Common Data Environment for University Construction Projects: An ISO 19650-Compliant Information Management Framework

Abstract

Common Data Environments (CDEs) have become a cornerstone of information management in BIM-enabled construction projects and a key enabler of ISO 19650 implementation. Within the context of sustainable and Smart Construction, CDEs integrate design, construction, and operational information, supporting informed decision-making throughout the building lifecycle. However, their effectiveness depends not only on software capabilities but also on the configuration of processes, roles, permissions, workflows, and information structures. This paper proposes an ISO 19650-compliant CDE implementation framework for university construction projects. The study combines a literature review on CDEs, BIM/FM, HBIM, and information management with two university case studies: a new laboratory and educational building and a specialized facility integrated with a historic campus. Based on the findings, an eight-step implementation model was developed, covering information requirements, CDE structure, information states (WIP, Shared, Published, Archive), roles, metadata, workflows, site data integration, and information audits. A mapping matrix linking ISO 19650 requirements with CDE configuration elements and an issue management workflow are also presented. Exploratory findings from the two case studies indicate that a properly configured CDE can help reduce information-related risks, improve issue management, and enhance decision traceability; these results should be regarded as illustrative and context-dependent rather than statistically generalized. Although environmental impacts were not directly measured, improved information management may indirectly contribute to more efficient resource use and more sustainable university infrastructure management.