How Does BIM Help Build a More Streamlined Prefabrication Process?
Architecture, engineering, and construction experts know how influential prefabrication has been in recent history for streamlining building processes. Building information modeling (BIM) in prefabrication has enhanced workflows further by improving communication and collaboration.
The technologies’ powers promote digital transformation and standardization in building-related sectors. BIM and prefabrication boast results worthy of industry leadership and competitive advantage. Here’s how BIM creates a more streamlined process that leads to top-notch projects.
Photo by All Bong
Leverages Common Data Environments for Management
The BIM market will likely exceed $17.32 billion by 2030 because BIMs are accessible in common data environments (CDEs), which are sector-agnostic workspaces. The architecture team, engineering firm, and whoever else is involved may view the blueprints and assets in a CDE.
Ubiquitous access provides momentum to a prefabricated construction outfit, whereas fabricated projects rely on in-person participation or more complex communications. CDEs in BIM publicize its most prominent advantage —interoperability.
Viewers are sure models are cohesive in a CDE workspace. Everyone has access to the same content, reinforcing the legitimacy of digitizing and sharing work environments. Utilizing CDEs motivates upskilling and adoption of digital tools in traditionally manual industries.
Cross-industrial, end-to-end digitalization with BIM crafts a more fluid, reliable network of businesses in building and construction management. Construction is behind most other industries in making that shift, and adopting BIM in prefabrication is an ideal first phase.
CDEs are versatile, too, combining with corporate management software and third-party logistics to meld resources into a centralized hub.
Solidifies Quality
Quality control improves if everyone involved in a blueprint uses BIM. For example, BIM streamlines manufacturing prefab parts because of how accurate and to-scale the representation is. It allows for more precise measurements, ensuring the features are the exact size needed every time. It is ideal for industries like concrete, where the product is not malleable during installation. This is one example of how a CDE cuts excess reworking, providing high-quality construction the first time.
BIM also collects data from successful projects to help companies know the best measures for the future. Leveraging it with other resources, like machine learning algorithms, will make it even more powerful. The data may reveal future cost estimations for similar projects and recognize trends during edits to make customized recommendations.
Increased visibility over quality control improves transparency, which enhances quality in another way — industry standing. BIM incorporation affirms business relationships and new customers become loyal because using it reinforces quality and transparent outcomes.
Irons Out Communication Concerns
The number of parties involved in a build range from mechanics, plumbers, and construction workers. Coordination begins with preconstruction, where contractors need affirmation their products fit within the confines of the design. People need only run their equipment alongside the BIM instead of making assumptions or attempting to obtain answers from professionals outside the industry who may need to learn parts compatibility.
Fluid communication continues into discussions with stakeholders. They can make more informed decisions by having as much hands-on experience as possible. Investors can ask more pointed questions, make project suggestions, and have more significant visibility over the building with BIM. Satisfying them is essential for continued funding.
In prefab construction, viewing assembly timelines with contributions from supply chains, logistics and procurement departments is essential for setting accurate expectations in upcoming meetings and discussions.
Everyone receives updates or can participate in real-time collaboration if someone needs to request a revision. Once design changes are implemented, everyone is notified and can see it. BIM in prefabrication aligns all parties without excessive meetings or delays.
Shortens Lengthy Timelines
Using BIMs for prefab projects shortens assembly and field time. The BIM interface communicates countless project points that would traditionally take extensive meetings to cover. The virtual twin of the prefab model eliminates miscommunication and progress delays due to confusion because the most up-to-date representation is accessible. The CDE and collaborative workspace also reduce wait times between business-critical responses.
Midconstruction progress halts because of material shortages, budget constraints or unforeseen clashes. BIM in prefabrication makes it less likely any of these scenarios unfold. During planning, everyone from accountants to procurement has access to a structure's financials and materials list. The model is optimized before breaking ground, making it as inexpensive as possible while using a well-defined list of accessible tools and materials. Construction work produces less waste this way.
Additionally, there should not be any component or design clashing because model software highlights problem areas. For example, workers will be alerted if geothermal pipework disrupts a load-bearing support structure. Tradespeople and other relevant staff can solve these concerns before construction starts.
BIM in Prefabrication
The symbiotic relationship between BIM and prefab construction will solve numerous challenges in construction, including accessibility, pricing, and speed. These building environments must use BIM because it increases productivity, reduces wasted time and resources, and convinces industries to adopt novel technologies. These efforts deliver builds more timely and sustainably, completing projects for clients and communities that need them most.
Author: Emily Newton
