BIM & digital transformation in construction
Whether you’re new to the built environment industry or have been working in this sector for years, you’ve probably heard of BIM. BIM is a term that’s become somewhat pervasive throughout the industry, but let’s break it down to the basics: what does it actually mean?
OVERVIEW
Traditionally, the construction industry was a highly fragmented field with collaborators working individually, only to discover that additional changes must be made to avoid clashes, duplicates and errors. While traditional paper drafting was rapidly replaced by Computer-aided design (CAD), Building Information Modeling (BIM) is more disruptive and is becoming de facto the next generation of digital modeling that allows architects, engineers, contractors, and manufacturers to work together as a team. Working linearly has its benefits, but BIM offers greater freedom through greater transparency across all elements of the team.
More than simply providing a blueprint for design, BIM technology combines the creative design elements implemented by architects and engineers with project management tools that save all stakeholders time and money. Now, all users can work collaboratively in real time, allowing for greater transparency on design, functionality, and timelines thanks to the benefits of working with a single, shared file. All elements of a project are brought together in one file – from architectural design and sustainability performance data to materials and timelines for delivery and construction – allowing for easier communication among all parties. Significantly, clash detection allows team members to identify and solve spatial problems with design or material functionality before arriving on site.