ISO 19650 is a series of international standards on information management that uses building information modeling (BIM) over the whole life cycle of a built asset. BIM is used to systematically manage information, including drawings and models and documents, such as contracts, schedules and meeting minutes. The ISO 19650 standards aim primarily to enhance collaboration with the supply chain to reduce risks and costs and increase opportunities for enhancement.

The standards are divided into five parts, which include both the delivery and operational phases of assets. They specify the responsibilities of each party and the requirements of each information management process.

ISO 19650 is applicable to all stages in the life cycle of a built asset. It demands a security-minded approach to information management throughout:

• Planning and development
• Concept design
• Detail and technical design
• Pre-construction or pre-manufacture review
• Construction or manufacture
• Engineering
• Operation
• Maintenance

The concepts and principles of ISO 19650 are new to the built environment and the full adoption of BIM is still at an early stage.