Cost management

Creating a 4D and a 5D BIM model can be done in BEXEL Manager in various ways with the help of Schedule and Cost Editor to create a classification optimal for the project. The recommended workflow represents a more advanced use of BEXEL Manager and integrates cost and schedule enabling a real 5D BIM simulation, without the need to manually connect cost and schedule data. This workflow will be elaborated separately in Smart 4D and 5D BIM management.

This section will explain how to create a Cost classification in BEXEL Manager and link it with elements of the BIM model.

Cost Classification in BEXEL Manager can be created through four different workflows:

• It could be created entirely from scratch by creating a blank Cost Classification in Bexel Manager Cost Editor and manually populating it by creating each Classification and Cost Item.

• Cost Classification is created in an Excel spreadsheet and imported into Bexel Manager. Classification and Cost items are also manually created in MS Excel and then imported to Bexel Manager.
• Cost Classification is created automatically based on previously defined CBS. In this case, a complete Cost Classification with all Classification and Cost Items is created and could be further adjusted.
• Cost Classification is created automatically based on previously defined QTO. In this case, a complete Cost Classification with all Classification and Cost Items is created and could be further adjusted.

Different workflows can be used depending on available information, user preferences or specific needs of a project. The first two workflows allow easier integration of existing Cost databases and coding standards. In contrast, the third and fourth workflows are considered more advanced uses of software since they enable high automation of the Cost Classification creation process.