Model Development Specification: Communicating the Exchange of Reliable Models

Mayo Clinic is currently engaged in a major expansion of its Phoenix, Arizona, campus, which involves multiple interdependent projects. To manage the design process, we used the model development specification (MDS) for the project, first mapping architectural and engineering standard milestones and critical project milestones to the AIA/BIMForum levels of development (LODs). The MDS process enabled the teams to use lean principles to identify specific systems for which design needed to be accelerated to accommodate the design and coordination schedule, minimizing the acceleration of all areas. This approach enabled the team to meet milestone dates without impacting design. The MDS process supported team member communication by identifying what was needed by each team member, when it was needed, and how it impacted the project schedule. The class concludes with a demonstration on the MDS documentation process and coordination tools involved.