Building Information Modeling (BIM): Digital Transformation in Construction

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a set of software tools that allow architects and engineers to access, capture, and use building information in digital format. Improved productivity, reduced costs, greater flexibility, and scalability across projects. In this article, we'll cover the following topics: 

What is BIM?

How does BIM work?

The Benefits of BIM?

What's Next For BIM? 

This technology can help the construction industry save time and money while making better decisions during the building process.

What is Building Information Modeling (BIM)?

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is used by architects, engineers, and contractors to design buildings. BIM allows them to view the project from all angles, providing information critical to developing the best designs possible.

BIM systems are computer programs that provide architects with everything they need to build a building. The program can be used for creating 3D models of every room in the house, allowing them to visualize how their design will look inside and out quickly. It also provides detailed information about each material required for construction: what it's made of, where it comes from, how much it costs per square foot, etc.

The designers then use this data to create their plans for construction materials. By sharing BIM files among multiple partners—architects working on different projects at once—they can coordinate their efforts more effectively than ever before.

First introduced back in the late 90s, BIM has become an essential part of current construction projects worldwide because it saves time and money while improving quality overall.

What do you need before diving into a BIM project?

The first thing you'll need is a solid foundation. Before starting any construction project, it's essential to understand your client's needs and expectations. Many people begin a BIM project with little to no experience, but you must know your goals before diving into the process.

Building design

A building design is a structural plan, including details such as the form and arrangement of spaces, materials, and finishes. Building designs range from simple to complex. A "house plan" or "plan drawing" defines the floor plan for a new development, usually based on standard construction methods and materials.

Infrastructure design

Infrastructure design is the process of designing, planning, and implementing the physical structure of an asset. Other types of infrastructure include roads, bridges, tunnels, and buildings. Infrastructure can be public or private; local governments or corporations may own it. A good infrastructure must provide essential services to its users while being cost-effective enough to support an economically vibrant society.

Digital transformation and construction

Digital Transformation refers to changing an organization from a physical, paper-based business model to a digital one. This change brings about new opportunities, risks, and challenges.

As digitization continues to gain momentum in the construction industry, organizations are faced with more opportunities than ever before. Digital transformation allows organizations to become more agile, efficient, and competitive by leveraging the latest technologies to increase efficiency and reduce costs through greater agility.

Digital Transformation is also referred to as 'Big Data, 'Data Analytics,' or 'Business Intelligence.' These terms refer collectively to data collection and the analysis of that data (e.g., mining it) and its application (e.g., BI). These terms may vary depending on the context – e.g., you might hear "BI" or "data analytics" used when talking about specific tools or applications. In contrast, you might hear "data analytics" being used generically when discussing analytical activity using data analytics reports.

The construction industry has gained enormous value through digitization over the last decade..., but now it's time for them to take advantage of this opportunity by implementing BIM Building Modeling that can help them improve the quality of project delivery.

What is the difference between 3D CAD modeling and BIM?

In engineering, 3D CAD modeling is a way to create accurate computer-generated representations of objects. BIM is a subset of this technology that uses information from both 2D and 3D CAD modeling to produce an interactive model that can be used for design planning, construction documentation, and various other purposes.

3D CAD modeling is time-consuming and challenging to use.

BIM offers a complete suite of construction-related tools in one easy-to-use program, eliminating the need for multiple software applications. Now you can create 3D models of your buildings with just a few mouse clicks.

Building information modeling simplifies designing and building a structure from the ground up. A BIM model is like an online photo album, allowing all parties in the building process to communicate using 3D models that can be easily updated whenever plans change or become more or less complex as it relates to the project's parameters. Proven time and time again, BIM adoption is used in large-scale projects such as constructing power plants or manufacturing facilities, but small-scale companies also reap the same benefits.

BIM in facility operations

Facilities management is a complex process that involves handling different facilities such as offices, commercial buildings, industrial plants, campuses, etc. Today major construction projects should consider in their project delivery a BIM Building Modeling. You can use BIM to closely look at your facility's structure and overall condition and ensure all the vital components are in good working order. Having access to real-time information about your facility allows for instant recovery if you have any problems that require immediate attention without coming back later to check things out manually.

As any investor knows, it's essential never to stop striving to make your Asset profitable. By merging Building Information Modeling (BIM) with analytics and data from other sources, property managers can ensure that their portfolios run as efficiently as possible using a building automation control system.

BIM in evolution: expanding the ways and areas where BIM data matter

In a world where traditional approaches to design and construction are becoming less and less relevant, it is evident that the key to the future lies in technology.

Within the architecture and construction industries, BIM quickly shows its worth and is revolutionizing how all these sectors are conducted, but what exactly does this mean? BIM is becoming one of the critical elements in the decision-making process and the means for dispute resolution during the design phase.