Top 4 Advantages of BIM Technology in the AEC Sector

Building Information Modelling is a methodology which involves the creation of a digital representation of a building with the help of available information and data. BIM contains the virtual components and pieces of information required for the actual building construction.  It provides a platform for all the key stakeholders of the project to communicate and collaborate in all the phases of the construction. It also enables them to see the virtual 3D design of a building much before its construction begins.

The evolving nature of this AEC industry brings forward the constant adaptations of new practices and material alternatives. BIM helps us implement these changes. It helps accomplish the end of goal of a streamlined construction process.  

The initiation of BIM technology can be traced back to 1970. But the advancement in the technology started with the development of Revit Software. It digitally consolidates the project information related to the various disciplines involved in the construction. The question remains as to why BIM is so significant in the AEC sector. Below we look at the four advantages offered by BIM Services.  Following are some of the advantages of BIM technology:

1. Increased scope of implementing changes:

BIM is a geometric and collaborative technology. Here the respective information gets stored in intelligent 3D model. Thus, if there are any changes in materials and structure, BIM updates the model at all the sections and levels. BIM also increases collaboration by connecting all the stakeholders to the information in real time. It enables them to stay updated so that they can make informed decisions.  

2. Cost and time Efficiency:

The virtual representation of BIM reduces the chances of human errors in actual construction. It ensures time, accuracy and increases human productivity. The added advantage is a greater control over cost by allowing to calculate cost projections right from the onset. It is also possible to keep a check on the fluctuating cost with the add-on features and changes implemented during the virtual development stage.

3. Focusing on entire project lifecycle:

The information stored in the Building Information Model helps in covering all the stages of constructing a building. It helps in extracting data for the components and elements at the planning stage. The information can also be used during the operational and maintenance activity after the project completion. For the renovation and maintenance type of projects, Scan to BIM Services could have definite advantages. It provides accurate information of the building’s existing conditions. This also ensures a smooth reconstruction, refurbishment or restoration project.  

4. Streamlined Workflow:

The add-on advantage of BIM methodology is that when various set of relevant information are integrated into a single model using a standardized software, then, the workflow gets streamlined and reduces the duration of the work. It enables the efficient utilization of the space by providing the ability to visualize the project before its actual ground construction.

The cloud integration of the model also ensures the accessibility of the project to all the authorized stakeholders. It keeps them updated with the progress of the project. This actually saves a lot of time and efforts of the team in transferring the information to the respective stakeholders of the project.

Scope of BIM in Future:

With the increasing awareness of sustainability and the need of building more resilient construction buildings and structures, BIM ensures greater efficiency and cost effectiveness and paves a way to implement the sustainable techniques. As per the statistics provided by the United Nations, the world population would reach up to 9.7 billion which would increase the demand in the construction industry to meet the rising space requirement.

BIM has all the tools which would enable the Architectural, engineering and construction industry to meet these rising demand. Thus, many countries like United Kingdom and Denmark have mandated the use of BIM practice both for new and existing projects.

Currently, BIM has a lot of scope of development especially with respect to 4D which provides an additional dimension of time, 5D which estimates the cost and quantities and 6D BIM which reflects all the information regarding sustainability. Thus, looking at all these scopes and possibilities provided by BIM, its future in the construction industry seems to be promising.