Building Information Modeling (BIM) is more than just producing real-life 3D models on a computer screen, it involves integrating every dimension of the construction process and delivering massive benefits to construction professionals from the ground up. In short, BIM is a model-based process for planning, designing, building, and managing a construction process.
Not only does BIM provide a single platform for the collection and illustration of numerous dimensions of data, it ensures that the captured information remains accessible to all team members who wish to modify it while keeping the data consistent and coordinated at all times. Therefore designers, architects, structural engineers, contractors, and owners are able to work more collaboratively and efficiently than ever before. The information contained in the BIM model is also highly actionable in order to help inform decision making and has been shown to reduce change orders and field-coordination problems over a project’s lifespan.
3D and 5D BIM Technology
In an industry that once pivoted around 2-D pencil-sketched blueprints, BIM has quite literally created a modeling revolution. Not only do these high-tech computer simulations incorporate intricate 3-dimensional views of all objects, but BIM can also integrate two additional dimensions: cost and time. These 5D BIM models are arguably some of the most valuable and comprehensible planning tools available to construction professionals, allowing team members at every level to conceptualize the expense and process of construction operations over a particular time period.
BIM Becoming International Industry Standard
Around the world, BIM is quickly becoming the industry standard as more and more contractors adopt an affirmative approach to this new technology. A recent article published by Construction Week Online stated that the European Union recently encouraged all publically-funded construction projects to utilize BIM technology by the year 2016. On the other side of the world, in Dubai a similar call rang out by the Dubai Municipality that mandated BIM for all mechanical, electrical, and plumbing projects for specialized buildings and internationally-delivered projects.
Interested in learning more about 3D BIM and 5D BIM Modeling? Contact HSE contractors for additional information on construction engineering consulting services.