Why You Should Implement BIM: 6 Valid Reasons

2/18/2019

by Chloe Smith, Guest Contributor

A new standard in building and project design is making waves and it is called Building Information Modeling. For future convenience, we will refer it by its acronym BIM. It is transforming the way in which construction projects are done. What does this mean for us, the ones in charge behind such projects? It means better buildings overall, to put it simply. But there are many factors that go into it. And these are what we are going to go over in this article. Implementation of BIM can save us time, money, provide realistic models for all parties involved at every step of the way. Better construction process in better places will make this industry a much more profitable one in the future to come.

Saving time and effort
Each discipline or area of expertise creates its own model and then combines it in a composite, digital construction model. At each phase of the planning or construction, any and every interested party can add their two cents in real time. What we get is a very robust set of data that is made up of multiple models made into a composite one. Better than keeping the entire project in a single file. Digital modeling makes any redesign much faster, easier, painless, and inexpensive. BIM files are essentially a database. Many of the parts and features are pulled from an online catalog of models. All of these have their own attributes such as cost, size, usage, etc. These are therefore intelligent objects and can be used to automate steps, thus further hasten the process. In fact, any reduction in time and effort directly correlates to financial saving.

Communication is key
Digital modeling allows sharing and collaborating on a level that drawings do not. Cloud-based tools enable seamless collaboration across all fields and disciplines within a project. Teams can share project models and can coordinate their planning. All involved parties can have insight into the project no matter where they find themselves. Cloud access allows those same teams to take their offices to the field. Digital drawings and models can be reviewed on mobile devices. This way, project information is up to date at any point in time. BIM leaves very little room for miscommunication or error.

New cost estimation methods
Most architecture, engineering, and construction (which we will refer to as AEC in the future) firms will be using cost estimators. Earlier in the planning stages, they allow for a more cost-effective construction. Model-based cost estimating (also known as 5D BIM) was instrumental in pushing the BIM idea to the forefront of construction. Quantifying and applying costs is a time-consuming test when it was being done by hand and on a piece of paper. BIM tools automate this by allowing estimators to focus on higher value factors like construction assemblies and factoring risks.

Safety first
BIM is also very good at improving safety on site. These tools pinpoint hazards on the digital model itself. This means that these hazards do not get to become serious, real-world problems. They are eliminated earlier in the planning phase. By visualizing and planning site logistics ahead of time we avoid real physical risks. Risk analysis and safety evaluations help ensure safety in every step through project execution.

The fourth dimension
BIM tools do bring us the advantages of all three dimensions in its models. We used to make up plans on sheets of paper, making those models two-dimensional. But not that is a thing of the past. That is all fine and dandy, but these tools offer another very important dimension. Most frequently, time is considered the fourth dimension and it is very relevant for us here. What it allows is for work and material gathering to be known well in advance and easily changed if the need arises. Juggling all these factors can sometimes seem quite complicated. Luckily for us, there are plenty of companies that specialize in BIM like the reliable Cad Group, for example. Sometimes it is best to leave it to the professional to handle the logistics so we can do our own thing.

Maintaining control
BIM tools offer many aids such as autosave features and connections to project history. Autosave is pretty self-explanatory, it has saved our lives many times at our very own computer. The connection feature helps us avoid disastrous disappearances or corruption of files that could impact productivity.

These are just some of the benefits or incorporating BIM in our everyday business. It is the way forward and is making the entire process much more profitable and streamlined. The value of virtual pre-planning of any and all projects cannot be overstated. The advantages BIM offers are plenty and the sooner we adapt to this gem of modern technology, the sooner we will reap its benefits.

Author bio:

Chloe Smith is a business consultant for SEO Reseller Hub, a cycling enthusiast and a part-time writer always willing to share tidbits of advice. She believes that passion, courage and, above all, knowledge breed success. When she’s not working, she’s probably somewhere cuddled up with a good book, and a cup of lemongrass tea (or more honestly binge-watching the newest Netflix hit show).