What does a BIM manager do?
A BIM manager sets up how information is created, exchanged and checked on a project, then makes sure it happens. The closest role in VNĪ's BIM requirements is the information manager. On the supplier's side it writes the post-contract BIM execution plan, builds the master information delivery plan from each discipline's plan, takes part in BIM meetings and organises them if delegated, and settles who supplies what, at what level of detail, in each phase.
BIM manager or BIM coordinator?
| BIM manager | BIM coordinator | |
|---|---|---|
| Works on | The process and the plan | The models |
| Main tasks | BIM execution plan, delivery plans, responsibilities, the client's requirements | Federating models, clash checks, tracking fixes |
| Produces | Post-contract plan, master delivery plan | Clash reports, coordination meeting minutes |
| Meetings | Takes part in BIM meetings, organises them if delegated | Leads coordination meetings |
VNĪ's requirements allow one person to hold both roles, which can suit a smaller project.
When do you need one?
These are our rules of thumb, not a requirement of any standard:
- The client has set BIM or information requirements (VNĪ, Rail Baltica, a municipality).
- More than three disciplines or companies exchange models.
- You are the general designer or general contractor and answer for the whole handover.
- The model will be used to run the building after handover.
Public work makes the first sign more common. Since 2025 a new publicly funded third-group building needs a model, and the annotation to that rule says construction companies will need to raise their staff's qualifications or bring in people with BIM skills.
When do you probably not?
- The project is small and private, with one designer.
- The client has no use for the model after handover.
Your own or external?
Again a rule of thumb:
| Your own employee | External | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Worth it with a steady flow of BIM projects | Usually less with one or two BIM projects a year |
| Start | Time to hire or grow one | Can start straight away |
| Continuity | The know-how stays in the company | Ends with the contract, unless templates and routines are handed over |
What should you check before naming one in a bid?
Tenders can ask for a BIM manager or BIM coordinator among the key personnel. Read these early, not in the last week before the deadline:
- Which role is asked for, and what its duties are under the contract.
- What experience must be shown: number of projects, type and size of building, period.
- How it is proven: CV, client references, contracts.
- Whether the person will really be available for the whole contract.
How Digitalyse can help
We can be your external BIM manager, on one project or as the BIM specialist in your bid. Not sure which group you are in? Write to us: 20 minutes is enough to find out. See BIM management.
Sources
Checked on 4 November 2026.
- VNĪ BIM requirements, version 2.0, section 3.1 on roles and duties
- Annotation to the amendment of Regulation No. 529, 23-TA-816
Author
Madars Siksna
Lead BIM specialist, Digitalyse
11 years in construction, from modelling for fabrication and structural design to BIM management and coordination on Rail Baltica. 2022–2023: BIM Project Manager at VAS “Valsts nekustamie īpašumi” (State Real Estate), with BIM requirements (EIR, BEP) for the state property portfolio and client-side BIM management on the New Riga Theatre and Riga Castle.