Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Alexander Skidan
At the Department of Construction Economics and Housing and Utilities, Alexander Skidan, PhD in Economics and Associate Professor of the Department, proposed a methodology for generating cost estimates based on a digital information model (DIM) as part of a grant for research by SPbGASU faculty in 2025. The study explains the rationale for digitizing estimates, the problems this solves, and who will benefit most from these solutions.
Traditional estimates rely heavily on two-dimensional drawings and manual calculations, which are a source of errors, wasted time, and controversial comments during expert assessments. The study demonstrates that with proper integration of the CIM, estimate data can be automatically extracted from the model, reducing human error and increasing process transparency. The study establishes a methodology for interaction between designers, estimators, clients, and experts in a unified digital space.
|
Stage |
Designer / TIM specialist |
Estimator |
Technical customer |
General contractor |
Expertise |
|
Creation of CIM and attribute filling |
Generates a model, introduces attributes |
Provides consultation on cost estimates |
Approves requirements for the composition and quality of data |
Information about the structure of the CIM |
– |
|
Extraction of the VOR |
Prepares VOR data in digital form |
Checks the correctness of the parameters and forms the structure of the future estimate |
Controls data completeness |
Receives preliminary volumes |
– |
|
Assignment of estimate standards |
Provides classified model elements |
Compares the elements of the CIM with the standards of the SNB |
– |
– |
– |
|
Cost calculation and estimate generation |
Ensures the correctness of the source data, makes changes, records the GUID and parameters |
Performs cost calculations and generates estimates |
Controls budget indicators |
Getting acquainted with the calculation |
– |
|
Preparing data for examination |
Exports CIM and related data (IFC, XML) |
Generates CVOR and estimates, checks for completeness (GGE XML) |
Monitors compliance with requirements |
Receives the final document |
Checking volumes and costs by ifcGUID |
|
Expertise and approval |
– |
Provides advice on expert comments |
Main approver |
Informed |
Conducts an inspection and issues a conclusion |
The study describes a set of practical rules and a matrix of responsibilities for each participant in the formation of estimate documentation: unified glossaries of terms and attributes for the model, requirements for the level of detail (LOD) for estimating purposes, data transfer regulations, and automatic estimate downloads in XML format.
Main advantages and practical benefits:
Speed: the estimate is generated in parallel with the project and can be 100 percent ready by the time the model is completed; Accuracy: multiple interpretations of names and manual data transfers are eliminated; Transparency: the expert receives calculation formulas and references to the model elements, which reduces the number of formal comments.
Who needs this right now?
For public and private customers – for more reliable budget control and transparency in the use of funds.
For contractors – to quickly respond to project changes and have an up-to-date estimate when negotiating with subcontractors.
For banks and investors – a more accurate assessment of the cost and risks of a project.
For software and standards developers, the methodology specifies technical integration points (IFC, TIMML, XML), which is important for plugins and converters.
For estimators and CIM specialists – a transition to the role of analyst and coordinator, and not just a table assembler.
The developed methodology recognizes that the transition will require effort: standardizing terminology, setting up parameter templates, training estimators to use the model, and adapting software from different manufacturers. It is useful to rely on existing regulations and orders from the Ministry of Construction/GOST standards, which already provide the regulatory framework for integrating the CIM into estimating practice.
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.