Digital Model–Based Project Development and Delivery: A Guide for Quality Management (2025)
Chapter: Summary
SUMMARY
Digital Model–Based Project Development and Delivery: A Guide for Quality Management
The shift to 3D model–based project delivery is redefining how agencies communicate, coordinate, review, and document project details during design. Over the past decade, it has become common practice to deliver 3D engineered models as supplemental information for construction, but more state departments of transportation (DOTs) are starting to release 3D model–based information as the primary construction contract document (i.e., Model as the Legal Document). However, formal quality management processes have remained paper or PDF based.
One challenge with quality control of 3D models is reviewing information in a dynamic 3D environment and documenting comments seen on a screen. Reviewers, such as design managers, are typically responsible for design quality management but may lack the skill sets to complete their tasks in a 3D model environment. Engineers who are well-versed in 3D modeling software may have learned to review models as an organic part of the project development process. But no standard procedures have been published that systematize documentation of model-based design reviews, including the review of key design elements, engineering calculations, estimated quantities, and interdisciplinary coordination. This guide will provide knowledge and background where experience is missing so agencies can implement a quality management system that facilitates project delivery.
The purpose of a quality management process goes beyond the need for individuals to feel comfortable reviewing designs in a 3D environment. The quality management process is a planned and systematic set of actions that provide confidence that the project will meet its performance objectives and be developed to meet the standard of care. During design, project teams continuously assess the quality of design intent based on data collected about existing conditions (e.g., subsurface utilities, subsurface characterization, existing structure condition, and survey). Project development and delivery is a complex operation, involving many people across various disciplines using multiple technologies. Introducing new processes creates the potential for additional human error and technology issues, largely because reviewers lack familiarity with weak points in the process.
Quality management is a risk management tool that helps project teams deliver a safe, constructible, and cost-effective product that fits the project scope. Engineering is regulated at the state level and guided by a code of ethics, which addresses the standard of care for professional practice. In statutes, the standard of care establishes the test for professional negligence. The standard of care is typically defined as what a reasonably careful professional engineer would have used in similar circumstances.
State DOTs document minimum standards of practice as manuals, guidelines, checklists, and other policy documents. This guide can serve as a national reference for quality assurance with 3D model–based project delivery, and it provides a consistent, repeatable, and traceable quality management process that is equal to or better than traditional paper-based processes. State DOTs and representatives can use this guide to update their policies and standard practices, removing much uncertainty about liability exposure and accelerating digital transformation of project delivery.
