ABSTRACTJESSE M. MALLARD. Exploration of how Building Information Modeling (BIM) and visual data is used within the Architectural Engineering and Construction (AEC) Industry currently to assist in closing the knowledge gaps between Owners and Design and Construction Teams. (Under the direction of DR. GLENDA MAYO)Owners and their Facility Management (FM) teams face many challenges when handover is complete. The most significant challenges relate to ensuring the data provided can be adequately used for the facility to operate at its optimum performance. In recent decades technology has improved to provide solutions to some issues faced. However, the industry still lacks proper processes for storage and use of the data provided. Building Information Modeling (BIM) and other forms of visual data (i.e. 3D Laser Scanning and 360-degree photographs) have the potential to act as data libraries for the FM team to utilize during the Operations and Maintenance (O&M) phase, but the format to accommodate this project phase is lacking. The results of an in-depth literature review and a survey focusing on current uses, challenges, and requirements of BIM and visual data will be presented. Results of these analysis methods show that Owners and their FM teams need more knowledge on processes for successful adoption of BIM and visual data formats. The gap between Owners and Design and Construction teams must first be closed for the Owners to reap the potential benefits of BIM and visual data.
