A bim-oriented approach to the consistency of design and cost documentation in contemporary construction

Abstract

The paper examines the problem of misalignment between design and cost
documentation as one of the key causes of cost overruns, schedule deviations, and reduced
transparency in construction project management. It is shown that conventional estimating
approaches based on manual or semi automated quantity take off from drawings generate cost
documentation as an autonomous information product weakly connected to design data, which leads
to repeated recalculations of quantities and costs and to the accumulation of errors when design
changes occur. A BIM oriented approach using 5D BIM is substantiated, within which geometric,
quantitative, and cost parameters are integrated into a single information model and maintained as
controlled versioned data. The role of Quantity Take Off and Bill of Quantities processes is
clarified, where QTO provides continuous extraction of quantitative indicators directly from model
element parameters, while BOQ forms a structured document for cost calculations and contractual
interaction. It is demonstrated that the information model as a single reliable source of data enables
scenario based estimating, early comparison of alternative technical solutions, and prompt
assessment of the cost impact of design changes. The prerequisites for effective implementation of
5D BIM in national practice are identified, including standardization of information requirements,
classification systems, and change management in accordance with ISO 19650 principles. The
obtained findings may be applied in practice through the use of artificial intelligence tools within
BIM oriented cost management systems.