BIM is becoming more relevant in the market of design for buildings.
As this happens the industry is attempting to stay ahead of it in order to
remain competitive. Instead of modeling on a piece of paper in 2D new design
software has proved to be much more comprehensive. In order to do so a digital
rendering is needed. This newer method of design incorporates coordination
between the separate building systems as well as performing energy analysis and
able to integrate cost estimating. These add an extra dimension allowing for
more to be analyzed prior to construction in order to maximize the potential
benefits.[1]
This BIM has caused some barriers that need to be overcome
in order for it to be implemented effectively. The most common are education
and training on how to use the software and remodifying contracts and
deliverables in order to include this process.[2]
The education and training is something that most companies
are attempting to rectify through formal education or training seminars with
their employees and clients.[3] Technical support is also imperative to the
implementation as well. This is usually offered by the manufacturer of the software
to the companies.
The restructuring of contracts and specifications will cause
anxiety in a business that is predicated on time and efficiency, any delays
become very costly. The return on investment for corporations in Japan, Germany
& France has been the highest. While U.S and U.K. have reported the lowest
in regards to implementing the new software. This is measured primarily by
overall cost, profitability and productivity.[1]
The useful nature of this modeling is now noticeable across
the industry and pushes are being made by those behind in order to catch up and
use the software to its full capacity. It is always difficult to learn a new
technique though it is promising for those introducing themselves to the
industry that this will be the future of modeling and learning it will
certainly prove beneficial to future employment.
References
[1] Eastman,
C. "Chapter 4: Owners and Facility Mangers" BIM Handbook: A Guide to Building Information Modeling for
Owners, Managers, Engineers and Contractors.
I agree that technical support and education is the root of what's hindering BIM from becoming more widespread. Most engineers and contractors are used to doing the same process and haven't changed their methods for the past 30 years, and switching over to a new system requires a great deal of effort, coordination, and cooperation from all parties.
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