Building projects are collaborative, pulling input from architects, engineers, contractors, and other professionals. One of the ways a team collaborates during the design and construction process is through Building Information Modeling (BIM).
BIM is the process of creating and managing a 3D building model. At Neumann Monson, we have been using BIM for years and understand how it aids visualization, collaboration, and quality assurance.
While BIM is foundational to most modern building projects, few owners understand the process. This article will clear up any confusion by defining BIM and discussing how it benefits building design, construction, and operation.
What is BIM?
BIM refers to the process of creating 3D building models to gain insight into spatial relationships, geometry, geographic information, and building component properties.
For most of history, building visualizations were two-dimensional. Architects, standing over drafting tables, drew floor plans and elevations by hand to convey the design intent to the construction team. Eventually, these 2D representations became digitized, with programs like AutoCAD entering the market.
While 2D representations remain part of the design and construction process, 3D modeling is becoming the go-to for the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry. Programs like Revit can model every building component—from foundations and interiors to plumbing and mechanical systems.
BIM allows designers to create accurate 3D models.
BIM software allows each team member to combine their respective components into one main model. Architectural teams can model elements like finishes, casework, and walls and share their models with contractors and consultants—including structural engineers and Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) engineers—for collaboration.
How Does BIM Benefit Your Project?
Often, building owners are removed from the BIM process. Although they may view the 3D model in design meetings, they may not understand the work that goes into its creation or how it benefits the project.
While owners may not see the BIM process, it benefits their project and bottom line. Below, we’ll discuss these benefits in greater detail.
1. Visualization
BIM provides the ability to create accurate, 3D representations of a building. Design teams can show the model during design meetings or export renderings to aid visualization.
Often, clients struggle to picture the completed project. Although 2D representations like floor plans or elevations provide a general idea of the building, clients may not understand how it all comes together.
VR headsets can create a more immersive experience for clients.
3D models create a realistic picture, making it easier for clients to give feedback. Design teams can even use Virtual Reality (VR) headsets to create an immersive experience and give clients an understanding of room sizes, volumes, and light quality.
Ultimately, realistic representations can reduce owner-requested changes during construction. A seemingly small change during construction, like moving a wall, can have ripple effects that increase the project’s cost. 3D models allow clients to make changes when the design is more malleable, reducing the likelihood of cost increases.
2. Clash Detection
Another benefit of BIM is the ability to detect issues before starting construction. With multiple consultants contributing to the model, design teams can see how every building component interacts and identify areas where one component interferes with another.
For example, the design team may notice a pipe passing through a structural element and make changes to resolve the issue. Without BIM, such problems may only be discovered during construction, leading to change orders, schedule delays, and cost increases.
At the same time, BIM models give contractors a better sense of how the building comes together, reducing errors in the field. The collaborative nature of a 3D model creates a more efficient construction process by allowing everyone to detect issues early.
3. Operations and Maintenance
BIM can also help with building operations and maintenance. After construction, design teams can pass the model on to a facilities manager for their use.
The model can help the manager understand the building’s systems. For example, they can also use the model to obtain information about products, warranties, and manufacturers, making it easier to order replacement parts.
Some models provide more detailed information. For example, the model can notify the facilities manager when an air filter needs to be replaced. The level of detail comes down to your organization and your staff’s needs.
Discover Other Tools Used in the Design Process
The design industry has come a long way since the days of hand-drawn plans. Today, BIM is becoming increasingly ingrained in the architectural process, offering numerous benefits.
In addition to helping owners visualize the completed building, BIM aids collaboration and minimizes errors, saving owners time and money. Its use can even extend past design and construction to aid building operations and maintenance.
3D modeling is only one of the technologies integrated into the design process. Many designers also use energy modeling software to find the ideal size, massing, and orientation for a building.
This process can improve building performance and reduce long-term energy costs. To learn more, read about the role of energy modeling in the architectural process.