We had the opportunity to speak with Shivang Rajvir, a BIM expert and the founder of a BIM consulting company called Dimension Plus based in India.
Shivang shared his journey into the world of BIM, the invaluable lessons he has learned along the way, and “the three P’s of BIM”!
Welcome Shivang!
Shivang starts off by letting you know that he’s not actually deep in the jungle, but outside an architecture college, all set to begin an exciting BIM lecture! 😃
He’s also super passionate about tackling what he playfully refers to as BIM pollution 😆
From Lazy Architect to BIM Advocate
Shivang’s journey with BIM began in 2002 when he was a second-year architecture student. He always sought smart ways to work and was frustrated with the limitations of manual drafting and 2D CAD software. He wanted a tool that would allow him to streamline the design process and enhance communication with design faculty.
It was during this time that Shivang discovered ArchiCAD, a BIM software that spoke his architectural language. He fell in love with its graphical capabilities and decided to continue his architectural journey with ArchiCAD.
After graduating in 2007, Shivang opened his own architecture practice and was approached by Graphisoft, the company behind ArchiCAD, to become a partner. Recognizing the value of sharing his knowledge and expertise with others, Shivang started India’s first Graphisoft authorized training center in 2008.
Through his training center, Shivang not only taught others how to use ArchiCAD but also became involved in selling the software directly. This experience further solidified his belief in the power of BIM and its impact on productivity and profitability.
The Three P’s of BIM: Productivity, Profit, and Prototype
As Shivang explored the world of BIM throughout his career, he discovered three key benefits that come with its implementation: productivity, profit, and prototype.
1. Productivity: Streamlining Workflows
One of the immediate benefits of adopting BIM is increased productivity. Shivang says that by transitioning from traditional drafting methods to a BIM workflow, companies can save a lot of time.
Shivang shared the success story of an architecture practice that went from denying projects due to workload constraints to accepting more projects after switching to ArchiCAD.
The practice realized that with the same number of staff members, they had more time available and could take on additional projects. BIM streamlined their workflows, allowing them to be more productive and efficient.
2. Profit: Improving the Bottom Line
In addition to productivity gains, Shivang says that implementing BIM has a direct impact on profitability. By using BIM to enhance coordination and communication, projects can be executed more efficiently, reducing errors, rework, and waste. As a result, companies can complete projects on time and within budget, leading to improved profitability.
Shivang emphasized that BIM is not only a technological tool, but also a business tool.
Architects and construction professionals who embrace BIM create a competitive advantage for their firms.
3. Prototype: Visualizing the Unseen
A fascinating aspect of BIM is its ability to create digital prototypes of buildings and infrastructure.
Unlike product designers who can create physical prototypes, architects and engineers cannot construct a prototype building.
BIM fills this gap by allowing professionals to visualize their designs in a digital environment.
This visualization helps identify potential clashes, detect safety issues, and improve overall design quality.
Shivang highlighted that BIM opens architects’ eyes to unexplored and often overlooked aspects of their projects, enabling them to deliver better outcomes.
The Importance of Data in BIM: Common Data Environment
Shivang highlighted the need for a common data environment (CDE). A CDE provides a centralized platform for all project stakeholders to access and share project data and information, ensuring everyone is on the same page. However, many organizations struggle with adopting and implementing a CDE due to resistance or lack of understanding.
Shivang emphasized the importance of addressing this challenge and educating industry professionals on the advantages of a CDE. He acknowledged that organizations need to shift their mindset and embrace new technologies and workflows to fully leverage the benefits of BIM.
To address this challenge, Shivang expressed his desire to see CDE platforms like Plannerly, a construction collaboration software, evolve into even more comprehensive CDEs that integrate across the AEC ecosystem. This would allow users to combine project data, communicate effectively, and utilize BIM to its fullest potential.
The Role of Students in Embracing BIM
As the architecture and construction industry continues to evolve, it becomes imperative for students to acquire BIM skills early in their education. BIM prepares students for the future of the industry, equipping them with the necessary tools and knowledge to excel in their careers.
By learning BIM, students gain a competitive edge in the job market. Employers are increasingly seeking professionals who are proficient in BIM software and methodologies.
BIM encourages students to work cohesively as a team, promoting effective communication and problem-solving.
Supporting BIM Education Programs
To support educational institutions, Plannerly offers free access to its platform for eligible education programs, aiding in the training of the next generation of BIM professionals.
By partnering with Plannerly, educational institutions can provide valuable resources to students and empower them to excel in their BIM education.
Shivang is doing an incredible job in teaching this next generation of BIM professionals who will shape our world for years to come!
Free BIM Management Training with Plannerly
Plannerly also provides free BIM management training.
By participating in Plannerly’s online certified BIM training courses, individuals can develop the necessary skills to efficiently manage BIM projects and workflows, further advancing their BIM expertise.
The Future of BIM
As our conversation came to a close, Shivang expressed his excitement about the future possibilities of BIM. From his perspective, BIM will continue to evolve and revolutionize the architecture and construction industry. He stressed that the industry needs to address BIM pollution, which refers to the misinformation and misconceptions surrounding BIM. By debunking myths and educating professionals about the true benefits of BIM, Shivang hopes to clear the path for wider adoption of this powerful tool.
Did you know that Plannerly (The BIM Management Platform) is FREE TO JOIN?
Did you sign up yet?:
Three Bonus BIM Resources 🥳
1. Other Interesting Reads ⤵
- TOP 50 BIM ACRONYMS: EVERYTHING YOU WANTED TO KNOW BUT WERE AFRAID TO ASK!
- WHY YOU NEED A BIM MANAGER – 10 IMPORTANT REASONS YOU MUST HIRE A BIM MANAGER!
- 10 REASONS WHY BEING A BIM MANAGER IS THE BEST JOB EVER!
2. The Complete BIM Management Workflow [VIDEO] 🎥
Here’s a video I think you might find valuable 😃 – it covers the complete BIM management workflow:
3. Answers to some related questions 🤔
What does BIM stand for?
BIM stands for Building Information Modeling
What is the role of BIM in the architecture and construction industry?
BIM enhances productivity, improves profitability, and enables the creation of digital prototypes.
How does learning BIM give students a competitive edge in the job market?
Employers increasingly seek professionals proficient in BIM software and methodologies.
What does Plannerly offer to support educational institutions in BIM education?
Plannerly offers free access to its platform and BIM management training for eligible education programs.
Does Plannerly offer BIM training?
Yes, Plannerly offers BIM training. We have a variety of online courses available for all levels. Whether you’re an architect, engineer or construction manager, we have something for everyone. For more information on our courses and programs, please visit our website here: plannerly.com/training
I blog for the Five BIM Bloggers series.
Every week we share different perspectives on important BIM topics!
To hear our views first, Join Free or follow Plannerly!
