In the construction world, Building Information Modeling (BIM) promises streamlined coordination, fewer clashes, and better builds. But any project manager who’s overseen a multi-trade BIM project knows the truth: when the process fails, it fails hard, leading to expensive RFIs, rework, and scheduling nightmares.
The real challenge? Hidden risks in the BIM process that don’t surface until it’s too late.
Let’s uncover these risks and show you how to avoid them with a proactive, trade-specific coordination strategy that delivers results.
Risk #1: Overlapping Systems from Different Trades
What goes wrong: When MEP, fire protection, and low voltage systems are modeled in silos, the result is frequent system overlaps. A duct runs through a cable tray. Sprinkler pipes block lighting fixtures. No one notices, until the field crew does.
Why it happens: Each subcontractor models independently, often without clear rules for routing zones, hierarchy, or elevation prioritization. By the time the clash gets flagged in coordination meetings, it’s already impacted downstream trades.
How to avoid it: Implement early trade-specific spatial planning and enforce consistent system hierarchies. Define elevation zones and critical routing paths per trade before modeling begins. Use internal clash detection prior to federated model reviews.
Risk #2: Incomplete or Inaccurate LOD Execution
What goes wrong: Models look great in 3D but lack the detail and metadata required for fabrication or field installation. Incomplete LOD execution leads to RFIs, change orders, and manual redlining on-site.
Why it happens: LOD (Level of Development) intent is often misunderstood or inconsistently applied across trades. Teams confuse visual detail (geometry) with actionable data (parameters and constructability).
How to avoid it: Clearly define LOD expectations per discipline and phase. For example, LOD 350 for electrical means conduit with fittings, hanger details, and panel IDs, not just lines on a floor plan. Conduct internal LOD audits before external coordination.
Risk #3: Late Clash Detection
What goes wrong: Clashes are discovered too late, after prefabrication has started or field installations are underway. Correcting them at this point is costly and time-consuming.
Why it happens: Many projects rely solely on weekly federated model reviews using Navisworks, missing out on proactive discipline-level checks. Some issues are visible in trade models long before they’re formally caught.
How to avoid it: Run internal clash tests by discipline throughout the modeling process. Don’t wait for the GC’s coordination cycle to identify issues you could’ve resolved earlier. Set up automated clash rules in Navisworks or BIM Track to catch high-risk intersections.
Risk #4: BIM That Looks Good But Doesn’t Build Well
What goes wrong: The model passes coordination checks but can’t be built as-is. It doesn’t account for installation methods, access clearances, or sequencing needs.
Why it happens: Modelers without field experience may prioritize visual completeness over constructability. Trade-specific installation realities (e.g., access panels, clearance for lifts) are overlooked.
How to avoid it: Integrate constructability reviews into your QA/QC workflow. Involve field superintendents or trade leads in model validation. Ask: “Can this actually be built the way it’s modeled?”
Risk #5: Ambiguous Ownership and Scope Gaps
What goes wrong: Two trades model the same system. Or worse, no one models it, assuming it’s “by others.” The result? Confusion, delays, and double work.
Why it happens: BIM scopes are not always clearly defined. Overlaps between fire alarm and electrical, HVAC and plumbing, or telecom and security can create gray zones of responsibility.
How to avoid it: Create a detailed BIM responsibility matrix and model element ownership chart. Use a BIM Execution Plan (BEP) to formalize who models what, at what LOD, and by when.
Case Study: A Cautionary Tale with a Positive Turn
We recently supported a 250,000+ sq ft mixed-use development with three distinct occupancy types, office, lab, and multifamily. The original BIM process suffered from disjointed low voltage coordination, inconsistent modeling standards, and delayed RFI response times.
By taking over as the backend modeling and coordination partner, we implemented our trade-specific BIM standards, ran internal QA cycles, and participated in weekly cross-trade reviews. The result?
- A significant drop in RFIs
Early lock-in of field install sequences - On-time delivery of LOD 350+ shop drawings
The lesson? Hidden risks can be mitigated, if you structure the process right.
Your Action Plan for Smarter BIM Coordination
Project managers under pressure to hit deadlines and reduce rework can protect their projects with these steps:
- Establish trade-specific BIM standards. Don’t rely on generic templates.
- Define clear LOD expectations per system and milestone.
- Run proactive clash checks at the trade level.
- Validate models with real-world constructability in mind.
- Ensure all scope responsibilities are mapped and owned.
Final Thoughts: From Risk Management to Risk Prevention
The most successful BIM projects don’t just avoid mistakes, they prevent them from happening in the first place. As a project manager, your role is to ensure that coordination is not just a phase, but a mindset embedded from day one.
At Bay BIM Designs, we specialize in trade-level coordination that reduces rework, eliminates ambiguity, and delivers models that build right the first time.
Want a second opinion on your current BIM workflows? Let’s connect for a quick audit or sample QA review. A 15-minute call today could save you weeks of rework tomorrow.