Key Takeaways:
- Traditional methods fall short in handling the data needed for a modern build.
- BIM is critical to staying competitive, especially for smaller firms in current years.
- Success with BIM lies in its strategic adoption and collaboration, not just the tech itself.
Interscale Content Hub – BIM’s growth trajectory is impressive, and its impact on the AEC industry continues to evolve, shaping the future of building design and construction. But why do companies use BIM?
To answer these questions, we must look at how BIM (Building information modeling) has evolved over the past few years.
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted the building and construction industries, with various regions and projects experiencing disruptions.
For example, in Asia, China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported that 30-40% of Belt Road Initiative projects were impacted by the pandemic, leading to temporary pauses and focus shifts toward pandemic containment efforts.
In India, the construction industry output decreased by about 11% due to labor mobility issues, prompting the government to extend project completion times and declare pandemic impacts as force majeure.
During this challenging period, the adoption of Building Information Modeling (BIM) software saw a notable increase.
In Malaysia, BIM adoption was highlighted as a key technological response to the pandemic’s challenges in the construction sector.
The technology allowed for a reduced physical presence on sites and facilitated the smooth continuation of projects with limited staff.
As a data-rich system, BIM provided crucial data for informed decision-making, helping mitigate global supply chain disruptions.
A BIM survey by the NBS in 2020 revealed that in the past 10 years, the use of BIM made a substantial leap from 13 to 73% in the United Kingdom’s design and construction sectors.
Let’s unpack why BIM matters even if you don’t lay a single brick personally.
Why BIM Matters for Your Company
BIM beyond the pretty 3D models you might imagine. So why do contractors use BIM? The answer is simple: A BIM model is a rich database.
BIM holds every little detail, from the type of light fixtures to the HVAC system specifications, the concrete mix strength, and even long-term maintenance requirements.
Now, let’s see how that level of centralized data can transform a construction project.
- Holistic project lifecycle management: BIM extends beyond mere design or construction phases. BIM encompasses the entire lifecycle of a building, from initial planning to ongoing maintenance. This translates to opportunities in managing data continuity, system integration, and facilitating digital transformation initiatives that span the complete project timeline.
- Focus on global standards: Adopting international standards like ISO 19650 underscores BIM’s role in enhancing interoperability. The global standard also means ensuring consistent information management practices across global projects. Aligning with these standards is crucial to fostering effective cross-border collaboration and leveraging best practices in BIM implementation.
- Advancing sustainability: In our era’s pressing climate challenges, BIM is a tool for achieving sustainability objectives, notably reducing buildings’ carbon footprints. This long-term benefit involves deploying BIM for energy modeling and resource optimization and supporting the integration of green technologies.
Benefits of BIM for Independent Consultants & Small Firms
In an industry where the smallest margins can be the difference between success and failure, BIM (Building Information Modeling) is a tool for independent consultants and small firms looking to stand out.
Here, we delve into how BIM management systems, like Autodesk BIM Solutions, serves as an asset to enhance various facets of project execution, from visualization to quality control.
Each benefit highlights the transformative impact BIM can bring to smaller practices.
Enhanced Project Visualization
BIM is like having an X-ray vision into your projects. BIM offers 3D models that are so detailed that everyone involved gets to see the same thing.
This shared view helps keep all team members on the same page, reducing misunderstandings and ensuring the project moves forward as envisioned.
So everyone on the team can see the project vision clearly and align expectations and results.
Error Reduction
Think of BIM as your project’s early warning system because it spots potential problems before they become real headaches. You could address issues when they’re blips on the radar.
This proactive problem-solving system can significantly cut down on costly and time-consuming rework.
Or, you can focus more on innovation and less on fixing mistakes, giving you a smoother path to project completion and a happier bottom line.
Streamlined Scheduling and Sequencing
With BIM, scheduling becomes less of a guessing gambling and more of a precise science.
This BIM technology lets you map out each project phase clearly and precisely so you know who needs to do what and when.
BIM orchestrates every person’s every move in the system logically and efficiently without unnecessary delays or overlaps.
Improved Onsite Collaboration and Communication
BIM enables the real-time sharing of vital information so that every stakeholder stays updated on the latest developments.
BIM keeps everyone in the loop, whether it’s a last-minute design change or an unexpected issue.
This benefit highlights the core BIM: a collaborative environment where issues can be resolved swiftly and effectively.
Increased Efficiency
We know efficiency is key to tackling bigger projects or handling multiple assignments.
And BIM automates many routine tasks, from generating detailed drawings to compiling vast amounts of data.
With BIM efficiency, you can focus your energy on more strategic activities to streamline your workflow and do more with less.
Improved Client Communication
BIM’s detailed visualizations bridge the gap between your technical world and your client’s understanding.
When clients can see and interact with a 3D model of their project, their feedback becomes more informed, and their approvals are quicker.
With BIM, you and your clients speak the same language. Your ideas and their expectations align more closely, fostering trust and satisfaction.
Better Quality Control
BIM’s clash detection and simulation capabilities are critical for ensuring your projects meet the highest standards.
You can prevent costly errors and rework by identifying and addressing conflicts in the virtual model.
This kind of control ensures the final build is of the utmost quality. It’s like having a built-in quality assurance system that safeguards your project from conception to completion.
Competitive Advantage
Being a BIM-savvy firm gives you a distinct advantage. A BIM-driven system demonstrates your commitment to using the latest technologies.
BIM also positions your firm as a forward-thinking player capable of delivering superior results.
This can be critical to winning the business and enhancing your reputation in a crowded marketplace.
Why do Companies Use BIM? Beyond the Benefits
Adopting BIM offers organizations, large and small, a clear path to efficiency, collaboration, and risk reduction.
Because BIM is not just about technology; it’s about changing how we design and deliver projects. And this benefit of BIM is fundamentally changing the way teams work.
Companies that embrace BIM are positioning themselves for success in an increasingly demanding and competitive construction landscape.
But then, the question comes; Is your firm ready to harness the power of BIM?
If you want to integrate BIM into your firm operations, consider a partnership with Interscale.
We are experts in BIM management with years of experience. This means you could benefit from adopting BIM. Why?
We, Interscale, offer tailored BIM solutions that can enhance your project management efficiency and effectiveness.
If you’d like any BIM adoption or want project growth to expand your business, we can help you.
It would also be good to receive your questions and curiosity. So you can have a deep understanding of us.
Now, you can learn how Interscale supports your BIM needs at Interscale BIM Management. Then, ask us anytime with any kind of BIM questions.
Conclusion
On the whole, the strategic adoption of BIM is transformative for construction firms. Because BIM offers profound benefits that extend well beyond immediate project outcomes.
BIM adoption signifies a shift towards more collaborative, intelligent, and sustainable construction practices.
BIM companies remain competitive and relevant in a rapidly evolving industry.
So, with all those fundamental BIM benefits, are we still finding the answer to why companies use BIM? Or, should we adopt right now to stay agile in this competitive market?
