If you’ve worked in the UK construction industry anytime in the last decade, chances are you’ve come across terms like BIM Level 2, the UK BIM Framework, and ISO 19650. But what’s the current terminology, and where does government policy stand today?

From BIM Level 2 to the Information Management Initiative

In 2016, the UK government made BIM Level 2 mandatory on all centrally funded public projects. This move aimed to improve coordination, reduce waste, and encourage better use of digital information through model-based delivery and defined standards.

Over time, it became clear that 3D models alone were not enough. Many teams delivered geometry, but the information behind it was often inconsistent or not useful for long-term asset management.

A Shift Toward Whole-Life Information Management

To address this, the UK government introduced a broader approach. Today, the focus is on the Information Management Initiative (IMI), part of the TIP Roadmap to 2030. The IMI promotes better planning, structuring, and delivery of information throughout the full lifecycle of a built asset, using ISO 19650 as the core standard.

What about the UK BIM Framework? It is still in active use. It provides guidance on how to apply ISO 19650 in practice. But it is no longer the main government policy. That role now belongs to the IMI.

In Summary:

• BIM Level 2 introduced the initial mandate for structured data and collaboration.

• The UK BIM Framework provided the practical tools to support implementation.

• The Information Management Initiative is now leading policy on digital delivery.

Why It Matters

This shift reflects a more mature understanding of digital delivery. The industry is now focusing on information that adds value throughout an asset’s life, not just during design and construction.