Building Information Modeling is more than just 3D pictures and as-built models – it is a well-executed process that allows all project stake holders to deliver buildings more efficiently. Design and Build professionals use shared building information models to realize a highly coordinated design build process. There are five key benefits that come to mind when considering how BIM processes create synergy between design and construction
The BIM Process – How it works
3D Modeling
A virtual model of the project is constructed using BIM that is shared amongst all project stakeholders. During the design phase with collaboration from all parties – owner, architect, consultants, GC, subcontractors, fabricators, material suppliers
Trade Management & Coordination
Incorporating the BIM process allows for the full coordination of various subcontractor’s designs and helps prevent conflict and clashes between those designs.
BIM Process = Better Coordination = More Precise Construction Documentation
Shop drawings are fabrication drawings with detailed plans that translate design intent. When shop drawings are derived from coordinated building information models, the fabrication process is seamless
The Top 5 Benefits of BIM
1. Cost and Resource Savings
Through the BIM process, project stakeholders can gather reliable construction estimates long before the building phase begins. Using BIM in your planning helps to bring down the cost of materials, material shipping, shipping prefabricated or modular pieces and labor.
2. More project efficiency and shorter project lifecycles
A faster construction process typically means that less money was spent on the project overall. An earlier completed project also means that the building owner can begin to realize returns earlier. Design and construction are both expedited when using BIM processes.
3. Improved Communications
As a shared resource amongst all project participants, BIM ensures that everyone is referencing the same, most up to date information. This centralized model ensures that coordination efforts between trades can be conducted with more confidence. It also ensures that the actual construction process is conducted more safely, as the current field conditions and building steps can be clearly recorded in BIM.
4. Opportunities for Prefabrication
BIM allows for the creation of production models that can be prefabricated off-site. Modular pieces for architecture can also be created and brought on-site knowing that they will make for a perfect fit. With an understanding of 3D space and any potentially existing connections through BIM, designers can create highly developed models for prefabricated fittings and systems. This helps to create a faster, safer and more affordable installation process
5. Higher Quality Results
Through the efficiencies that BIM creates in the design build process, the quality of the physical construction is also improved. Less physical changes make for a high-quality structure, and the end result will look as expected per the initial visualization presented with BIM at the start of the project. Designers and builders use BIM to visualize multiple aspects of the project as follows:
3D. Height, width, length, depth
4D. Time taken to complete design element
5D. Cost to complete a design element
6D. Energy Measurement and Environmental impact
7D. Facility Management forecasting through the structure’s lifecycle
Why you should partner with a BIM Construction Expert
It is important to remember that BIM is a process rather than just a 3D visualization product. In order to get the full benefit of BIM in your project, it is important to partner with a BIM manager who can accomplish the following
- Create a custom BIM Execution Plan for your project
- Create project standards (naming conventions, software requirements, model requirements, manage shared file repository, coordination hierarchy)
- Manage an ongoing coordination process and manage tasks between project participants