What is BIM?
BIM stands for Building Information Model. BIM is a digital representation of the physical and functional characteristics of a building. Or simply put, BIM is a system in which all information about a building is recorded and managed throughout its lifecycle; from planning and design to construction and operation.
An important aspect of BIM is 3D modelling. BIM models contain detailed information about building components, including materials, quantities and (energy) performance data. BIM is not only useful in the design and construction phase; it also supports facility management by providing accurate information about the building’s infrastructure, which in turn is useful for maintenance and operation.
An important difference with an ordinary building drawing, is that BIM not only has a geometric dimension. It also displays information about the properties of the various elements and components of the structure.
What is BIM?
BIM originally is the abbreviation for Building Information Modelling, but the term building information model is also being used sometimes. Both names mean the same thing and already give away a little of what BIM is: a digital model that forms a virtual representation of a building. The model consists of objects, to which information is linked.
An important difference with an ordinary building drawing, is that BIM not only has a geometric dimension. It also displays information about the properties of the various elements and components of the structure. Think of colours, materials, technical properties and the relationship to other objects.
Take a wall, for example. In BIM, you can record not only where it should be built, but also the material it will be made of (reinforced concrete, masonry), what it will cost to build the wall and the colour of paint you will use to paint it. All object-oriented information can easily be linked to things such as foundations, construction phases, functions, the required structural strength or the connection to surrounding objects. The various parties involved in the building process, from contractor to architect and from window-frame maker to mason, can add information to a BIM model.
BIM-viewers
The models can be viewed in a BIM viewer. This is a special tool that, with a few mouse clicks, shows all the information about the construction. Moreover, the client can use the tool to see whether the work has been delivered as agreed. With a BIM viewer, you can quickly see whether all the data required for the proper execution (information delivery specification) of the project have already been processed in the models that your construction professionals work with. That way, you always know what stage a project is in. With a BIM viewer, you can also easily share and discuss models and current projects with project team members, colleagues and authorised external partners (e.g. subcontractors and suppliers).
Many viewers have various display options. For example, you can choose to show the model of the architect or structural engineer separately, but also show all models integrally.
There are various BIM viewers on the market. Dalux is a much-used viewer, mainly because of its user-friendliness and relatively low entry threshold. But the Rolls-Royce among BIM viewers is the Autodesk Forge 3D Viewer. This BIM viewer offers freedom of model format (you can choose IFC or RVT) and provides advanced development tools that allow you to check the properties of all objects in a model against the calculations made.
In addition, it is possible to view and analyse the individual elements of a building in detail by virtually splitting the drawn structure into different components. You can also use the tool to show horizontal and vertical cross-sections of a structure and take a virtual walk through the building.
Difference between open BIM and closed BIM
BIM has two variants: open BIM and closed BIM. Open BIM uses open standards and file formats, allowing different software systems to communicate with each other. This allows different construction partners (such as architects, engineers and contractors) to exchange information even if they do not use the same software.
With closed BIM, all construction partners use the same software or a suite of integrated software from the same vendor. This has advantages in terms of consistency and integration. After all, all data remains in the same format and is managed within one platform. The disadvantage of closed BIM is its limited flexibility, as the construction partners involved have to adapt to specific software tools. This can make data exchange with other platforms more difficult.
The choice of open BIM or closed BIM depends on the specific needs and preferences for a construction project, but the use of open standards such as IFC can significantly improve collaboration and efficiency in the construction industry.
IFC files: crucial in open BIM
An important file type within open BIM is the Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) format. IFC files are designed to exchange construction information in a neutral and open way. This makes the data accessible to all parties involved. By using IFC, construction partners can collaborate more efficiently, even if they use different BIM software.
The advantages of BIM
Working with BIM has many advantages for building contractors and all other stakeholders involved in a construction project. We explain the most important ones.
Drawings are always up to date
BIM allows you to immediately implement approved changes in drawings and objects in the rest of the model. You therefore do not have to continually check manually whether drawings are still up-to-date. That saves a lot of time, phone calls and e-mails.
Reduced failure costs
Due to the density of information and the possibility of updating that information quickly and easily, BIM reduces failure costs. You notice any design errors earlier and do not have to make major structural alterations afterwards. That saves money, but it also reflects positively on the reputation of a construction company, contractor or project developer.
Better cooperation
BIM stimulates and streamlines cooperation between the various parties (architects, project developers, contractors, subcontractors, suppliers) involved in a construction project. Instead of them all operating from their own little islands, all parties involved can share information and share the results of their plans and work. Exchanging data is faster and easier. There is no need for a major translation. The result? More mutual understanding and a greater chance of an end result that satisfies everyone.
Enthusing effect
With BIM models, you present visualisations of a construction project at an early stage. This often has an enthusing effect on stakeholders and clients. They see in concrete terms what is planned and can quickly give feedback on designs. A BIM model is therefore a powerful tool for an architect or project developer to convince a client of his vision.
Time saving
The use of BIM offers significant time savings as it revolves around one central point of information. All project data are stored in a shared model, giving all relevant construction partners direct access to accurate and up-to-date information. This prevents miscommunication and failure costs. Bottlenecks can be identified and resolved early, resulting in shorter construction project lead times and higher efficiency.
All information in one central place
Because everyone works in the same BIM model, all relevant information about a building project (materials, dimensions, colours, suppliers) can be found in one central location. You build up a digital library of information, as it were. Chain communication improves and unnecessary research is a thing of the past. Because BIM ensures that you work with the same standards (IFC) in every phase of the construction process, it is also easier for builders to ensure a consistent level of quality.
Easier maintenance
A BIM model continues to provide added value, even after the construction work has been completed. Has something broken down, for example? With BIM, you immediately have the information you need to carry out a repair or replacement. You no longer need to take extra measurements or dig through a thick paper file to find the right information. Instead, you find everything you need to know in the BIM model.
BIM in summary
Building Information Modelling (BIM) is a digital method for designing, building and managing construction projects.The use of BIM has now taken off, with the majority of Dutch construction companies already working with the technology. Logical too, given its many advantages. For instance, the 3D models used by BIM contain valuable and detailed information about building components and their properties. In addition, open standards such as IFC files are used, making various software applications compatible. Also, BIM viewers allow construction partners to view and analyse the model without specialised software. Just on the construction site.
Haven’t made the step yet, but would you like to get started with BIM within your company? Then try it out for free in Prostream.