In many BIM projects, the BIM Execution Plan (BEP) is treated as a necessary formality that is created at the beginning, stored somewhere on a shared drive, and rarely revisited. It’s not uncommon to see BEPs stretching over 100 pages, trying to cover every possible scenario, only to end up being ignored when the real work begins. But there’s a better way.

The problem with traditional BEPs

Lengthy BEPs often fail at the very thing they’re meant to do: guide the project team. Instead of supporting collaboration, they overwhelm. Instead of clarifying roles, they confuse. In practice, the more complex a BEP becomes, the less likely it is to be used consistently.

A smarter approach

Imagine a BEP that fits into just a few pages, for example six. Now imagine those pages being interactive, with embedded links to relevant documents, automatic version tracking, and built-in sign-off workflows. Suddenly, the BEP isn't just a document: it becomes a dynamic part of the project environment.

This streamlined approach ensures that the information stays relevant, up-to-date, and accessible exactly where and when it's needed.

What happens when simplicity wins

When the BEP is concise and clearly structured, something shifts. Teams start to actually use it. Tasks align more easily. Expectations are understood. The plan becomes a practical reference point instead of an afterthought.

The key lies in making the BEP clear, interactive, and easy to integrate into daily workflows.

Final Thoughts

The value of a BEP isn’t in its page count, it’s in its effectiveness. A compact, intuitive, and well-organized BEP is far more powerful than a long, unreadable one. It should support the team, not burden them.

Less paperwork. More clarity. That’s how plans get followed and how projects succeed.

Need help on a BIM Execution Plan? Plan a video call with Dennis Mulch, Founder of DIBS42.

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