Before addressing this question, it is essential to understand the fundamentals of BIM (Building Information Modelling), its benefits, and the necessary conditions for effectively working with a BIM model. By exploring these aspects, we can gain valuable insights into why a construction company should consider adopting a BIM model and how it can positively impact their projects.
What is BIM?
BIM stands for Building Information Modelling. It is a digital representation of the physical and functional characteristics of a building or infrastructure project. BIM encompasses the use of various software tools and technologies to create a virtual model that integrates architectural, structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing elements, as well as other relevant data related to the project.
The BIM model serves as a central hub of information, allowing different stakeholders involved in the construction process to collaborate, share, and access data throughout the project's lifecycle. It goes beyond traditional 2D drawings by providing a 3D model with intelligent and interconnected information. BIM enables the visualization, analysis, and simulation of different aspects of a construction project, fostering better decision-making, coordination, and efficiency.
Benefits of BIM model?
Improved collaboration among project stakeholders.
Enhanced visualization and communication of design intent.
Clash detection and risk mitigation.
Improved cost and time management.
Enhanced facility management and maintenance.
Needed conditions to work with BIM model effectively?
Skilled workforce proficient in BIM tools and workflows.
Standardized processes and workflows for consistency and compatibility.
Robust IT infrastructure for handling large BIM files and data.
Utilization of collaboration and communication platforms designed for BIM.
Clear project requirements and implementation of standardized BIM protocols.
Collaboration and integration with all project stakeholders.
Supportive organizational culture embracing innovation and collaboration.
How challenge to approach a BIM model?
The digitalization status of the construction company decides the its difficult level to approach BIM model. Let see where your company locates.
1. Your company still manage construction project with Excel.
If your company is at this level, transitioning to a BIM model will face the greatest difficulty. Why?
Approaching a BIM model becomes challenging for companies that still manage construction projects using Excel or similar manual methods. This is because transitioning from manual processes to BIM requires a significant shift in technology adoption and workflow practices. Companies at this level lack the necessary digitalization infrastructure, skilled workforce, and standardized processes to effectively implement BIM. They would need to invest in upgrading their technology, training employees, and establishing new protocols, making the adoption of BIM more difficult compared to companies already operating in a digitalized environment.
2. Your company is using a few separate softwares such us MS project, meeting management, task management ...
While it's commendable that your company has adopted effective tools to streamline and organize workflow, it may not be sufficient for optimizing time usage and achieving maximum efficiency. Additionally, Moreover, relying on separate tools can create difficulties in collaborating effectively with external parties and result in scattered data. To fully leverage the benefits of BIM, it is crucial to adopt a more comprehensive and integrated digitalization approach. This approach will help overcome these limitations and ensure smooth collaboration, centralized data management, and improved project outcomes.
3. Your company is using a CDE
Your company is using a CDE (Common Data Environment), indicating that you are likely ready to approach the BIM model. A CDE is a project management software that offers comprehensive tools to manage documents and tasks, facilitate collaboration, and share data with all relevant parties in a single platform.
By leveraging a CDE, your company benefits from improved organization, streamlined communication, and centralized data management. These advantages align with the core principles of BIM, making the transition to BIM more seamless.
With a CDE in place, your company has already established the foundation for effective collaboration, data integration, and project coordination, which are crucial elements for successfully implementing and leveraging the BIM model.
Recommended routine for the transformation
BIM is recognized as the most advanced technology in the construction industry. It has become crucial for all companies in the construction sector to adopt BIM models to minimize risks, improve cost effectiveness, and enhance productivity. If you want to transform your company from its current practices to a BIM model, here are some recommended steps to follow. These steps will help you successfully integrate BIM into your workflow and facilitate a seamless transition.
Establishing standardized processes and workflows within the company. This ensures consistency and compatibility across different projects and enables effective collaboration among team members.
Adopting a CDE or a collaboration and communication platforms specifically designed for construction project management. This can greatly enhance the effectiveness of working with BIM models. These platforms allow for seamless sharing of models, data, and project-related information among team members, regardless of their physical location. Features such as real-time updates, version control, and centralized data management streamline collaboration, improve coordination, and facilitate efficient decision-making.
Training the team to be advance in using the softwares and comfortable with new technology. This is the important step for your team to be ready to approach BIM technology.
In conclusion, regardless of your company's current digitalization level, taking steps to enhance your digital capabilities is crucial for long-term growth and competitiveness in the industry. Embracing digitalization prepares your company for future challenges and opens doors to new opportunities.