
Common Myths about BIM that need to be debunked – Part 1
Building Information Modelling is an intelligent 3D model based process that provides the AEC professionals all the tools and insights necessary to design, construct and manage buildings more efficiently. BIM has signified a turning point in the construction industry when it comes to changing with time and adopting digital technologies. The advantages of BIM are obvious and a lot of countries today are mandating it, yet there are a few misconceptions surrounding BIM Services which has hindered its widespread adoption.
In the current article we will be looking at the six main myths that surround BIM and stating why the AEC professionals should not be hesitant in implementing BIM and gaining an edge in today’s competitive construction sector.
1. BIM is a technology:
One of the common myths regarding BIM is that it is either a software or a technology. BIM is in fact a workflow and there are a variety of software available for it like Revit, Tekla, ArchiCAD etc. BIM provides a Common Data Environment which allows the architects, engineers and designers to collaborate and share data more effectively. BIM methodology implemented from the pre-construction stage can go a long way in increasing productivity, detecting clashes and reducing rework and errors. BIM process could also be crucial increasing profit margins and reducing project timelines.
2. BIM is just 3D modelling:
There is a lot more to BIM that goes beyond 3D modelling. The data-rich BIM model has all the information regarding different disciplines like architecture, MEP, Structural etc. The information provided by BIM regarding any given asset can be used during any stage of a building’s life cycle. For instance, MEP BIM Services provides all the details about an air cooler like its manufacturer’s details, serial number, material details all of which can be used for gaining accurate cost, facility management etc. There are various dimensions of BIM which are utilized at different points like 4D BIM is used for scheduling while 5D BIM is with regards to quantity take-offs and costing. 6D BIM pertains to sustainability and 7D facility management is useful once the building is constructed for Facility Management. Thus, BIM has gains beyond 3D visualization, it is the management of information throughout any building or a structure’s lifecycle from planning to onsite-construction to Facility Management.
3. BIM is expensive:
Whenever anything new is introduced there are certain costs which are associated with it like implementation of new software, training the new staff etc. However, when it comes to BIM there are also long-term efficacies and benefits which need to be considered. The accurate data that BIM provides for informed decision making throughout the project lifecycle can lead to reduction in time, less rework as well as can save resources and money. Moreover, today there are a variety of companies which specialize in BIM outsourcing making it possible for AEC companies to not worry about training or software costs and simply reap the various benefits of BIM.
In Part 1 of this article we have looked into the three misconceptions regarding BIM which could act as a barrier in its mainstream adoption. In the subsequent article we will be looking at the other three misconceptions with regards to size of the projects for which BIM can be used as well as address the myth regarding its adoption time and complexity.