In today’s data-driven construction and operations landscape, Asset Information Management (AIM) isn’t just a buzzword it’s a necessity. With the increasing adoption of Building Information Modeling (BIM) and the ISO 19650 series, particularly ISO 19650-3, AIM is becoming a cornerstone of efficient and smart facilities management.

But what exactly is AIM? How does ISO 19650-3 shape it? And more importantly, how can your organization implement it without getting lost in technical jargon or bloated processes?

Let’s break it down minimal theory, maximum application.

What Is Asset Information Management (AIM)?

AIM is the structured process of managing digital information about a built asset after construction is complete, throughout its operational lifecycle. It covers everything from equipment databases and 3D models to maintenance manuals and performance metrics.

ISO 19650-3 defines the rules of the game during this operational phase. While design teams work with a Project Information Model (PIM) during construction, the Asset Information Model (AIM) takes over once the building is operational.

Think of AIM as your asset’s digital twin a live, evolving repository that holds critical data for maintenance, compliance, upgrades, and decision-making.

Why AIM Matters: From Cost Savings to Compliance

Implementing AIM effectively means:

• Quicker access to maintenance data
• Reduced operating costs
• Smoother handovers
• Enhanced asset lifecycle performance
• Improved compliance and risk management

Real-world projects like Crossrail (Elizabeth Line, UK) and UCSF Medical Center (USA) saw dramatic improvements in operations by leveraging AIM powered by BIM and ISO 19650-3 principles.

How to Implement AIM with ISO 19650-3: A Step-by-Step Framework

Here’s a practical roadmap to get AIM up and running in your organization:

1. Define Your Information Needs (OIR & AIR)

Start by defining Organizational Information Requirements (OIR) and Asset Information Requirements (AIR). What does your facilities or safety team need to run operations efficiently?

Example: For each HVAC unit, track make/model, maintenance schedule, warranty expiry, and location.

2. Assign Information Management Roles

Clear roles are critical. The appointing party (usually the asset owner) needs an Asset Information Manager or BIM for FM lead. Contractors and suppliers must have designated information coordinators.

3. Set Up a Common Data Environment (CDE)

A CDE ensures everyone stores, shares, and updates asset data consistently. Tools like Autodesk BIM 360, Trimble Connect, or IBM Maximo (with COBie integration) help centralize data, enforce standards, and manage version control.

4. Collect and Populate the AIM

• For new projects: Ensure construction teams input asset data during the build phase.
• For existing buildings: Use scan-to-BIM methods or manual data collection to build your AIM.

Case in Point: In Auckland’s Mason Bros. Building, contractors used mobile BIM tools on site, enabling a complete digital handover.

5. Validate the Information

Use tools to validate models, check for missing fields, and ensure accuracy. Structured data is only as good as its quality.

6. Maintain and Use the AIM

Once operational, integrate the AIM into your FM workflows:

• Use AIM-linked systems for scheduling and emergency response
• Update AIM with every repair, renovation, or replacement
• Assign responsibility and trigger protocols to ensure updates aren’t forgotten

Real-World Success: AIM in Action

UCSF Medical Center

Integrated BIM models with IBM Maximo using COBie, enabling FM teams to visually locate equipment and retrieve records instantly.

Crossrail / Elizabeth Line

Mandated asset tagging and digital data standards from day one, delivering a complete AIM ready for operational maintenance.

Mason Bros. Building

Achieved a mobile-enabled digital handover, giving the FM team real-time access to 3D models and asset data on tablets.

Common Pitfalls (And How to Avoid Them)

• Vague Information Requirements → Use OIR/AIR early on, involving FM teams.
• Tech Integration Challenges → Use open formats like IFC or COBie, plan for integration.
• Cultural Resistance → Provide role-specific training and highlight benefits.
• Data Overload → Focus on quality and relevance, not just quantity.
• “One-and-Done” Thinking → Commit to maintaining the AIM long-term like any physical asset.

Tools & Standards You Need to Know

• IFC / COBie – Open formats for long-term data interoperability
• Uniclass 2015 / OmniClass – For consistent asset classification
• CMMS/CAFM systems – Maximo, Archibus, Planon
• BIM software – Revit, ArchiCAD, Navisworks
• Middleware or Custom Databases – For bridging BIM and FM systems

Conclusion: Why AIM Is the Future of Facility Management

Implementing AIM according to ISO 19650-3 turns chaotic spreadsheets and siloed PDFs into a single source of truth for your assets. It empowers facility managers, reduces downtime, and ensures that your asset information stays as current and valuable as the physical asset itself.

Remember: AIM isn’t just a handover deliverable—it’s a long-term strategy.

“Look after your asset information model, and it will care for your asset.”

Start small, get the foundations right, and scale with confidence.