Building Information Modeling (BIM) Basics
Building Information Modeling (BIM) has rapidly become a critical competency across the U.S. architecture, engineering, construction, and facility management sectors. Federal agencies, state departments of transportation, and an increasing number of private owners now encourage or require BIM deliverables to improve project coordination, reduce risk, and support lifecycle asset management. As a result, BIM proficiency is becoming a key differentiator for teams competing for U.S. public and private contracts.
This eLearning course provides a flexible, accessible introduction to the fundamentals of BIM—perfect for anyone looking to build foundational knowledge at their own pace from any location. Through engaging web‑based modules, short video lessons, and interactive exercises, you will gain a clear understanding of how BIM processes, digital collaboration, and data-driven workflows support modern project delivery.
BIM examples help bridge the gap between theory and practice. Integrated knowledge checks reinforce learning and allow you to track your progress throughout the course.While the program is globally aligned with recognized BIM frameworks, the curriculum reflects core principles found in standards such as ISO 19650, which many U.S. organizations increasingly reference to guide their information management practices.Whether you’re entering the industry or aiming to enhance your digital construction skills, this training equips you with the essential understanding needed to successfully participate in BIM-enabled projects.
Successful participants in this digital self-paced course will:
- Acquire comprehensive knowledge of the BIM method.
- Learn BIM flexibly in terms of time and location via e-learning – interactively and with many real BIM examples.
- Increase competence with regard to the information processing of building data over the entire life cycle.
- Managing directors, managers, builders, contractors, architects, structural engineers, construction product manufacturers
- Specialist planners, surveyors, project managers, project developers, asset, property and facility managers
- In-house technicians and craftsmen
- Beginners who check and prepare a BIM implementation in the company
- BIM managers from companies
- Module 1: Basic understanding of BIM (running time approx. 60 minutes)
- Development and background
- Definition of terms, history of BIM implementation and initiatives
- BIM influencing factors, opportunities and risks
- Module 2: BIM use cases and tools (running time approx. 45 minutes)
- Basics of application
- Use cases and tools for planning, execution and operation
- Opportunities and risks
- Module 3: Coordination and data exchange (running time approx. 45 minutes)
- Roles and responsibilities
- Data exchange
- Model coordination
- Module 4: Object-oriented model construction (running time approx. 45 minutes)
- Basics of Object-Oriented Modeling
- Model creation
- Documentation
- Module 5: BIM implementation (running time approx. 60 minutes)
- BIM implementation in the company
- BIM implementation in the project
- BIM documents: Client Information Requirements (AEOI), BIM Resolution Plan (BAP)
- Module 6: Standards and guidelines (running time approx. 45 minutes)
- Structure and standardization
- National level: VDI guideline 2552, DIN, GEFMA guideline
- European and international level
- BIM Initiatives
- Module 7: Communication in BIM projects (running time approx. 45 minutes)
- Shared Data Environment (CDE)
- Communication during planning, execution and operation
- Module 8: Legal aspects and outlook (running time approx. 45 minutes)
- Tendering and awarding of contracts
- Contracts
- Performance profiles and remuneration
- Liability and copyright
- View
Building Information Modeling and BIM competence is also currently becoming one of the most relevant eligibility criteria for tenders. The competitiveness of companies in the construction and real estate industry will in the future depend heavily on knowledge of BIM-compliant work.
With this e-learning, you can easily acquire the basics of the BIM method online – regardless of location and flexibly in terms of time through web-based training and video sequences. Short, interactive learning sections and a clearly structured modular structure make it easy for you. With the integrated knowledge tests, you can immediately check your newly acquired knowledge and repeat learning units if necessary. A high degree of practical relevance is ensured by real BIM examples. The training covers the curriculum according to VDI guideline 2552 sheet 8.1 and is based on DIN EN ISO 19650, published in 2019.
1. Gain Comprehensive Foundational BIM Knowledge
Participants acquire a solid understanding of Building Information Modeling—its concepts, terminology, history, use cases, and standards. This gives them a strong baseline to work confidently in BIM‑enabled projects.
2. Increase Professional Competitiveness
Since BIM competence is becoming a key eligibility criterion for tenders and a differentiator in the construction and real‑estate industries, this course helps participants strengthen their competitiveness for roles, projects, and contracts.
3. Learn Flexibly at Your Own Pace
The course is 100% self‑paced and accessible from any location, making it ideal for busy professionals or learners who need time flexibility. Short modules, videos, and interactive segments support efficient learning.
4. Build Practical, Real‑World BIM Understanding
Real BIM examples and scenario‑based explanations help bridge theory and practice, giving participants a clearer view of how BIM works across planning, construction, and operations.
5. Strengthen Information Management Skills Across the Building Lifecycle
Participants learn how to manage and process building data—from planning to operation—aligned with industry standards like ISO 19650 and VDI 2552.
6. Improve Collaboration and Digital Coordination Skills
Modules teach participants how to work within Shared Data Environments (CDE), coordinate models, understand roles and responsibilities, and communicate effectively in BIM‑enabled teams.
7. Understand BIM Implementation Requirements
Learners explore how BIM is implemented at both company level and project level, including essential documents like:
Client Information Requirements (AEOI)
BIM Execution Plans (BAP)
8. Learn About Legal, Contractual & Tendering Aspects
Participants gain insight into BIM‑related requirements in contracts, liabilities, performance profiles, and tendering—knowledge increasingly required across global markets.
9. Verify Learning Through Knowledge Checks
Integrated assessments reinforce key concepts and help learners track progress and retention throughout the course.
10. Earn a Recognized Certificate from TÜV SÜD Academy
Upon completion, participants receive proof of training—useful for CVs, professional development records, and demonstrating competency to employers or clients.
The E-learning consists of a total of 8 modules. The learner can go through this in a self-paced sequence. BIM Basics – Online Training contains a varied format mix of videos, WBT modules and podcasts. Within the learning units, the learner has the opportunity to review his acquired knowledge in short quizzes.
Certificate of the TÜV SÜD Academy.
System requirements
Supported browsers include:
- Chrome
- Safari
- Internet Explorer
- Firefox
Additional requirements include:
- A high-speed internet connection will provide best results.
- An email address is required to register for courses.
- Microsoft Media Player or equivalent is needed to play audio and video files.
- Flash Player is used for content and interactive learning. If necessary download and install Flash Player to ensure proper operation of course content.
What is included with the course?
Each course will include access to e-learning content, quizzes, and proof of completion. Additional resources may also be included, and this will vary by course.
Can I pause the course and log in to it anytime?
Certainly. The course allows the learner to take a break and return to it within the defined access period (typically 365 days).
Are there any quizzes in the middle of the course?
Our e-learning courses are designed to promote interaction between learner and content and often include quizzes. Quizzes are designed to help understand where successful learning has been achieved, and where opportunities for additional review exist.
Can I get a refund if I cancel my enrollment?
Refunds cannot be provided once a course is activated. Please be sure to review course information prior to activation.
What happens if I don’t finish the course within the access period?
The standard access period is 365 days to allow sufficient time to complete your course.
If you have questions, or require assistance, you may reach us at [email protected]
To learn more about TÜV SÜD, please click here.
