Interscale Content Hub – Why do we need to talk at BIM for Infrastructure vs. Building Projects: Key Differences?
First of all, while the basic principles of BIM stay the same, there are some key differences in how it’s used and benefits in different contexts.
By understanding and addressing the main differences between BIM for infrastructure and building projects, stakeholders can make the most of BIM to make workflows easier, improve collaboration, cut costs, and deliver successful projects.
So, we’ll be looking at the main differences between BIM for infrastructure and for building projects. Let’s get in.
BIM in Building Projects
BIM is used in building projects to create a detailed digital model that includes architectural, structural, and MEP systems.
This one-stop shop of a model serves as a central information repository, making it easy to spot clashes, take off quantities, and visualize the finished project.
BIM’s ability to integrate all these systems into one model is pretty transformative.
It’s a solid platform that makes it easy to do important things like spot potential problems between different systems before they happen on the construction site, figure out how much stuff is going to cost, and get a clear picture of what the finished project is going to look like.
This integration lets all project stakeholders—including architects, engineers, and contractors—work from the same data set, which makes collaboration a lot easier.
This shared environment makes sure that updates and changes are updated in real-time, so there are fewer misunderstandings and less chance of costly mistakes later on.
BIM’s 3D modelling capability helps stakeholders make better visual decisions and get more accurate project outcomes.
One great example is the construction of the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. There, BIM was used to handle the complex arrangement of the structural steel frameworks.
BIM helped us catch any potential problems with the design early on, which meant we could make changes before the construction started and avoid any delays.
This not only made the process easier but also helped keep the schedule and budget on track, showing how much of a difference BIM makes to building projects.
For reference, kindly refer to “How BIM Environments be Your Ticket to Less Stress & Efficient Projects,” for details about how BIM environments can affect your projects.
BIM in Infrastructure Projects
BIM is really handy in infrastructure projects. It can do more than just construction and architectural design. It’s great for managing big, ever-changing projects like roads, bridges, and water systems.
Such projects span huge areas and rely on existing public systems and environmental protocols. BIM is the best way to meet these complex requirements.
BIM in infrastructure goes beyond traditional 3D modelling by including time-related information (4D) and cost elements (5D). This makes it easier to manage projects, with more detailed scheduling and budgeting.
This all-encompassing approach ensures that projects stay on track and within budget throughout the entire process, from start to finish.
One of BIM’s main things in this area is geospatial analysis. This is where geographic data is integrated into the BIM process, which helps visualise and plan infrastructure projects spanning large areas.
This is important so new buildings don’t mess up existing utilities or break the rules.
For example, combining BIM with geographic information systems (GIS) makes analysing and making decisions easier. This ensures that a new highway aligns correctly with existing geographical features and infrastructure.
Plus, BIM makes it easier for different groups to work together, like government agencies and public bodies, because it gives them a way to share information and make decisions.
This kind of coordination is really important in projects like the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge retrofit.
The bridge has four main parts: the 385-meter single-tower, self-anchored suspension span, the 1.6-mile dual box girder skyway, the 467-meter Yerba Buena Island transition structures, and the 406-meter Oakland touchdown approach.
BIM was a big help in sequencing construction phases and integrating structural components. It showed how BIM can help with the complex logistics and engineering involved in large-scale infrastructure projects.
BIM is a great design and documentation tool and a strategic asset in managing the complex processes involved in infrastructure development. It’s an indispensable tool in modern engineering and construction.
Just to give you a heads-up, you can find out more at “The BIM Lifecycle: A Smarter Approach to Building from Start to Finish“ to explain why the BIM lifecycle is important for infrastructure projects.
Comparative Analysis: Building vs. Infrastructure
| Feature | Building Projects | Infrastructure Projects |
| Project Scale | Smaller, more contained | Larger, more expansive |
| Complexity | Moderate | High |
| BIM Focus | 3D modeling, clash detection, energy analysis | 4D scheduling, 5D cost estimation, asset management |
| Stakeholders | Primarily architects, engineers, and contractors | Diverse stakeholders, including government agencies and public |
| Data Requirements | Primarily building-specific data | Geospatial, environmental, and regulatory data |
The table above shows the main differences between projects based on their scale, complexity, and focus.
Building projects usually involve a smaller, more contained environment, making it easier to plan the architecture and interior design. This is mainly for the benefit of architects, engineers, and contractors.
BIM uses 3D modeling to make sure that things like electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems don’t clash with each other. It also does energy analysis.
On the other hand, infrastructure projects require a broader application of BIM because they’re larger and more complex.
These projects include roads, bridges, tunnels, and utilities, which require integrating lots of geographical and regulatory data.
BIM in these projects also helps project managers keep track of schedules and budgets for projects with lots of moving parts.
The stakeholder group is also more diverse, with government agencies and the public involved, so there are more concerns and expectations to manage.
One good example is the Crossrail project in London, which is one of Europe’s largest infrastructure projects.
BIM played a really important role in coordinating the construction of an extensive tunnel network.
The project used BIM to show how the project would unfold and to test out different construction phases. This meant that all the infrastructure components were perfectly in sync and met all the regulatory standards.
This example shows how BIM can handle complex, multi-layered projects by providing a platform for better communication and more precise management of large data sets.
How Intercale Helps You Utilize BIM in Every Projects
At Interscale, we offer custom BIM solutions that adapt to the specific needs of both building and infrastructure projects.
With years of experience in BIM management, we at Interscale will make sure your project uses the latest technology and strategy.
Our strategic BIM implementation is designed to get the best results for your project, whether it’s the detailed architectural needs of a building project or the large-scale integration required for infrastructure.
Clients like K2LD Architects have seen the benefits of Interscale’s customized BIM management, which has made their architectural processes easier and helped them deliver projects more effectively.
If you want to know more about what we do, we’d suggest doing a background check. For the initial phase, check out our Interscale BIM management service page.
You can also talk things over with us. Just book an appointment on our website. We’re here for you 24/7.
Conclusion
Knowing the difference between BIM in infrastructure and building projects is key to getting the most out of this awesome tool.
The two areas require different approaches because they’re so different.
At Interscale, we know both fields inside out, so we can help you navigate the BIM landscape and make sure your project is a success.
Once we understand these differences, we can really see the key differences between BIM for infrastructure vs. building projects.
