Things used to move slowly in the construction industry. But not anymore. There has been increased demand for new advancements, leading to innovation and cutting-edge trends. More than anything else, modern construction is impacted by the Building Information Modeling (BIM) revolution.
Construction projects today are much more efficient, thanks to BIM technology, which reduces waste, elevates quality, and improves efficiency.
What is BIM?
Building Information Modeling (BIM) is the DNA cord that links technology, processes, and people for better holistic outcomes in the construction and building industry.
BIM modeling involves the comprehensive creation and management of information about a built asset. It is a method of integrating structured, multi-disciplinary data into an asset’s lifecycle, from design to construction to operations, built on an intelligent model and powered by the cloud.
What is the Significance of BIM?
BIM technology aids in coordinating, planning, designing, and constructing precise and accurate data. Budgets, schedules, and feasibility are all helped by it. Additionally, it plays a role in standardizing data exchanged between project participants–whether at a desk or out in the field.
It assists with identifying the required amounts, parts, and types of materials. Besides facility management, it is also helpful for asset management and predictive maintenance.
Speculation on different scenarios is made easier by the rapid exchange of design information, allowing for more iterations of the structure, engineering system, and architecture.
Construction projects tend to cost less overall if they are completed quicker. The quicker you can use a space, the faster you can see a return on your investment.
A client may also notice an improvement in build quality through BIM. The use of BIM results in more detailed and accurate calculations and models, improving the quality of the structure.
In addition to imagining how a building will look and behave in its finished state, architects also get to drill down to details such as how artificial and natural elements will interact in the structure.
After the building is completed, the model can run preemptive maintenance and repair decisions to assist the facilities management team.
What Are the Benefits of BIM?
Improves the bidding process – Building owners can scrutinize bids accurately and fairly with BIM models that include project 3D models of all structural and MEP systems. Thus, the actual cost of the building materials is used in determining the final bid price.
Saves building costs and resources – Construction cost estimates are one of the critical benefits of BIM. This can be provided well before construction starts. BIM software can help architects estimate costs related to:
- Materials
- Shipping
- Labor
A better way to communicate – A project can benefit from better communication between the architect, contractors, and other stakeholders. With BIM, all relevant information, including estimates, models, and design notes, is stored in a central location accessible to every person involved.
Reduces carbon emissions – Sustainability is a priority for building owners today. By replacing 2D drawings with live 3D projections, construction is far more accurate. A pre-bid plan that is accurate will have a higher likelihood of matching the final budget, and material waste can be drastically reduced.
By reducing energy and resources, the travel time involved in obtaining building materials will be reduced significantly, thereby lowering carbon emissions.
Ensures occupants of the building have a positive experience – BIM-enabled virtual walk-throughs and informative previews of buildings make obtaining critical stakeholder feedback easier. When designing buildings, it plays a crucial role to consider the perspective of the occupant community.
Detects and prevents problems early – BIM helps building owners plan maintenance cycles appropriately and prevent unplanned outages. In this way, facility management budgeting can be more precise. An owner can determine the maintenance cycle of major and minor building systems by analyzing BIM data across a portfolio of buildings assets. They can compare buildings and spaces based on their BIM data.
Reduces the lifetime cost of a building – Building owners recognize that using the BIM model can reduce project costs over time, which is why it is becoming more popular. BIM lowers maintenance costs by reallocating excessive maintenance expenses to design, based on the iceberg hypothesis.
Supports the smart management of buildings and facilities – Buildings are becoming increasingly intelligent as sensors are used extensively. Buildings with intelligent systems will detect when something is wrong and how equipment is being used. For instance, by remotely monitoring the HVAC system, an owner can determine when the system was installed, how it was done, and what maintenance is due.
BIM Marks a New Era of Digital in Construction
Construction has resisted innovation for decades, but BIM technology has managed to overcome that resistance. As a result, the emergence of digitization in the construction sector can be seen as a significant step forward on the road to widespread technological disruption for the industry.