Advantages of BIM for Contractors
The AEC industry has been buzzing about BIM for some time now. Though much has been said about BIM in the construction industry, there is still a misunderstanding about how it may benefit contractors. It is a widespread misunderstanding that BIM simply refers to the 3D design or that it is only a technology (though 3D models are indeed at the core of BIM). An output of BIM is the Building Information Model (BIM), which comprises digital representation for all of the physical aspects of the project. BIM can be simply defined as the process of creating and managing all the information associated with a building or project.
Even while BIM is most often linked with the design and pre-construction phases of a project, it offers real value across the whole lifecycle of a project, not just the final stages of construction. Virtual construction eliminates many of the inefficiencies and difficulties that come throughout the building process via the use of Building Information Modeling (BIM).
Despite its growing importance, how will BIM be used on the construction site? We have compiled a list of ways in which building projects might benefit from utilizing BIM.
Virtually Construct during Preconstruction
It is possible to dive inside a building even before it is constructed using 3D visualization?and digital models. It's much quicker for everyone to see problems in 3D than it is in 2D. Effective communication makes it easier to discuss even minute issues. Visualization tools may help you prevent misconceptions, bring people together around a solution for implementation, or properly communicate a notion.
A virtual tour, for example, may make all the difference in preparing construction workers for the site's obstacles. If you're working in a group, it's worth your while to consider things like difficult-to-reach regions, duties at height, appropriate signs, and the need to move large equipment. Working in limited or narrow places, for example, might benefit from meticulous planning for safety.
Boost Communication and Collaboration in the Workplace
Digital BIM models enable sharing, collaboration, and versioning in ways that paper drawing sets do not. Using cloud-based tools like Autodesk BIM 360, BIM collaboration can occur seamlessly across all disciplines within a project. Since a single shared model is used across all stakeholders, the teams can seamlessly coordinate, plan, and ensure all the stakeholders have insight into the project.
The use of Cloud-based tools allows the project team to access the updated project information anywhere from the field, thus improving communication and workplace collaboration.
Clash Detection & BIM Coordination
BIM allows better coordination among trades and subcontractors, which allows visualizing if there are any MEP, internal, or external clashes before construction starts, or if there is a steel beam near the ducts, will they get in the way? Do the doorways have enough room? etc.
Avoiding clashes can cut down on the amount of rework that needs to be done on-site. BIM Coordination allows reducing material wastage and additional re-work onsite. With BIM, we can plan it right before you start building it on the ground. It also avoids last-minute changes and problems by making it easy for people from different fields to review and comment on your work.
Improved Construction Sequencing/ Scheduling
Using BIM can save time by shortening the project construction cycle and cutting down on construction schedule setbacks. BIM-enabled construction allows design and construction documentation to be done at the same time, and the documentation can be easily changed to fit new information, like changes in the site conditions. Construction schedules can be accurately planned and communicated to ensure better coordination, and projects are more likely to be done on time or even early.
Precise Model-based Estimates
Preparing a good estimate is the best way to win construction bids and keep the business moving. It is possible to avoid compilation errors and speed up readings by taking quantities from the model and putting them in a list. For example, using a digital model of the structure, it only takes a few minutes to figure out how much concrete is in a building's foundation. Using BIM can help you stand out from your competitors and make your projects more efficient and precise.
Including Cost Estimators early in the construction phase allow better planning and construction cost estimation. With the use of BIM model-based cost estimation or 5D BIM Services, the time consumed for quantification and costing has significantly reduced and allowing cost estimators to focus more on the possibilities of using construction assemblies and computing the risk associated.
Added Safety on Construction Sites
BIM can help improve construction safety by pointing out hazards before they become problems, and it can also help avoid physical risks by seeing and planning site logistics before the work begins. Visual risk analysis and safety evaluations can help make sure that the project is safe while it is being executed.
Increase Productivity with Prefabrication
BIM data can be used to quickly make production drawings or databases for manufacturing, which allows more prefabrication and modular construction technology to be used. By designing, detailing, and building in a controlled environment, you can cut down on waste, increase efficiency, and save money on labor and materials.
Better Building Handover
The information associated with the digital model streamlines the process of facility and maintenance management for the entire life cycle of a building. The BIM data generated during the design and construction stage can be connected to FM tools like Autodesk BIM 360 Ops, IBM Maximo, etc. for post-occupancy facilities management purposes. Projects that use BIM have a better chance of succeeding and are more effective at every stage of the project lifecycle and even after.
About BIMEX Engineers
We are a multi-disciplinary BIM Consulting firm, who helps our clients design and build better projects with time savings and cost reduction using BIM. With our VDC &?BIM Services, we make ourselves responsible for helping new firms implement BIM and get the full potential in their projects.