Leveraging BIM for Informed Decision Making Throughout the Building Lifecycle

?Introduction

Construction is one of the vast and most profitable industries in the global market. The industry has revolutionized the way it used to work before. Various technologies and processes have been introduced to execute construction projects flawlessly. However, the industry is still facing a number of problems due to the lack of advanced decision-making strategies. Poor productivity and efficiency, greater risk of constructability issues, difficulty in managing complex projects, and difficulties in achieving sustainability goals – are some of the most common problems the AEC industry is going through.

The only solution to these problems is BIM-integrated advanced decision-making strategy

Now What is BIM?

BIM - Building Information Modeling is the digital representation of physical and functional characteristics of a building and structure. A BIM 3D model contains geometric and spatial data along with information about the building lifecycle. Therefore, the shared 3D model contains all the necessary information about the design, construction, operation, maintenance, and demolition phases of a building.

This is why BIM is a transformative technology that helps in informed decision-making. The holistic process of BIM provides a single source of truth for all project stakeholders. This allows for better collaboration and coordination for multi-disciplinary project teams and helps in making informed decisions at all stages of the building lifecycle.

?Exploring Multifaceted BIM Capabilities by Moving Beyond Traditional Construction Practices

BIM transcends the conventional process of 3D modeling by providing a more comprehensive and data-rich representation of a building facility. BIM is not just 3D modeling, it involves a wide range of data-driven functionalities that can enhance the entire building lifecycle, from design, construction, operation, and maintenance.

• Design: BIM is used to prepare multi-dimensional virtual prototypes of buildings, unlike the manual process of preparing building models. These design options are further tested to identify potential clashes and optimize the design for performance and cost, complying with the client’s expectations and project specifications.
• Construction: The precise BIM data is used to create construction schedules, track progress with respect to the pre-defined schedule, and identify potential delays. These data can be stored and further utilized for similar projects. Information-rich BIM models are used to coordinate the work of different subcontractors in a single platform ensuring the building is constructed according to the design intent.The cutting-edge technology of BIM eliminates the requirement of preparing manual construction documents.
• Operation: BIM can be used to create digital twins of buildings. This digital replica of existing building systems can be used to monitor building performance, identify and troubleshoot problems, and optimize building operations. Digital twins can also be used to train and educate building operators.
• Maintenance: The BIM data can be used to prepare maintenance schedules and to track the condition of building components. This information can be further used to extend the building's life and to reduce unwanted maintenance costs.

?The Role of Visualization in Decision-making for Construction Project

Visualization is crucial in any stage of a construction project for informed decision-making. It allows project participants to perceive and understand complex data in a clear, concise, and easy-to-digest way. The 3-dimensional representation of building models helps to improve communication, collaboration, and the quality of decision-making at all stages of the construction lifecycle.

There are a variety of visualization tools and techniques that have gained popularity in construction decision-making.

• 3D models: 3D models are used to visualize the design of a building or structure far before the construction begins. This allows us to identify potential conflicts and identify areas for improvement.
• Renderings: Renderings are realistic images or videos that are created using BIM 3D models. These renderings can be used to help clients visualize the end product and make informed decisions about the look and feel of the building.
• Animations: Animations are used to represent how a building or structure will be constructed or operated over time. This can help to identify potential design errors or constructability issues and optimize the overall construction process.
• Dashboards: Dashboards are interactive visualizations that can be used to track progress, identify trends, and make predictions. Dashboards are used to monitor a wide range of construction metrics, such as cost, schedule, and quality.

?Enhancing Project Success through BIM Advanced Decision-Making

Using BIM integrated advanced decision-making strategy can enhance the success possibility of the construction project by making it more efficient, productive, profitable, and sustainable.

Here are key ways to strengthen the project lifecycle with advanced decision-making:

• Data-Driven Decisions: BIM data can be utilized to make informed choices throughout the construction project. Collate, analyze and interpret data to spot trends and relationships. This clarity empowers project participants to assess various options and make the most optimal decisions.
• Simulation-Based Insights: Employing 4D construction simulation to model complex building systems can help in predicting its behavior, and enhance decision-making. This method identifies and resolves constructability issues, optimizes schedules, and refines cost estimates.
• BIM-Powered Cost and Time Estimates: Embrace BIM technology for precise cost and time estimations. It factors in crucial variables that impact project expenses and timelines, ensuring accuracy.
• Collaborative Decision-Making: Project stakeholders can leverage Building Information Modeling as a collaborative platform for informed decision-making. This approach enhances decision quality and helps in meeting the diverse requirements which are crucial aspects of complex AEC projects.
• BIM for Sustainability: BIM supports achieving sustainable goals through informed decision-making. It helps in assessing sustainable building designs, implementing eco-friendly construction practices, and monitoring and optimizing building performance to meet sustainability goals.

?Conclusion

Implementing BIM for advanced decision-making in any construction project has a significant impact on Return on Investment (ROI). It helps in improving decision quality, reducing errors, optimizing resource allocation, and enhancing overall project and facility management. The implementation and execution of BIM is not just a technological upgrade but a strategic investment that results in substantial returns over time. Implementing BIM is a valuable asset for companies in the Architectural, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry.