BIM coordination combines and reviews building information from different disciplines so design interfaces can be resolved before they become site problems. Architecture, structure, services and specialist trades may each develop a model; the team checks how those models work together.

Is it just clash detection?

No. Automated checks can flag overlaps or insufficient clearances, but coordination also tests access for installation and maintenance, fire strategy, construction sequence, document status and responsibility for decisions. Some overlaps are intentional; some apparent clearances are still unbuildable.

What information must be agreed?

Set a common coordinate system, model exchange dates, required level of information, naming and issue workflow. Assign each issue an owner, priority and target date. buildingSMART’s BIM Collaboration Format provides a way to exchange issue context between model tools. Closed issues should be reflected in the authorised construction information.

What can the client ask for?

Request a coordination plan, issue register and milestone reports focused on major risks. Ask which models are contractual deliverables and which are coordination aids. A federated model can support clearer decisions, but it does not replace the approvals, specifications and responsibilities in the project documents.

A useful client milestone is a resolved riser or ceiling zone with a dated issue report and matching drawing set. “The models were federated” says little about whether the affected equipment can be installed, maintained and commissioned. Ask for the decisions behind the status colours.

The goal is fewer late surprises and usable information for the builder and owner. Read our design clash guide and discuss BIM support.

Sources and further reading

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