How Building Information Modeling (BIM)
Improves Construction Projects
When professionals in building design, construction, and operation use Building Information Modeling (BIM) software, the result is greater productivity, faster and higher quality work, and lower costs.
BIM software provides these benefits in three significant ways:
- Plans designed and managed on digital databases allow everyone on the project to collaborate more easily.
- BIM software ensures that changes to any part of the plans coordinate with all the other parts, thus saving time, eliminating potential mistakes, and reducing overhead costs.
- The information captured on BIM software is preserved so that it can be reused by other industry-specific applications.
BIM captures the designer’s intent more easily. Not only does the database contain a list of building components and locations, but it also includes the intended relationships between those objects. It details information such as how far the eaves of a roof should overhang an exterior wall or how many beams should be spaced equally across a structural bay. This ensures that what the designer intended is clearly spelled out for everyone who works on the project.
The BIM Process
The process begins by entering data into the BIM database. The program turns the information into drawings, schedules, cost estimates, or other conventional presentations for those who need to see it.
When changes are made to the plans, BIM keeps those changes consistent with the project’s design principles and intent. Because the software is able to keep track of the relationship between all the elements, the data can be reused in other applications and makes the design process significantly more efficient. The technology lets detailers share models with engineers, architects, and contractors. This saves the client time and money.
More Efficient, Cost-Effective Results
BIM allows design teams to accomplish more with fewer people. A smaller design team means improved communication and lower costs. Changes to the documents are simpler to make. Because cost information is available faster and can be updated more frequently, budgeting and cost estimating is easier to do when using BIM.
With each change to the design, BIM enables the design team to immediately spot potential challenges and come up with solutions early on. It also allows everyone in the process to reconsider earlier assumptions. This means that changes late in the design process are minimized. Managing changes, an inherent part of the design process, is greatly improved by the use of BIM software.
Keeping everything consistent within the set of drawings reduces the potential for errors. Time that the team would otherwise spend in checking documents by hand can now be invested in making the project better and saving money. This results in higher-quality plans, lower costs, and better coordination.
As each design challenge is met, the BIM software captures the new information and makes it available for later evaluations. It also assists in operating and managing the finished building. Because BIM produces a higher-quality design document with better construction planning, more of the construction dollar goes into the building instead of administration and overhead.
A Win-Win Solution
is a win-win for the construction industry, resulting in the highest-quality results and the best possible work by the team. Detailers are able to plan unique projects using three-dimensional, real-time, dynamic building-modeling software to cut costs and improve accuracy.
When you look for a steel detailer, select a company that stays current with the latest BIM software and developments, such as MKE Steel Detailing. MKE Steel Detailing uses SDS/2 software for the best in 3-D modeling.
Contact us today to discuss 3-D or BIM for your project or request a quote.