BIM

WHAT IS BIM

"Building information modeling (BIM) is the foundation of digital transformation in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry"

BIM is an acronym for Building Information Modeling or Building Information Management. It is a highly collaborative process that allows architects, engineers, real estate developers, contractors, manufacturers, and other construction professionals to plan, design, and construct a structure or building within one 3D model.

BIM contains not only the model elements but the vast amounts of information that make up the project, as well as the process of exchanging that information with other parties involved. BIM workflows allow for a dynamic and synchronized approach to project management.

BIM for Architects

BIM
BENEFITS FOR ARCHITECTS

  1. Time Efficiency

BIM helps the architects to deliver the designs in a reduced period compared to traditional ways of designing. The BIM process enable the architects to fully control over the designs with better outcomes and less time. When you design a plain line in BIM, a 3D element is automatically created, which provides a firm foundation to the designs with minimal effort. BIM empowers architects to commit to tight deadlines and finish the work within deadlines.

  1. Enhanced Designs

BIM allows the architects to enhance the design of the project with its advanced features. With the help of BIM, the whole design team can work together with better collaboration and communication resulting in better results. It also provides tools such as clash detection to assist architects in reducing errors. Such a feature helps them in the early identification of design flaws. Resulting in saving time and extra efforts of the whole team.

  1. Collaborative Environment

The biggest advantage that BIM assists architects is the amazing collaborative environment it provides. The collaborative environment allows better communication between the whole design team, resulting in better outcome. Consistent information models throughout the design process of the project helps every architect to set the standards for each project, resulting in standardized outcomes.

  1. Reduced Errors and Rework

Error is inevitable by humans but it can be reduced to a certain extent with the involvement of technology in it. The tools in BIM leave no place for human errors. The tools such as clash detection help architects to identify mistakes and rectify them in time. Less errors means less rework.

  1. Greater Transparency

With the advanced 3D visuals by the architects, it becomes easier for the entire team to understand the design easily. The design on which the architects are working can be viewed by each team member making the project transparent. Since a good design is the result of more inputs from all the stakeholders, thus transparency allows the team members to give their inputs at each stage. As a result, the final design is very close to the client’s expectations. BIM makes it easy for the architects to make their point easily understood by the team.

  1. Accessibility Everywhere

BIM provides cloud integration to the stakeholders. With the help of cloud integration, all the information, data, and latest progress on the project is updated on the cloud. Therefore, the information can be accessed from any location. Accessibility features help architects to save a lot of time and manual efforts.

  1. Detailed Output

The designs produced using the BIM are detailed. It allows the architects to take care of every detail that is necessary in creating an outstanding outcome. These details help to monitor the overall design throughout the process. The detailed outcome of the design brings more satisfaction to the client and better understanding to the rest of the team. Ultimately easing the work of the architects

BIM OUTSOURCING
BENEFITS FOR ARCHITECTS

  1. Builds Credibility

BIM improves efficiency by facilitating stakeholder collaboration. Outsourcing BIM requirements of smaller businesses brings the advantage of operating more efficiently and effectively to gain client trust, resulting in more projects and faster growth.

  1. Better Cost Control

 Outsourcing has proven to be the best method when there are urgent requirements of experienced BIM resources within a short period. By outsourcing, we can cut down your cost in hiring, software expenses, and the additional overheads associated.

  1. Focus on more value-add tasks

Apart from money, outsourcing brings time benefits by changing your focus to tasks with higher priority. When non-technical tasks like BIM drafting and BIM modeling are outsourced, companies can focus more on technical tasks like design and engineering and thereby improve efficiency and client service.

  1. Experiment on various strategies

Outsourcing helps business owners to experiment with new business strategies or try out new business without incurring significant risks associated with in-house initiatives. For example, a new service sector or a new product can be launched without incurring escalating resource or infrastructure expenditures.

BIM Dimensions

BIM Dimensions can be defined as the levels of information that contain within a BIM Data model. Each dimension refers to a specific type of information contained in a BIM model. As per the requirements and complexity of the project these dimensions are added. Every time an extra set of information is added to the process, an additional layer of dimension is added.

3D

Shared Information Model

4D

Construction Sequencing

5D

Cost

6D

Facility Management

7D

Sustainability

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BIM Level of Development (LOD)

Level of Development is the degree to which the components’ specification, geometry, and attached information have been thought through – the degree to which project team members may depend on the information when using the model. LOD specification allows professionals in the industry to articulate how an element’s geometry and associated information has evolved throughout the entire process. The LOD specification helps designers define the inherent characteristics of the elements in a model at different stages of development. Using LOD, designers and engineers can communicate with other professionals who will be using the model further about the usability and limitations of a model.

LOD 100 represents the conceptual design stage in BIM. It involves basic geometric representations, indicating the general shape, size, and orientation of elements within the model. The Model Element may be graphically represented in the model with a symbol or other generic representation. Any information derived from LOD 100 elements must be considered approximate.

LOD 200 corresponds to the schematic design phase in BIM. It entails more detailed geometry with approximate quantities, sizes, shapes, and locations of elements within the model. The Model Element is graphically represented within the model as a generic system, object, or assembly with approximate quantities, size, shape, location, and orientation. Any information derived from LOD 200 elements must be considered approximate.

LOD 300 denotes the design development stage in BIM. It involves accurate geometry with specific quantities, sizes, shapes, and locations of elements within the model, suitable for coordination. The Model Element is graphically represented within the model as a specific system, object or assembly in terms of quantity, size, shape, location, and orientation. Non-graphic information may also be attached to the Model Element. The project origin is defined and the element is located accurately with respect to the project origin.

LOD 350 is when the Model Element is graphically represented within the model as a specific system, object, or assembly in terms of quantity, size, shape, location, orientation, and interfaces with other building systems. Non-graphic information may also be attached to the Model Element. 

LOD 400 refers to the construction documentation phase in BIM. It includes accurate geometry with detailed information necessary for fabrication and construction purposes. The Model Element is graphically represented within the model as a specific system, object or assembly in terms of size, shape, location, quantity, and orientation with detailing, fabrication, assembly, and installation information. Non-graphic information may also be attached to the Model Element.

LOD 500 signifies the as-built phase in BIM. It represents the real-world physical characteristics and arrangement of elements within the model, furnishing accurate geometry and comprehensive information post-construction. The Model Element is a field verified representation in terms of size, shape, location, quantity, and orientation. Non-graphic information may also be attached to the Model Elements.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is BIM (Building Information Modeling)?

BIM, or Building Information Modeling, is an integrated process that relies on coordinated and reliable information. It goes beyond just 3D CAD or a new technology application; it's about creating coordinated digital design information and documentation. With BIM, you can predict performance, appearance, and cost, ultimately delivering projects faster, more economically, and with reduced environmental impact. At its core, BIM ensures that there's always a single source of truth throughout the project lifecycle. It fosters value-creating collaboration by utilizing shared 3D models and intelligent, structured data. In essence, BIM is not a future concept—it's here and now, revolutionizing how we approach construction projects.

Is BIM just a 3D model?

There is a misconception within the industry that the building information model is a single 3D file, filled with information. In fact, BIM encompasses a variety of files and components. It includes graphical models that evolve from conceptual shapes into detailed 3D models with linked 2D elements. Additionally, BIM incorporates non-graphical data like properties, specifications, and cost information, often managed in databases. Documentation, such as floor plans and schedules, is also part of the BIM. Together, these elements form the comprehensive Building Information Model, essential for both project development and ongoing asset management.

What are the primary advantages of adopting BIM?

Adopting BIM offers several key benefits. Firstly, it enhances collaboration among project stakeholders, leading to improved communication and coordination. Secondly, BIM enables better visualization, allowing stakeholders to understand complex design concepts more intuitively.

When beginning their BIM journey, contractors often encounter a range of initial applications. Here are some typical early uses frequently observed as they delve into BIM exploration:
  • Scope Clarification
  • Partial Trade Coordination
  • Collision Detection/Avoidance
  • Design Validation
  • Construction Sequencing Planning/Phasing Plans/Logistics
  • Marketing Presentations
  • Options Analysis
  • Walk-throughs and Fly-throughs
  • Virtual Mock-Ups

What is meant by dimensions in BIM?

In BIM, we deal with multiple dimensions. incorporating aspects such as 2D, 3D, 4D, and 5D. Each dimension adds unique aspects to project management and planning in the construction industry. These dimensions work together to enhance project planning and management, enabling stakeholders to visualize, schedule, and estimate costs effectively.

What is openBIM and Industry Foundation Classes (IFC)?

OpenBIM facilitates collaborative design through open standards, enabling seamless information exchange among various software tools. It promotes data sharing and interoperability, fostering innovation in the construction industry. Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) serve as an open data format, ensuring comprehensive data exchanges without loss of information, thus enhancing interoperability among different software tools.

What are Employer's Information Requirements (EIR)?

Employer's Information Requirements (EIR) outline the specific information that the client or employer needs from a construction project. These requirements include details on project objectives, deliverables, standards, and desired outcomes regarding information management and exchange throughout the project lifecycle. Essentially, EIR serves as a roadmap for how information will be managed, structured, and delivered to meet the client's needs and expectations.

What are BIM Execution Plans (BEPs)?

BIM Execution Plans (BEPs) are crucial documents drafted at the initiation of a project, detailing the management and exchange of project information throughout its lifecycle. Divided into pre-contract and post-contract phases, BEPs outline project objectives, milestones, strategies for information delivery, and responsibilities within the supply chain. They ensure alignment with Employer's Information Requirements (EIR) and facilitate seamless collaboration among project stakeholders.

What are the consequences of not utilizing a BIM execution plan?

Failing to utilize a BIM execution plan means businesses and project teams will continue creating local, non-reusable, and non-interoperable solutions repeatedly. This results in prolonged time-to-market for new products and services due to inefficient sharing of ideas and results among collaborating parties.

Moreover, designs may contain more errors and omissions than necessary, leading to costly corrections during construction. Redundant data entry becomes prevalent, requiring information to be inputted multiple times instead of being utilized efficiently.

Additionally, the absence of comprehensive performance insights during the design phase may result in increased resource consumption throughout the facility's lifecycle. This could lead to decreased efficiency due to overlooked functional and environmental constraints that could have been addressed during pre-construction testing.

What does LOD (Level of Development) mean?

LOD, or Level of Development, refers to the degree of detail and accuracy of a BIM model at different stages of a project. In the UK, LOD levels are commonly categorized as LOD 100, 200, 300, 400, and 500. Each level represents increasing detail, from conceptual to highly detailed models suitable for fabrication and construction.

What is a Common Data Environment (CDE)?

A Common Data Environment (CDE) is a centralized digital platform where project teams collaborate and manage project information throughout the construction lifecycle. It includes areas for work in progress, shared data, and archived records, with defined gateways between them. Utilizing standardized naming and revision conventions, the CDE ensures efficient information exchange and version control among stakeholders. For example, a CDE could consist of folders on an extranet or a cloud-based platform like BIM 360 where approved files are stored and accessed by authorized team members.

What is COBie?

COBie, short for Construction Operation Building information exchange, is a structured method for capturing non-graphical data from the information model. It enables the exchange of information between various phases of the construction lifecycle, including design, construction, and maintenance. COBie facilitates standardized data sharing among different software tools and supports efficient communication and collaboration throughout the project.

What are the benefits of BIM for the construction industry?

By utilizing BIM, you can utilize time schedule simulations, operational scenarios, and simulated lifecycle costs to optimize design and construction processes, thereby diminishing the expenses associated with decades of cost-intensive operations. Additionally, a digital prototype enhances the functionality of your building while simultaneously curbing capital expenditure (CAPEX) and operating expenses (OPEX).

Those who employ BIM universally report uncovering a plethora of new benefits. Here are just a few examples:
  • BIM assists with scoping during bidding and purchasing.
  • It facilitates reviewing portions of the scope for analyses such as value engineering.
  • BIM aids in coordinating construction sequencing, even for two trades.
  • It enables the demonstration of project approaches during marketing presentations.
  • With BIM, identifying collisions such as ductwork running into structural members becomes possible.
  • The ability to visualize what is to be built in a simulated environment is enhanced.
  • BIM leads to fewer errors and corrections in the field.
  • There's a higher reliability of expected field conditions, allowing for more prefabrication of materials offsite, usually at a higher quality and lower cost.
  • BIM allows for more "what-if" scenarios, such as examining various sequencing options, site logistics, hoisting alternatives, cost, etc.
  • It enables non-technical individuals like clients and users to visualize the end product.
  • BIM is particularly beneficial for complex buildings with a high density of technical infrastructure, such as hospitals, laboratories, airports, and residential projects with sophisticated architecture. It's also beneficial for large linear projects like railroads and pipeline projects.
  • BIM capabilities are increasingly becoming a key criterion in project selection for both designers and builders, driving its importance in the construction industry forward.

Is it feasible to integrate BIM into ongoing construction projects?

Yes, integrating BIM into ongoing construction projects is feasible and beneficial. While it may require adjustments to existing workflows and collaboration among project stakeholders, BIM can enhance project efficiency, coordination, and communication. By harnessing BIM tools and digitalizing project information, teams can streamline processes, identify and resolve conflicts early, and improve decision-making, ultimately leading to better project outcomes.

What types of projects are most suitable for BIM implementation?

All projects that involve complex designs, tight schedules, large teams, and high coordination requirements are most suitable for BIM implementation. Examples include large-scale infrastructure projects, commercial buildings, healthcare facilities, and educational institutions. BIM's ability to enhance collaboration, detect clashes, and improve project visualization makes it particularly beneficial for such projects.

Is BIM only for large-scale projects?

No, BIM is not exclusive to large-scale projects. While it's true that BIM offers significant advantages for complex and sizable constructions, it can be equally beneficial for small to medium-sized projects. Even smaller projects can benefit from BIM's ability to streamline processes, improve collaboration, reduce errors, and enhance project efficiency. BIM's scalability allows it to be adapted to projects of various sizes and complexities, making it a valuable tool across the construction industry spectrum.

What are the common obstacles to adopting BIM in the industry?

Some common obstacles to adopting BIM in the industry include initial investment costs, resistance to change from traditional workflows, lack of expertise and training, interoperability issues between software platforms, and the need for standardized processes and protocols. Additionally, concerns about data security and privacy may also hinder BIM adoption. Overcoming these challenges often requires a strategic approach that addresses both technological and cultural barriers within organizations. BIM Outsourcing can provide tailored solutions to help overcome these obstacles and facilitate a smoother transition to BIM adoption.

What specific challenges might arise during BIM implementation?

Some specific challenges during BIM implementation include integrating new technology with existing workflows, ensuring adequate training and skill development for staff, addressing interoperability issues between different software platforms, managing the initial investment costs, maintaining data consistency and accuracy throughout the project lifecycle, and overcoming resistance to change from traditional methods. These challenges require careful planning, stakeholder engagement, and a strategic approach to effectively navigate the transition to BIM. BIM Outsourcing can offer customized solutions to tackle these hurdles and ease the transition to BIM adoption.

What are the key factors that impact the cost of implementing BIM?

Understanding the cost of BIM modeling involves considering various factors such as project scale, complexity, time requirements, level of detail, building type, quality standards, coordination needs, and project information. Pricing methods can vary, including price per square area, per hour, or lump sum. Each method has its pros and cons, but it's crucial to ensure that key factors like time, detail level, and quality are adequately addressed in any pricing approach.

What are the key software tools required for successful BIM implementation?

For MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) aspects, essential software tools include Revit MEP or AutoCAD MEP for modeling and design. Architectural and structural aspects typically utilize software like Revit Architecture, Revit Structure, or Tekla Structures for modeling and analysis. Navisworks is crucial for clash detection and coordination across all disciplines. Collaboration platforms such as BIM 360 or Trimble Connect are also essential for project coordination.

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