Implementation of BIM in the tunnel design – Engineering consultant's aspect

The importance of information management was recognised in surface construction industry decades ago, and is increasingly being recognised through formal processes and laws. Around the world, these laws and codes of practice are currently being drafted and enacted, to reflect the development of software tools and corresponding increasing adoption by industry. This paper deals with general overview of BIM and its benefits as well as specifics of implementing information modelling in the tunnelling business utilizing BIM (Building Information Modelling) technology developed for buildings as well as similar technology developed for the mining industry. Although BIM was initially recognised as a 3D digital representation of physical and functional characteristics of a facility, the benefits of using it are much wider than anticipated by its definition. This paper focuses on aspect of consultants and the role of other parties in developing projects.