A Top-Down Hierarchical Decomposition Approach for Generating Process Models to Aid BIM Data Exchanges

Process models are a critical component in the development of building information modeling (BIM) software interoperability advances, specifically with information delivery manuals (IDMs). These process models’ formulations have varied over the past two decades through various implemented techniques used to capture data and tasks within the modeling domain. Currently, a detailed bottom-to-top (BtT) developmental approach is prescribed or conducted for different IDMs. Such an approach has its purposes but can, at times, miss opportunities and critical interactions outside of that specific domain instance. In response to this, research and development into a process developmental methodology that looks from the top down [a top-to-bottom (TtB) approach] was undertaken. This method was developed for an integrated structural process model (ISPM) that permits developers to capture relevant data from outside parties without being material-specific, yet is still inclusive. The TtB methodology is based on a hierarchical decomposition ontology that captures both high-level processes and lower-level detail processes or tasks. In this paper, the steps, criteria, and formulation rules undertaken in this TtB methodology are discussed. Additionally, how it was adopted and validated to ensure equal or better process quality, as compared with the current method, is further described. Validation was conducted against case study projects, as well as other parallel process modeling initiatives. As part of the discussion, a technical summary of the generated ISPM to showcase what the methodology can produce, and its resulting rigor. The generated TtB methodology provides a framework for future developers of IDMs and other data schemas, to take a more holistic approach that will capture broader interactions from several perspectives, along with an avenue for future integration with existing IDMs.