BIM has been hailed as the next generation in building design and record-keeping. Not only are these 3D, parametric models extremely flexible and dynamic, they can store all data for a building from floor plans, quantity take-offs, area calculations, supplier information to construction schedules and assets. This centralized database of highly accurate information can be readily shared with all building stakeholders throughout a facility’s life cycle.

Effective use of BIM has the potential to eliminate enormous waste in the building industry that results from the duplication of effort collecting and creating project and building information multiple times over the life of a building. In addition, using BIM for construction projects has been shown to save up to 10% of contract costs as a result of detecting “clashes” virtually rather than during construction and, has demonstrated up to 7% reduction in project time. The benefits are so compelling that the US and UK governments have mandated the use of BIM on government construction projects.

PLANiT specializes in developing accurate as-built BIMs extremely cost effectively. The objectives of the project and specific characteristics of the building are analyzed to determine the best methodology to be used on-site (e.g., point cloud laser scanning or the MeasuringBoard® or both) to ensure that the right level of detail is collected within the BIM. No need to buy a level of detail that you can’t get full use out of today. The basic model can easily be enhanced over time as building information changes and as business needs justify additional detail. PLANiT uses IFC compliant software to ensure that clients get maximum benefit and utility from the models in the long term.

Using BIM, engineers and architects also have the opportunity to better model green designs. Factors such as climate, efficiency ratings of fixtures and energy consumption patterns can now be analyzed far more quickly and accurately and above all, the analysis can qualify for government rebates which can significantly reduce the cost of the modeling. PLANiT works with leading energy consultants to deliver sophisticated, hydro-approved, BIM-based energy audits.

For more information on how our BIMs can be used in energy audits, see the following article:

BIM: Futuristic Solutions for the Greening of Apartment Buildings

For more information on BIM, please see the following:

Quality Control for Design and Construction; Modelling Tool Supports Innovation and Risk Management

BIM: The Industry’s Visionary Gateway to the Future Has Arrived

The GSA’s Journey into Building Information Modeling video which speaks to BIM’s various functions and benefits to all stakeholders involved in the life cycle of a building.

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