Building Information Modeling, often shortened to BIM, describes the process of creating and managing digital information concerned with assets and constructions. These assets include buildings, bridges, highways, tunnels, and other commercial constructions.
BIM monitors projects at every step of the way, from the beginning to the end of the construction process. It uses sophisticated technology to produce a digital description of the construction, including the planning, 3D models, production, and execution processes.
Things can get complicated in the early stages of a construction project. BIM technology can be used to enhance collaboration by laying out the process in detail.
Real-time information can be fed into the BIM software as the construction goes on. This can be extremely beneficial to keep everyone on the same page and keep all employees informed of the project plan.
For example, if revisions are required in the design of a building, this can be updated via the BIM platform so that the remaining project plan can be adjusted accordingly. These updates will be fed to everybody involved in an accurate and efficient way.
Using BIM can, therefore, save time, energy, and money by streamlining the construction process. It reduces the risks of errors through miscommunication by providing a central ‘hub’ for every employee to work from.
Let’s go into the benefits of BIM in a little more detail.
Improved Workflow Efficiency
BIM can significantly enhance workflow efficiency by removing the need for manual labor at various stages of the construction process.
Architects and engineers can spend hours manually creating designs and templates. They can now use BIM technology to produce accurate 3D models of their designs, and this saves a lot of time and labor.
Construction projects often involve a large volume of people who are working on the same project from multiple locations. This can reduce collaboration and slow down the progress of projects.
BIM software enhances collaborative teamwork by enabling everyone to work from the same software. They can access the information that they need to complete their tasks and can update the rest of the team on their progress in real-time.
Accurate 3D Modeling
BIM technology can be used by architects to produce detailed designs that they would usually spend days creating within hours.
The sophisticated software enables the digital production of a building or large construction through a simulation. This allows the team to visualize the construction in 3D before it is built, something that was impossible prior to BIM technology and 3D modeling software.
These digital designs can be adjusted and changed according to the needs of the project. Whether there are structural or visual design changes, they can be quickly made through BIM software.
For example, these changes might be adding interior features, rearranging indoor spaces, testing the structural viability of a property, or simulating how sunlight will affect the building at different times of the day or year.
If there are changes in the number of materials or staff required to complete the project with the new designs, the BIM software can also be used to organize these changes.
