4D-Planning in Construction Management

Building information modeling (BIM) is a process that came to revolutionize the work -flow of the AEC Industry. The fourth dimension of BIM focuses on linking the 3D geometrical models with time and scheduling. The visualization of the schedule using 4D planning methods enhances not only the Critical Space Analysis which is part of the new approaches to project scheduling, but also facilitates decision making throughout planning and construction phase. The opportunities of 4D planning also improve procurement management and spatial constrains reinforcing and supplement the location-based scheduling. Another approach that gains more and more ground is the linkage of 4D BIM with the Lean construction practices . This article investigates the values and benefits that 4D Planning intends to create simultaneously with the barriers and constrains that need to be addressed to minimize the cost and time of construction projects and maximize the benefits and effectiveness.

Framework

Nowadays AEC Industry is in a transitional phase, where it tries to shift from "2D-based documentation and staged delivery processes to a digital prototype and collaborative work-flow"