Civil Integrated Management for Highway Infrastructure: Case Studies and Lessons Learned

Abstract

The use of information modeling and digital data for highway projects has seen a considerable surge over the past decade. These tools have enhanced the predictability and performance of several tasks in the project delivery process. This study explores the implementation of civil integrated management (CIM) practices in four case studies and documents the lessons learned to enhance CIM inclusion in project delivery processes. CIM encompasses the system of interdependent technologies and practices that facilitate collection, management, and utilization of digital information for project delivery and asset management processes. CIM is an emerging practice, and studies concerning integration of CIM technologies with project life cycle are limited. Through case studies of four highway projects, this study emphasizes the standards and processes that played a vital role in utilizing CIM technologies for contract documentation, design coordination, construction automation, and project management. The two small-scale projects investigated as part of this study demonstrate that pilot initiatives could be successfully carried out to harvest best practices in overcoming contract and legal challenges while embracing new technologies in agencies’ workflow. The two large-scale projects indicate that with the owner’s participation and expertise, the role of CIM technologies can be further enhanced toward performing project management functions. The lessons learned from the case studies are organized to provide a synthesis of process and organizational considerations that would enhance the agencywide adoption of CIM technologies.