BIM, or Building Information Modeling, is a process that has been used for years in the architectural and engineering fields. But what about its use in the construction industry?
This comprehensive guide will discuss how to apply BIM in construction projects to streamline communication and collaboration between team members. We’ll also look at some of the key benefits of using BIM in construction and tips on getting started with BIM in your projects! 😃
1. How Does BIM Work and How Can It Be Used in Construction Projects?
BIM, or Building Information Modeling, is a process of creating and managing digital representations of physical and functional characteristics of spaces.
Wow, that’s a mouthful! 😆 Basically, it just means using 3D models + information (instead of just 2D drawings) in a more integrated and strategic way.
BIM can be used for various purposes, including facility management, construction coordination, and energy analysis.
BIM models are created using software programs such as Autodesk Revit and Graphisoft Archicad.
These BIM programs allow users to input data about a space’s geometry, materials, lighting, acoustics, and other features. The data is then used to generate three-dimensional models of the buildings and surrounding area.
Once the model is complete, it can be used to generate drawings and other documentation.
Additionally, BIM models can be used to create visualizations and simulations.
3D BIM modeling can be very useful for understanding how a space will look and feel once it is completed and then be used to examine potential problems that may arise during construction.
2. The Four Main Steps Involved in a Typical BIM Workflow
The building information modeling (BIM) process follows four main steps: planning, design, construction, and operations.
Planning
During the planning phase, project stakeholders work together to establish the goals and objectives of the project. They also identify the specific requirements that the project must meet.
This is where Plannerly (the BIM management platform) comes in! 👍
Design
When the design phase begins, architects and engineers use BIM software to create a digital model of the proposed building. The model includes all necessary information about the building, such as its dimensions, materials, and systems.
Construction
Once the design is complete, construction can begin. During construction, contractors use the BIM model to guide them as they build the actual structure. The model helps them avoid problems and ensure that the finished product meets all specified requirements.
Operations
Finally, once construction is complete, the building enters the operations phase. During this phase, facility managers use BIM (and the information from the model) to help them manage and maintain the structure. For example, they can use BIM to track energy usage or plan future renovations. Make sure you learn more about Digital Twins too!
GOOD READ: MY TOP 5 USES OF DIGITAL TWINS WITH BIM FOR AECO
3. Tips for Implementing BIM in Your Construction Projects
BIM is becoming increasingly popular in the construction industry, as it can help to improve project efficiency and coordination. If you’re considering implementing BIM in your next construction project, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Define the scope of BIM for your project. What kind of information do you need to model? What level of detail is required? You can use a tool like Plannerly to capture these details and agreements. Answering these questions will help you determine which BIM software tools best suit your needs.
- Choose the right software tools. There are many different BIM software tools on the market, so selecting the tools that meet your specific needs is essential. Consider cost, ease of use, and compatibility with other software programs. Check this list of BIM software for some ideas: TOP 10 BEST BIM SOFTWARE PROGRAMS
- Create a detailed plan. Once you’ve selected software, it’s time to plan your project in detail. This plan should include everything from the overall project timeline to individual tasks that need to be completed. The main document you will need is a BIM Execution Plan (BEP) – here are some ideas about why this is important and how you can get started: THE TOP 5 REASONS YOU NEED A BIM EXECUTION PLAN (BEP)
4. How BIM Can Help Streamline Communication and Collaboration Between Team Members
BIM can help streamline communication and collaboration between team members by providing a common platform for exchanging information.
It can also help reduce the need for physical meetings, as team members can view and discuss the BIM model from their computers 🧑💻
In addition, BIM can help improve the accuracy of construction estimates and schedules and the quality of the finished product.
As a result, BIM has the potential to save time and money while improving the overall quality of the construction process.
5. How BIM Can Improve the Accuracy of Project Planning and Execution
There are numerous ways BIM can improve accuracy during project planning and execution.
BIM-based clash detection, for instance, can help identify conflicts between different systems before construction begins. This can save time and money by avoiding potential delays and rework.
In addition, BIM-based 4D scheduling can help create a more realistic schedule for construction projects, considering the sequencing of different tasks and the availability of resources. As a result, 4D scheduling can help improve the accuracy of project planning and execution.
BIM can also help improve accuracy during construction by providing a complete picture of the work that needs to be done.
For instance, as-built BIM models can be used to verify that all work has been completed according to the original design intent.
In addition, BIM-based progress tracking can help identify issues and potential risks early on before they have a chance to impact the project schedule or budget.
Overall, BIM can help improve accuracy in all stages of the construction process, from project planning and execution to as-built verification.
6. Getting To The Benefits of Using BIM in Construction Projects
There are many potential benefits of using BIM in construction projects.
However, without creating a strategic BIM plan for your project you might waste a lot of money 💰 on unnecessary BIM 😖
Plannerly is the BIM management platform that helps you to plan BIM on your construction projects. It’s an online tool that makes it simple to create and manage your BIM planning, schedules, collaboration, and BIM agreements.
With Plannerly, you can easily keep track of detailed scope, information requirements, assignments, and deadlines. The platform also provides real-time updates, so you can always be sure that you’re on track.
In addition, Plannerly offers a variety of templates and tools to help you create a customized BIM plan that fits your specific needs. With its easy-to-use interface and powerful features, Plannerly is the ideal solution for anyone looking to streamline their BIM planning process.
Other Interesting Reads
WHAT IS BUILDING INFORMATION MODELING TECHNOLOGY? MY THOUGHTS ALONG WITH 3 BONUS RESOURCES!
10 EXAMPLE BIM GOALS + MY GUIDELINES FOR SUCCESSFUL BIM PROJECTS
MY TOP 10 USES FOR BIM IN CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT – PLUS THREE BONUS BIM RESOURCES!
Three Bonus Resources 😍
Here are three additional items that I think you’ll find valuable – 1) a video 🎥 that covers the complete BIM management workflow, 2) some fun BIM conversation starters, and 3) some typical questions I get asked about BIM, as well as my best-attempted answers.
I hope they’re useful! 😍
1) The Complete BIM Management Workflow
First, here’s a video showing The Complete BIM Management Workflow:
2) Conversations Starters
I believe that getting started with BIM management is all about having excellent conversations and assisting everyone in the company in becoming more comfortable with it – it won’t take their jobs away!
Here are three conversation starters about BIM management that you might want to use to start up good discussions at your organization:
- How do you think BIM management will change our company over the next 5-10 years?
- What do you think are the potential benefits of improving our BIM management at the company?
- What are the main challenges you think BIM managers face when implementing BIM processes?
3) Questions I Often Get Asked
I have also tried to summarize some answers to the most common questions that I get asked about this subject – I hope you can use them too:
What is BIM management?
BIM management is the process of overseeing and coordinating the construction of a building using Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology. This includes creating and maintaining the 3D model of the project, as well as tracking progress and ensuring that all stakeholders are working together effectively.
Why is BIM management important?
BIM management is crucial for ensuring that a BIM is used smoothly and efficiently on a design/construction project. Having a BIM team coordinate all aspects of the project digitally helps to avoid errors and costly delays. In addition, BIM can provide valuable insights during the design and construction phases, allowing for more informed decision-making.
How can I get started with BIM management?
If you’re interested in using BIM technology for your next construction project, there are a few things you need to do to get started. First, you’ll need to find software that is compatible with your needs and budget. It’s important to do your research before making a decision but definitely look at using Plannerly for your BIM Execution Planning, scoping, and model checking! 👍
I blog for the Five BIM Bloggers series.
Every week we share different perspectives on important BIM topics!
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