Building information modeling is helping the construction industry advance and become more connected. It makes construction design more straightforward and efficient, but the benefits of adopting it go far beyond the design stage.

Construction companies that use BIM can experience clearer communication between teams, more detailed project visibility, improved integration of new technologies and stronger collaboration with other industry professionals.

Reducing Errors Through Clearer Communication

The number one cause of rework is design-related issues such as poor document management, design mistakes or last-minute design changes. When construction teams do not communicate design needs well, it increases the likelihood of mistakes or changes after construction has already begun.

BIM can address this issue and make construction teams more connected and better coordinated as a result. For example, as a digital design platform, as many team members as necessary can view BIM designs. There is no need to worry about losing design documents or accidentally working with an outdated copy.

Catching Flaws Through Greater Visibility

Additionally, BIM makes it easier to see all aspects of a design. The design team can go through different layers of a structure, such as the exterior, foundation, HVAC system, plumbing, electricals and so on. BIM also allows them to see how these different systems interact, making it easier to spot potential problems early on. This reduces the likelihood that a last-minute design change will be necessary to address design flaws.

With BIM, everyone can quickly get an up-to-date copy of construction designs thanks to the ease of sharing a digital design document. Plus, greater design visibility in BIM programs reduces the likelihood of overlooked design flaws and enhances everyone’s understanding of the project. As a result, construction teams are better connected since everyone is literally on the same page.

Supporting Structures Through Their Entire Lifespan

Construction teams that document their structures in BIM programs can keep current and future owners of the structure connected and informed about it over the years.

For instance, before buying a house, new buyers must have a thorough inspection done, particularly an assessment of the HVAC system and electricals. When a home has BIM documentation on file, inspection personnel can use this to inform and speed up their process. BIM keeps everyone connected to a structure and in the know on the details, even long after it was initially built.

Improving Industry-Wide Collaboration

BIM designs also allow construction professionals to be more connected with one another. For instance, a construction team might need to install new stair railings in a community center. They could save time by using a BIM design shared by other experts in the construction community. Industry professionals can easily share BIM designs online so others worldwide can connect and collaborate on projects.

BIM also fosters collaboration between different disciplines in the construction industry. For example, BIM has been highly beneficial for landscape architects since it allows them to plan their designs early, long before a structure is complete. Similarly, construction professionals in different niches — such as electricians and carpenters — can use BIM to see how parts of a construction project come together, fostering stronger teamwork.

Supporting New Technologies in Construction

BIM is helpful for more than making construction teams more connected — it can also make construction projects more technologically connected. IoT devices and sustainable construction technologies like green energy systems are changing how buildings work. The visibility offered by BIM programs makes it easier for construction teams to integrate these technologies into new structures successfully.

During construction, IoT devices can give information like safety-related data, structural data, and conditions inside finished areas of the structure. After construction, IoT sensors can provide data on things like HVAC performance and energy usage. BIM offers a platform for visualizing all of this data in the context of the building itself, leading to smarter construction sites and buildings.

Smarter, More Connected Construction With BIM

BIM connects construction professionals and sites, leading to stronger communication, fewer errors and smart structures. By opting for BIM, construction teams can reduce error-related costs and improve efficiency, collaboration and visibility on all projects.

Author: Jane Marsh