BIM software: What can construction professionals get out of it?
With BIM LOD 500 models, contractors can share their project purpose with an easier and more collaborative approach
Benefits of using BIM for constructors
Both architects and engineers have started to use BIM to transform conceptual designs into geometric 3D models for their projects. From this models, general contractors can generate construction plans, logistics, and further processes. At this stage, BIM has become an entirely digital lifecycle from design to facility management. With BIM LOD 500 models, contractors can share their project purpose with an easier and more collaborative approach.
We have to keep in mind that the basics of a successful construction project are the ability of the professionals to add the design intelligence into the model and be able to handle the data efficiently. A BIM friendly environment or Common Data Environment creates a collaborative platform to design and change tracks while keeping all the stakeholders on the same page.
One of the added value of BIM is that once the design is finished, both data and planning for construction can be stored to be shared with any actor of the project. Any changes and orders can be handled by digitized within the review process and fast decisions can be made.
During the whole life-cycle of the project, including preconstruction, construction, and post-construction phase, the 3D model is a key element. Once the construction is finished, the CDE made with BIM is handed over to the owners. This CDE incorporates the changes made during the construction and it becomes the true source for building owners and facility managers. The data stored within will allow facility managers to perform an efficient maintenance, during renovations. This can be done because even the smallest part of the information is available in a very fast and accessible platform.
Subcontractors involved in construction should be part of the development of the projects since BIM has critically improved the approach to them. By collaborating with BIM, sub-contractors can settle the basis for design and procedures with prefabricated building elements and products. This initiative ensures the less reworks possible and an efficient check costs.
During the whole construction process, 3D BIM models will serve as the main source of information for the professionals of the project. They will be able to have access to the model for both task assignment and execution. The advanced AR/VR technology will allow the workers to connect with the engineers in the office. The same time that every change made will be notified to all the people, including costs and schedules.
To operate the facility and deliver the best maintenance, can be achieved by doing two things: a BIM model in place and having the knowledge where each component is located. When we have this two in place, getting from BIM to Facility Information Modeling is not that complicated. Once the team of facility managers is able to work with this two aspects, owners will make the right decisions along the lifecycle of a building.
To sum up, BIM has a significant impact on among contractors, general or sub-contractors. It will be used as a single file that contains all the information of the building construction or infrastructure development project. It also will improve the alliance between contractors, sub-contractors, building owners, engineers, and architects.
