BIM & DE - How much does it cost?

I am often asked how much BIM (Building Information Modelling) and/or DE (Digital Engineering) would cost to implement on a project- or business level.

First things first, BIM is a process and not a software application (although it is supported by it). DE is the collection of skills and strategies that deliver the digital project.

Let's think of DE as the vehicle that delivers your project while BIM is the set of road rules that governs the way in which you do it. Now, to deliver 20 passengers from point A to point B can be done in a single trip using a "people mover" or a bus, while a small electric vehicle (might run cheaper but) would require multiple trips, take more time and is generally not suitable for the particular task. Both vehicles have their pro's and con's, but when used in the right application, delivers greater efficiencies (comparatively).

What would the cost be of NOT using efficient strategies to deliver your project(s)? This should be the question. The distance from point A to point B remains the same, it's how efficiently you get there. It should therefor not cost you (or your client) more but the same. Yes, I know you disagree. Consider the following: Did the price of groceries decrease when shops stopped supplying plastic bags (or any alternative carry bags) for your groceries? No, you now pay extra for "environment friendly" bags while the retailer saves money - which was previously spent on providing these bags. All for a good cause, I agree, but look at the cost saving, where did it go? Not into your pocket. Is anyone complaining?

So when delivering smarter and more efficiently, should you charge less (or more)? The end-product is the same, if not improved. It's the journey to get there that was made simpler and smarter.

We should market the benefits of "eco-friendly" Digital delivery and the positive impact it makes in our (AEC) environment. There are far more insights into projects through DE and consistency through BIM. What is the value of this throughout the project life-cycle (not only the design life-cycle)? Offset this against the initial cost difference to deliver using smarter systems (and acquiring / developing the skills to drive it) and you might find it to be in your favour.

Finally, I ask again: Can your business afford not to?