B2: Group C - Mridul

Building Information Modelling (BIM) is “An integrated digital process providing coordinated, reliable shareable data throughout all project phases, from design through construction and into operation.”[1] BIM applies to all aspects of the construction of a building, from the design, the estimating, the supply chain, the delivery of goods during the build, the build process, the resource allocation, the productivity requirements to meet targets. Unlike CAD, which uses software tools to generate digital 2D and/or 3D drawings, BIM facilitates a new way of working: creating designs with intelligent objects. Regardless of how many times the design change or who changes it, the data remains consistent and coordinated. Models created using software for BIM are intelligent‖ because of the relationships and information that are automatically built into the model. Components within the model know how to act and interact with one another.

Owners and facility managers can use information contained in the models to perform a variety of complementary tasks, including energy or environmental analysis, visualization, construction simulation, and improving the accuracy of documentation. In addition, BIM also helps to engage in innovative new project delivery strategies, such as Integrated Project Delivery (IPD). Early access to the rich information in the models helps owners gain more insight into their projects. As a result, they can make more informed decisions much earlier in the planning, design, or construction. [1]

BIM changes the way companies work both internally and externally. Projects have become more and more complex, requiring firms to manage and share immense amounts of data across diverse and distributed teams. By enabling greater insight into the project at any point in its lifecycle, BIM helps to improve accuracy, efficiency, and productivity, resulting in time and cost savings. Therefore, BIM can provide owners and facility managers benefits such as faster project approvals, more predictable outcomes, sustainable designs and analysis services. [2]

In conclusion, adapting to the advantages BIM offers requires investment in staff, processes, and technology which will definitely improve the quality and productivity of the projects for the owners and the facility managers.

References: 

1)      "BIM CASE STUDIES FOR ASSET AND FACILITIES MANAGEMENT." BIFM. Bimacademy, 1 Sept. 2015.

2)      Chapter 4: Eastman, C. (2011). BIM handbook. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley


Comments:

    Mohammed Alqallaf, 

      I completely agree with you that BIM is the future of the building design/construction. It not only helps contractors with clash detection, quantity takeoff, cost estimation, construction analysis, planning, integration with cost and schedule control, but also help contractors with faster project approvals, more predictable outcomes and sustainable designs. Overall your post was concise and to the point. Also, I liked how you compared your personal experience with the topic. 

    Eduardo Borja,

      I really enjoyed reading your post. It was concise and provided with helpful information. There are many advantages of using BIM. I agree that BIM can lead to true integration between design and construction. For instance, it can help the contractors with faster project approvals, sustainable designs, cost estimation and construction analysis. All the statements you wrote make complete sense and the example makes it easier to understand the use of BIM in the construction industry.