The Challenge

A large commercial building project was initiated with the vision of establishing a comprehensive digital framework that would streamline design, construction, and operations using innovative technologies.

However, a critical challenge emerged: stakeholders had limited awareness of ISO 19650 processes, documentation requirements, and Common Data Environment (CDE) workflows. This knowledge gap created delays, misalignment, and inefficiencies in digital construction practices threatening the project’s goal of achieving a fully digitized and collaborative environment.

Client’s Initial Hurdles

• Stakeholders unfamiliar with ISO 19650 workflows and requirements.
• Absence of standardized documentation (EIR, BEP, TIDP).
• Lack of a centralized Common Data Environment for collaboration.
• Complexity in linking 3D BIM models with project schedules for accurate 4D & 5D simulation.
• Risk of delays, cost overruns, and execution errors without digital coordination.

Why This Was Critical

Why were stakeholders struggling with ISO 19650?

Because most participants had little to no prior exposure to ISO 19650 workflows, leading to inconsistent file management, missing documentation, and confusion in responsibilities.

Why was time a critical factor?

The project had a strict construction timeline without standardized digital processes, approvals, coordination, and clash resolution would delay design and execution by weeks.

Why did collaboration gaps pose a risk?

Multiple consultants, contractors, and design teams were working simultaneously. Without a Common Data Environment (CDE), information exchange risked becoming fragmented, causing rework and disputes.

Why were 4D & 5D BIM simulations essential?

Because linking the model with time and cost was the only way to monitor planned vs actual progress, validate constructability, and control project expenses effectively

What would have gone wrong without intervention?

The project would have faced misaligned teams, higher rework, cost overruns, compliance issues, and lost opportunities to build a reusable digital asset for future operations.

Gaps in Existing Information

• No ISO 19650-compliant documentation (BEP, EIR, TIDP) no single source of truth.
• Siloed workflows with informal file exchange, causing duplication and version conflicts.
• No structured method to validate progress against site conditions.
• Scattered data across formats and platforms, with no integration into a Common Data Environment (CDE).

Why Specific Requirements Mattered

• ISO 19650 standardization - Structured processes for documentation, file naming, and approvals.
• Common Data Environment (CDE) - A centralized hub ensuring the right data reached the right people.
• 4D & 5D BIM integration - Linking design with schedule and cost for visibility and control.
• Reality Capture (LiDAR) - Verifying execution, reducing errors, and keeping As-Built models accurate.

The Desapex Solution

Desapex delivered a step-by-step framework for first-time ISO 19650 adoption:

• Framework Setup – Developed ISO 19650-compliant documentation (EIR, BEP, TIDP, risk register, naming conventions) and conducted stakeholder workshops.
• Common Data Environment – Configured Autodesk Construction Cloud as the single source of truth with integrated clash detection.
• 4D & 5D Simulation – Structured BIM models with WBS IDs, linking them to schedule and cost for virtual construction and accurate progress tracking.
• Reality Capture – Used LiDAR scans to continuously update BIM models, ensuring accuracy and preventing costly errors.

Result: A robust digital ecosystem enabling seamless collaboration, real-time tracking, and confident decision-making.

Project Timeline & Milestones

• Detail Design Phase: 6 months
• Construction Phase: Periodic progress tracking and updates throughout execution

Software & Technology Used:

• Autodesk Revit
• Autodesk Construction Cloud
• Autodesk Navisworks
• Synchro 4D Pro
• Reality Capture Software & 360° TrueView

The Real Business Value Delivered

Through Desapex’s intervention, the project achieved:

• A fully operational ISO 19650-compliant digital framework.
• Seamless stakeholder collaboration through a Common Data Environment.
• Time & cost savings by detecting errors early via 4D & 5D simulation.
• Reduced rework and delays with LiDAR-based progress validation.
• Long-term digital assets for ongoing facility management and future refurbishments.

What This Means for Future Projects

This project highlighted the power of starting with a structured digital framework. It not only enabled efficient delivery but also established a repeatable model for digital transformation in future developments.

By combining ISO 19650 processes, BIM simulations, and Reality Capture, the project now has a scalable digital ecosystem that improves certainty, reduces risk, and drives operational efficiency well beyond handover.

Key takeaway: Standardization + Technology = Smarter, faster, safer projects.