Although many think Building Information Modeling (BIM) is just another Computer Assisted Design (CAD) program, it actually goes well beyond that. In fact it goes well beyond software alone because it is shaping the design process itself. The best way I can sum it up is “BIM is an architectural process of Virtual Design and Construction that through the heavy use of technology integrates and connects information with the virtual model.”
BIM ADVANTAGES
- 3D collaboration with all members of the team with automated detection of clashes. e.g. Is the service void designed by the architect sufficient for the M&E services.
- Visualization of projects to enable greater understanding of all members of the team. For example, it is far easier to schedule scaffolding requirements looking at a 3D model than in 2D.
- 4D visualization i.e. linking the 3D model to the programme to explore logistics.
- Faster to incorporate change into a Revit (3D) CAD layout as no need to update loads of individual drawings.
- 5D potential introducing costs into elements of model e.g electronic drawing take-off.
- Ability to incorporate additional information into model elements e.g maintenance and life span information for Facilities Management or sustainability information, etc
BIM DISADVANTAGES
- To be effective you need all major members of design team on significantly earlier than is often the case.
- BIM is more of a philosophy and not just a piece of software. Many people don’t understand this. Construction is often slow to understand and embrace change.
- New protocols will be needed for managing information transfer and commenting, potentially new roles such as BIM Coordinators (much more than a document handler)
- Problems over information ownership and design responsibility within the model.
BIM is here to stay but it is going to be a long time before it is the norm in a similar way to CAD now being the norm over hand drawn designs today.
