What is Building Information Modeling (BIM)?
Autodesk, a leader in 3D design, engineering and entertainment software, defines BIM as “an intelligent 3D model-based process that gives architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) professionals the insight and tools to more efficiently plan, design, construct, and manage buildings and infrastructure.”
The Balance’s article An Introduction to BIM explains that “BIM is a complex multiphase process that gathers input from team members to model the components and tools that will be used during the construction process to create a unique perspective of the building process.”
Further, “BIM makes a reliable digital representation of the building available for design decision making, high-quality construction document production, construction planning, performance predictions, and cost estimates.”
Engineering.com’s article BIM 101: What is Building Information Modeling? sums BIM up as “a best-practice process and 3D modeling software” which can be used to “create a shared building project with integrated information in a format that models both the structure and the entire timeline of the project”. It explains BIM by breaking it down letter-by-letter:
● Building: It “involves the act of building something together, whether it relates to architecture, infrastructure, civil engineering, landscaping or other large-scale projects.”
● Information: It brings all the information and details of a project into one place, making it easy to keep track of everything.
● Modeling: A three-dimensional (3D) representation of the project, which can be used throughout the building’s lifespan. This step “will help to sell a concept while condensing all of those other layers of information that show the building’s every detail.”
Benefits of Using BIM
Some of the benefits of using BIM, as highlighted in the articles by The Balance and Engineering.com, include:
● Facilitates simpler coordination between team members
● Can be used to collect and monitor a variety of data
● Enables workers to identify potential problems early on, reducing errors and rework
● Facilitates testing and analysis to find the best solution to a problem
● Condenses information into a workable format
● Can be used for more efficient planning and scheduling
● Makes for easier design and easier structure maintenance
● Can be used to estimate costs
● Model can help inform building owners on maintenance and other decisions after the project is complete
There are several benefits of using BIM. Ultimately, it saves time and money, improving overall productivity. That’s why we use BIM at Action Mechanical, Inc., so that we can provide our customers with the best service possible.
