platforms. This is the case of Autodesk with BIM360, CYPE with BIM Server Center, Trimble Connect, etc. These are environments in which architectural and construction project information is securely stored, with guaranteed access for all team members.
The use of the CDE reduces the risk of lack of coordination, puts an end to possible duplication of information, enhances communication and facilitates notifications between project teams. This environment must be the only source of information, and all the documentation necessary for the development of the project must be managed in it.
The BIM general manager is the one who usually defines the management functions of the CDE, such as the permissions of the users involved, the different agents, etc. They are also in charge of its maintenance and integrity, and controls the backup copies and the access of the different teams to the folders that make up the architecture and construction project as a whole.
By David González Molina, BIM manager in the Architecture Department of Amusement Logic
