What Is Building Information Modeling (BIM)?

Building information modeling (BIM) involves creating 3-dimensional digital models of buildings. In addition to visual representation, the software also allows data entry for different aspects of construction, including measurements, materials, and dependencies. 

BIM can support all aspects of a project. The data can be used for accurate cost estimation and labor and materials planning. It can also contain information vital to efficient building operation after construction. 

BIM software’s features can translate into cost and efficiency benefits. A study from Diponegoro University in Indonesia found BIM could cut project time by 50% and lower costs by 52.36% compared to traditional design, engineering, and project management techniques. The wealth of information leads to higher-quality constructions with improved longevity and quality. The models can also contain directions for maintenance and operations, ensuring long-term value.   

Here’s a closer look at the value of BIM and how companies can deploy it in their businesses. 

Benefits of BIM

BIM software offers advantages to different aspects of construction projects, including:

• Visualization: 3D BIM models are realistic digital representations of the building, allowing designers to visualize the building plans without a physical model. 
• Collaboration: BIM plans are a repository for information relevant to design, engineering, materials usage, and cost estimation. Professionals can all add input to the project on the same files.
• Accurate estimates: With complete plans in one place, it’s easier to make accurate cost estimates and access the detailed information necessary for precise takeoff estimations. Specialists, like quantity surveyors, can have access to all variables affecting their estimates.  

BIM can also improve project management, as the data gained through modeling makes scheduling and coordination easier. Data can be continually added too, so the model can evolve as the project progresses. 

How Does BIM Work?

BIM software has different components that support each other, including: 

• The 3D modeling component allows designers to build realistic digital versions of buildings. 
• Data integration lets users add information about dimensions, materials, and special requirements into the visualized plans. 
• Unified file formats make it possible for different professionals to collaborate, add data, and make comments on the plans. 
• Information from the models can populate forms used for takeoff calculations and cost estimates.

Popular BIM tools often have cloud-based licensing options, allowing for easy collaboration and access wherever internet connectivity is available.

Steps in the BIM Process

The steps for building information modeling can vary depending on the nature of the project and workflow preferences. However, most fundamental steps occur in a specific order for projects. 

• Conceptual design defines how the building will look and the features it will have. 
• Technical or schematic design involves refining broad concepts into a workable design with details like measurements and relationships between different components. 
• Design development includes adding details like mechanical, electric, and plumbing (MEP) systems to the design. 
• The finalized construction documents, including necessary data and details, are what the construction contractors will use to build the structure. This step may include getting official approval from a client or stakeholders. 

There is typically a round of feedback from stakeholders and professionals after each step.  After the finalization, the model’s data outputs can assist with cost and materials estimates. 

BIM Best Practices

To get the most out of its BIM software, your company can adhere to the following practices:

• Standardization of formats, measurements, and component names is essential for organizing the data included in the model.
• Ensure collaborators understand how to use the software and provide training for those who do not. 
• Create a system to track changes and make updates to the model. 
• Make a process for stakeholder review of each design iteration and establish criteria for approval. 

It’s also important to ensure the data from the BIM is compatible with software tools, like cost estimation programs. 

Common Challenges and Mistakes

BIM can be a powerful tool. However, common pitfalls can make it less effective and magnify mistakes. 

• Information and design overload occurs when unnecessary details are added to the model. This can slow performance and make it difficult to find relevant information when needed. The project plan should call for only relevant information. 
• Compatibility problems with other software can make it difficult to benefit from the information produced by the BIM software. Ensure other tools like takeoff software can use the BIM program’s data. 
• A lack of training can make it difficult for specialists to contribute data and details to the project, so contributors should be educated on how to use the software correctly. 

Cybersecurity issues could also arise, especially if you have many users accessing the model in the cloud. You need to control access to the software and ensure all users follow the best security practices. 

BIM by Industry

BIM is used by architects, engineers, and designers working on residential, commercial, and industrial projects. It can also be used in a variety of construction industries.

• In residential projects, BIM can help with 3D visualization for stakeholders or homeowners who don’t understand 2D plans. Though some think BIM isn’t necessary due to the relative simplicity of residential projects, the information is useful for managing smaller budgets. 
• In commercial constructions, BIM can help organize and manage complex systems. Construction managers can add and access information for building various systems, from HVAC to plumbing, in one place. Also, with this data, they can calculate full project time and costs and define dependencies easily. 
• For industrial projects, models can include details about piping, electrical, or equipment requirements. The software can also incorporate safety regulations into the planning process. 

In all industries, the data from BIM can inform cost and quantity estimates during the planning stages of the project. 

The Future of BIM

BIM software continues to evolve. Virtual reality, when combined with BIM designs, can improve visualization. Integrated data analytics programs can assess the information in the model and provide insights about energy use, safety, or operations costs. 

Finally, internet of Things (IoT) sensors can provide real-time data during and after the project. This information allows updates that can turn the model into a project tracking and building management tool. 

BIM and AI in the Construction Industry

One of the biggest advances in BIM involves artificial intelligence (AI). AI can automate many of the design tasks in BIM. For instance, it can automatically build components following a set of rules defined by the designer. 

AI can also assist in designs. It can use algorithms to help place components in a way that is both structurally sound and satisfies the design concept. The precise design ensures accurate cost estimates during takeoff.  

Helpful BIM Tools and Software

Revitzo is a popular professional building information modeling software. You can integrate these tools into your workflow to add features to your overall design and planning processes: 

• Takeoff software can use BIM data to make accurate cost estimates. 
• Cloud-based data storage platforms save information from each project in an accessible location for easy access. 
• Simulation programs like Navisworks can find potential clashes in design and create a model to project the timeline for building completion. 

BIM software can merge design with construction data and planning. You can use models alongside takeoff software to ensure effective construction project planning and accurate cost and quantity estimates.