Integrated planning approach through the extension of BIM methodology at urban scale

The adoption of Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a phenomenon that has become increasingly global in the last twenty years. Within this context, architecture, planning and engineering need processes that can enable diffused collaborative practices, as the project is now generated by the pluralisation of specializations, which risks expunging an overall vision of the dynamics that structure the built environment. BIM then qualifies as a moment of synthesis with respect to a fragmented sector that for some years now has been crystallized in a crisis situation, but also as a method and opportunity that is a consequence of digital transformation to which Italy is slowly adapting. The research and application work proposed in this dissertation aims to investigate possibilities offered by BIM in relation to the planning practiced directly in a professional field. The thesis is therefore born from the experience carried out within the Studio Mellano Associati – Architettura e Urbanistica – SMA with the aim of continuing and expanding to the urban planning area the experimentation of the new working paradigm recently started by the Studio in the architectural field. The argumentation is conceptually divided into three parts. 1. The first is a comprehensive introduction that revolves around the vast concept of BIM, which has been examined from its genesis to be then deepened in purposes, definitions and regulatory formalization of procedures and technologies. 2. In the second, starting from the description of the case study, a collaborative working method strongly based on the respect of Italian and international regulations has been established, so that procedural, documental and information flow can be implemented within the Studio, integrating with the modalities already consolidated in the project team by defining a best practice applicable equally to other design scenarios. 3. The final section critically discusses the results obtained, illustrating strengths and weaknesses of the method, with particular reference to the advantages that can be pursued in professional field.