BIM has been hailed as the next generation in building design and record-keeping. It is an intelligent digital model that creates a central information resource for a facility, rather than just lines and symbols representing building features as with traditional CAD. BIM has revolutionized the entire building process, from inception to grand opening, and throughout ongoing operations for the life of the building. It inherently encourages collaboration in a field where groups have always worked independently, often resulting in errors and delays.
A BIM model has much to offer to every group involved in a building’s life cycle.
For the designer: A multitude of tests can be run on the digital model. For example, the effects of external heat sources, reflected light from other buildings, energy-efficient fixtures and occupant energy usage can be applied to the model. The design can then be adjusted to respond to these factors. For this reason, BIM is often used for green design and LEED certification. Even if sustainability was not the priority, different designs can be tested and simulated before any money is spent on actual construction.
For the contractor: The full potential of BIM is realized when all parties use a single model for a building project. This means that prior to construction, any design conflicts, for example between the plumbing and the electrical, would have been identified and corrected, saving time and resources. Contractors can also put in more precise bids based on all real building data. For example, carpet suppliers will have an accurate square footage to work with, and lighter blinds can be used in parts of the building where there is usually shade.
For the property owner: The greatest benefits of BIM are realized by the building owner. The benefits outlined above ultimately translate into lower overall building and maintenance costs and the model can be used as a detailed repository of all building components for ongoing maintenance and operations. This makes maintenance much easier down the road if supplier names and part numbers are readily available. BIM can also help with redesigning any ill-used space, increasing potential revenue and the 3D model can produce impressive marketing material to attract potential tenants.
BIM provides one central location for ALL building data throughout the entire life of a building. Because it encourages all parties to collaborate together on a building project, it lessens the number of inconsistencies and errors, and saves time and money. The future of building design is here and it is BIM.
