How BIM brings together citizens and planners at the virtual round table; [Wie bim bürger und planer am virtuellen roundtable zusammenbringt]

Abstract

This article examines how Building Information Modeling can bring citizens and planners together through a shared digital environment. Urban and spatial planning involves many different interests, and communication between planners, authorities, professionals, and citizens can be difficult when information is presented through conventional documents alone. BIM provides a structured digital representation of buildings and related information, while geospatial data adds an important geographic context. Bringing these elements together can create a more understandable basis for discussing planning proposals and their effects. The article considers the potential of virtual round-table environments to support communication and participation by allowing different stakeholders to explore and discuss digital planning information. Three-dimensional representations can make proposed changes easier to understand and can help users connect planning decisions with their surrounding environment. Such approaches may also support earlier feedback and more transparent planning processes. At the same time, successful digital participation requires accessible information, suitable interfaces, reliable data, and attention to the different technical abilities of users. The article highlights the potential of combining BIM, geodata, and digital communication to create more collaborative planning workflows. It presents the virtual round table as an example of how digital spatial technologies can support interaction between citizens and planners while contributing to a more connected and understandable planning process.