Up to now, many contractors are using BIM, but they are not taking full advantage of what BIM offers. It is an incredibly intelligent tool with a 3D model-based workflow that takes models to the next level. Data can be extracted from 3D models and used to confirm existing information or update new information, as well as share project-related information files with customers and suppliers. Let’s learn about examples of data types included in BIM models.
How do we use BIM?
Building Information Modeling enables contractors to develop digital workflows using consistent data to support project programming, project coordination, construction, and project delivery.
Depending on the different requirements of the project, Building Information Modeling can be applied in different range. It can be simply understood as combining some of the model’s data during the time from the first design stage to the construction site where any drawings are needed with mobile devices. In fact, contractors sometimes don’t apply all of BIM along the way. That may be because their customers expect 2D drawings rather than a digital model.
What benefits of BIM have we overlooked?
Cloud-based BIM solutions provide an unprecedented data exchange and connectivity environment. It was created to support BIM applications and is called Common Data Environments (CDE). Therefore, the organization and presentation of information in BIM is an important key for users, and it must be done carefully from the very beginning to avoid difficulties in the longer term.
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What can contractors do with BIM that perhaps they are not aware of?
Contractors have different needs that vary from project to project. It is very difficult for them to realize all the functions provided to them in the CDE. Sometimes they simply need a tool to manage their 2D drawings. Sometimes they need to identify conflicts between disciplines. Sometimes it is necessary to manage the schedule and construction phases. What is important is that contractors see no obstacles to improving their work lives by adopting BIM for all these tasks.
What types of data can contractors extract from 3D models?
It depends on what contractors are using the 3D model for. If they need to use BIM to coordinate, what they need is online messaging tools, notifications of activities, changes, issues, deadlines, etc. If they need to manage clashes, a connection between the designer and the platform is needed to upload model conflicts.
Managing model components in a BIM environment is important because those models are created from different authoring tools with no consistency. In the Building Information Modeling model they need to be able to assign a consistent topological structure that makes sense for all the disciplines in the build phase of the project and beyond.
How does this data help improve the construction process?
Obviously, data is most important in a BIM model, and visibility and accessibility of that data are key. These data should be the sole source of truth and no deviation from this is allowed. A connected BIM approach is the most beneficial outcome from all the various systems that are used on a project. Operations that are performed in one specific domain should effect a managed change in another domain. If the implementation of BIM on a project does not serve to break the traditional silos of data associated with construction in the past, then the implementation needs to change. From the software perspective, the solution chosen should support flexible implementation and solve the challenges of deriving the best fit for all BIM execution plans. If this is well thought through the data should provide the following improvements in a project:
More accurate digital representation of the physical assets
- A rich data source making handover to different disciplines easier
- Developing an audit trail
- Providing complete visibility on the whole project
- Elevate levels of communication
How does this data help improve communication with customers?
Stakeholder meetings are a regular occurrence on site and in the design office, having all the data and information in one place really allows all disciplines to contribute to discussions and sign off on their relevant areas. The days of manually bringing information together should be a thing of the past in Building Information Modeling mandated projects – this information should exist in a managed solution with everyone working from coordinated models in a shared or published state.
Conclusion
With the rapid growth of digital models, contractors must update their knowledge and experience in using BIM throughout the life of the project. Choosing the right CDE for your company is also very important. If you are looking for an affordable platform, consider oceanBIM, the developer of the CDE platform for small and medium businesses.
