What is BS 7000-4 about?
BS 7000-4 is part four of a multi-series of British standards on design management systems, this part covers a guide to managing design in construction.
BS 7000-4 gives guidance on the management of the construction design process at all levels, for all organizations and for all types of construction projects. The guidance given is applicable to purpose-built constructions, equipment, and components. It is intended for those who work in and with the construction industry, particularly designers and those managing design.
Note: BS 7000-4 makes reference to, but does not cover activities prior to client/employer initiation of a project or factors considered by clients/employers when selecting the most appropriate form of construction procurement.
Who is BS 7000-4 for?
BS 7000-4 on design management systems for construction is relevant to:
- Architects
- Designers and engineers
- Information managers
- Contractors
- BIM consultants
- Local authorities
- Higher educational establishments
Why should you use BS 7000-4?
There have been significant advances in CAD and Building Information Modelling (BIM) technology, with BIM Level 2 being mandated for use on all government construction projects since 2016.
New technologies (in particular BIM) make it more important than ever to operate a collaborative design process across the recognized design disciplines and incorporate economic and process considerations. This also increases the need for greater rigor in the management of that process and for the application of appropriate measures and techniques.
The guidelines outlined in BS 7000-4 relate to collaborative working, new technologies, construction procurement and changing roles and responsibilities in the construction industry. These can help bring your organization greater efficiencies and improved ways of working.
What’s changed since the last update?
BS 7000-4:2013 supersedes BS 7000-4:1996, which is withdrawn. BS 7000-4:2013 includes some changes with respect to BS 7000-4:1996. These are:
- BS 7000-4:2013 has been revised by industry experts to align with developments in the BIM world and best practices in the construction industry
- BS 7000-4:2013 now provides principles and a common reference for company and project protocols, which can also be used in reverse to check that the bases have been covered
