The advancement of technology is quite evident across history. Throughout time, humanity has jumped leaps and bounds in developments of technology. This has improved societal wellbeing and general ongoings.
More specifically, the way in which we work is significantly linked to the advancement of technology. Processes and aspects of work can be affected in positive ways to increase productivity and efficiency.
We can see this quite prominently in the construction industry. Being one of the largest in Australia, it has ties to ensuring the nation’s economic growth is constant. Part of this involves delivering projects of public and private nature on time and within budget, along with meeting safety rules and regulations. Technology thus goes hand in hand with construction.
One such technology of importance in today’s society is building information modelling (BIM). Business Information Modelling is used for creating and managing data during the design, construction, and operations process. BIM integrates multi-disciplinary data to create detailed digital representations that are managed in an open cloud platform for real-time collaboration.
With regards to construction, its purpose is simple. Business Information Modelling is a process for creating and managing information on a construction project throughout its whole life cycle. As part of this process, a coordinated digital description of every aspect of the built asset is developed, using a set of appropriate technology.
In this blog, we explore Business Information Modelling and its place in construction. To further expand on this, we will also look at how it is changing the methods we use to design and build.
Building Information Modelling (BIM) is a digital representation of a building’s physical and functional characteristics. It is a process that uses computer software to create a 3D model of a building, which can then be used for planning, design, construction, and maintenance. BIM is changing the way we design and build by offering numerous benefits, such as improved collaboration, better communication, and increased efficiency.
Building Information Modelling is quite accessible. It is an interesting question: how do a large number of people access it at one time? BIM models are shared through an open source centre known as a common data environment. The data collected here is known as an information model. There is flexibility involved with information models in that they can be used at any stage of the life cycle of an engagement.
What about levels? Well, Building Information Modelling is scalable. You can access levels such as 4D and 5D. The reason why this is possible is because it allows users to determine how effective information is in being shared across users on the platform.
One of the most significant benefits of Building Information Modelling (BIM) is improved collaboration. BIM allows all parties involved in a construction project, including architects, engineers, contractors, and facility managers, to work together on the same model. This improves communication and coordination, which leads to fewer mistakes and delays. BIM also allows for real-time updates, which means that any changes made to the model are immediately visible to all stakeholders.
When all parties are working on the same model, it eliminates the need for multiple versions of the design and reduces the risk of errors. This is especially important when it comes to coordination between different disciplines. For example, architects and engineers need to work together to ensure that the design is structurally sound and meets all of the necessary building codes. BIM makes this coordination much easier by allowing all parties to work on the same model and see how their work fits into the overall design.
BIM also allows for real-time updates, which means that any changes made to the model are immediately visible to all stakeholders. This allows for quick and easy identification of any potential issues and helps to prevent delays. Additionally, BIM models can be used to track the progress of the project and identify any issues that may arise during construction. This helps to keep the project on schedule and within budget.
In addition, BIM models can be used to simulate different scenarios, which allows for better decision-making and problem-solving. For example, if a change is made to the design, the impact of that change can be simulated to see how it will affect the overall project. This allows for quick identification of any potential issues and helps to prevent delays.
Another benefit of BIM is that it allows for better communication. BIM models can be used to create detailed drawings and documents, which can be shared with all stakeholders. This improves the quality of the design and helps to ensure that everyone is on the same page. Additionally, BIM models can be used to create virtual walkthroughs, which can be used to communicate design concepts to clients, stakeholders, and other members of the project team.
BIM also increases efficiency in several ways. One of the most significant ways is through the automation of repetitive tasks involved in construction such as scheduling and estimating. BIM software can be used to create detailed schedules and cost estimates, which can be updated in real-time as the project progresses. This allows for more accurate forecasting and better management of resources, which leads to a reduction in the amount of time and resources that are required to complete a project.
Another way BIM increases efficiency is through the use of automated clash detection. BIM models can be used to identify potential conflicts between different building systems, such as plumbing and electrical, before construction begins. This allows for the identification and resolution of potential issues early on in the project, which helps to prevent delays and additional costs.
BIM models can also be used to simulate different potential occurrences. For example, BIM software can be used to analyse energy usage and identify ways to reduce energy consumption and costs. Additionally, BIM models can be used to simulate different building systems, such as HVAC, to ensure that they are operating efficiently and effectively.
Additionally, BIM models can be used for Facility Management after the building is completed. BIM models can be used to track the life cycle of the building and its systems, which allows for better planning and maintenance. This helps to extend the life of the building and reduce long-term costs.
What is evident from delving into the components of Building Information Modelling is that it will continue to be a large facet of the building and construction industry moving forward. As collaboration and innovation become more desirable assets, it only makes sense that BIM has a sturdy place within the industry as a player in the advancement of construction.
BIM is changing the way we design and build by improving collaboration, communication, and efficiency. BIM allows all parties involved in a construction project to work together on the same model, improves communication and coordination, and increases efficiency by automating many of the repetitive tasks involved in construction. As BIM technology continues to evolve, it will play an increasingly important role in the construction industry.
