The speed at which software for architects and construction has developed over the last couple of decades is remarkable. With a wide variety of packages and tools available it can be difficult to decide which way to go.
This article is not talking about one particular software package, but about a process that has become an essential part of successful design and construction projects: Building Information Management, or BIM. Let’s start by explaining what BIM is and why it has made a great impact in the architectural world.
What is BIM?
The question what is BIM can best be answered thus: it’s the next step forward in Computer Aided Design (CAD) but takes into account far more than just the design process. Tale a step back to the pre-CAD days. Buildings and other objects were designed using hand drawn blueprints, and accompanying artist’s depictions, which expressed the building in 2D.
This was the traditional method for many decades, and while imperfect in that it is difficult to perceive a finished article in full from 2D drawings they could be used sufficiently to prepare those involved for what was necessary.
Then along came CAD; instantly we could export a 2D drawing into a 3D render, which allowed for more precise understanding of the requirements for the project. What does BIM add to this? BIM goes one step further in bringing information into the process. It allows all involved – stakeholders, planners, architects, designers, construction professionals and anyone with a vested interest – to keep up to date with progress in real time, at all times.
How BIM Works
A BIM project works via individual components known as ‘BIM Objects.’ Think of it like this: each of the professionals working on the project has their own sphere of influence. Say the architect makes a change to the plans at the request of the client. This change to one BIM Object affects the overall project. Yet, as each operative is kept up to date in real time, they all see the effect of the change at the same time and can enact whatever is necessary from their part.
Think of BIM as three separate elements brought together: there’s the ‘Building’ which covers not just the physical building itself but the environment it sits in, its surroundings, the effect it will have on that environment and the infrastructure. The next element is the ‘Information: this lies at the core of a BIM project, in enabling all information relating to all areas of the project to be accessible to everyone involved in real time.
The third element is the ‘Management’ part but is perhaps best explained by using the term ‘Modelling.’ With a BIM project the model evolves until it exists in final form, thanks to the management of the information involved. This leaves the owner with much more than a set of drawings for reference, but in fact a detailed model that shows the building is ready to be constructed.
Benefits of BIM
The benefit of working within the BIM framework is clear to see: all parties are involved throughout, changes and information are there to follow in real time, hence a reduction in delays waiting, for example, for designs to be completed, and time and cost-saving construction project that is well managed.
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