BIM Manager Handover Questions

BIM management has become an integral component of successful firm leadership, business growth, and project delivery. Having a dedicated team member that oversees this management is now part of most firms. But what happens when your day to day is tied to one person? Developing a strategic and overlapping system will ensure that if you loose that person, the firm can continue to operate undisturbed. Firm leaders must be equipped to navigate the transition to a new BIM Lead, BIM Manager, or other roles supporting the firm’s digital practice.

To support this process, we have developed a practical guideline to help ensure a smooth and effective transition.

General Role & Responsibilities

1. What are your day-to-day responsibilities as the BIM Manager?

2. What are the most critical tasks you handle that must not be overlooked?

3. Can you outline specific current BIM standards, workflows, and protocols in place?

4. What are the biggest challenges you've faced in this role, and how did you address them?

BIM Standards

1. Where are the BIM templates, project families, and key resources stored?

2. Are there any custom scripts, add-ins, or automations used in workflows?

3. What are the most important reference materials for BIM processes?

Project Workflow & Coordination

1. How do you initiate a new BIM project (steps, setup, templates, etc.)?

2. How is design coordination and clash detection handled?

Software & Tools

1. What software does the team rely on (Revit, Navisworks, BIM 360, Dynamo, etc.)?

2. Are there any customized scripts, plugins, or third-party tools being used?

Team & Training

1. What training or onboarding do new hires typically go through?

2. Are there any recurring training sessions or knowledge-sharing meetings?

3. What are the common mistakes people make when using BIM, and how can they be prevented?

Future Considerations & Risks

1. What upcoming challenges should we prepare for regarding BIM implementation?

2. What processes need improvement or updating?

3. What recommendations do you have for the team moving forward?

4. If you had more time, what improvements or initiatives would you implement?

Handover & Contacts

1. What ongoing projects need immediate attention in your absence?

2. Can you provide a final handover checklist before you leave?

Keep detailed records and notes of all responses to support onboarding and ensure a smooth transition for the individual(s) assuming the role. When possible, schedule a transition and collaboration meeting between the outgoing and incoming parties.

The goal is to ensure that project delivery and team performance remain uninterrupted throughout the transition.

Good luck!