What is BIM and How can it benefit my company?
While BIM might seem daunting to those unfamiliar with the concept, it is, in fact, relatively easy to understand. Building Information Modelling (BIM) is the term used to describe the methodology of managing data within a building project. BIM not only encorporates 3D models but also utilizes the information within those models which can be captured, managed and exchanged. According to ISO 19650 Building Information Modelling (BIM) is ‚Use of a shared digital representation of a built asset to facilitate design, construction and operation processes to form a reliable basis for decisions.’
What are the benefits of BIM?
There are multiple benefits to BIM, some including:
- Enhanced Collaboration – BIM fosters a unified platform where all stakeholders can access and update project data. This reduces miscommunication and ensures everyone is working from the same source of truth.
- Improved Visualization: With 3D modeling and simulation capabilities, BIM helps clients and teams visualize the final product before construction begins, aiding in better decision-making.
- Reduced Costs and Waste: By identifying clashes and inefficiencies early in the design phase, BIM minimizes costly errors and material waste during construction.
- Faster Project Delivery: Streamlined workflows and automated processes accelerate timelines, allowing for quicker completion without compromising quality.
- Lifecycle Management: BIM supports facility management long after construction is complete. The model can be used for maintenance scheduling, renovations, and even energy performance analysis.
- Regulatory Compliance
- BIM helps ensure that designs meet local building codes and standards, reducing the risk of non-compliance and rework.
Unlike traditional blueprints or CAD drawings, BIM models are dynamic and multidimensional. They incorporate geometry, spatial relationships, geographic information, quantities, and properties of building components. This allows for real-time updates and coordination among architects, engineers, contractors, and facility managers.
How do I start my BIM journey?
Kaulquappe’s web-based Common Data Environment (CDE) is big® (Building Information Grid) and is designed to unify project data into an intelligent, accessible digital twin of a building. big® seamlessly combines models from different disciplines and optimizes interaction through data annotation, visual dashboards, and 4D simulations allowing visualisation of the project for the client and project participants. This visualisation allows for plausibility and correctness through visual inspection. An importanat feature of big® is clash detection and the communication of change requests in order for models to be revised and co-ordinated amoung the various disciplines. big® integrates with tools like BIM360, SharePoint, thinkproject, Power BI and Power Automate and has many functions that will assist your team to reach its BIM goals.
The Future of Construction
As digital transformation continues to reshape industries, BIM stands at the forefront of innovation in the built environment. Governments and private sectors worldwide are increasingly mandating BIM for public infrastructure projects, recognizing its potential to deliver smarter, more sustainable buildings.
