The buzzword of the moment in the world of Architecture, Engineering and Construction is BIM. However, we know there is still a lot of confusion over BIM services and how they can help construction contractors. One commonly held belief about BIM, for example, is that it is a technology, which is not the case. BIM actually refers to the process of managing all of the information to do with a building project, and it can bring many benefits to construction:

Better communication

In the past, many construction projects have relied on paper drawings which don’t allow for collaboration between everyone involved in the project. Working with a cloud-based digital BIM model means that everyone involved in the project has the same access to the same information all the way through the project, meaning information is up-to-date at all times.

Better cost estimation

BIM tools such as Autodesk Revit allows for the automation of quantifying and applying costs, which can not only free up time but also allows for more accurate cost estimation in the long run. Freeing up time from cost estimation means that the contractor can instead focus on factoring risks and other higher value tasks.

Enhanced project visualisation

With the use of BIM, you can visualise the building before the ground is even broken, and you can share this vision with your client as well. This means that changes to the design can be made before construction starts, saving on both time and money.

Improved Clash Detection

BIM has enhanced facilities management no end, as it also allows for clashes between trades to be identified before construction begins. You can see where electrical conduits will go and whether they will clash with any beams or not, and if the doorways have enough clearance for example. By avoiding clashes such as this, you can avoid last minute changes and issues, again saving on both time and money.

Improved scheduling

A lot of these cost-saving benefits also save time on a project as well, as they eliminate many of the common construction schedule setbacks. BIM allows documentation and design to run side by side, and be easily updated online in order to reflect new information such as site conditions. This sharing of information quickly and easily means that schedules should be more accurate and therefore projects are more likely to be completed on time.

Increase in prefabrication

The data that is collected for BIM can also be used for manufacturing purposes, such as generating production drawings for modular construction technology. The fact that items can now be designed, detailed and built offsite means that wastage can be reduced, as can labour and material costs.

Stronger facilities management

As we have mentioned in other blogs, BIM has brought many benefits for facilities managers, not least the fact that it provides them with an accurate and on-going digital record of the building during its entire lifecycle.

As you can see, BIM is a valuable tool for the construction industry, with many benefits. Construction projects that use BIM will have a greater chance of success due to their efficiency and effectiveness.

To find out more about how The CAD Room can help with BIM implementation within your company, please give our friendly and experienced team today.