For years, construction development = BIM. It is definitely the one that has been accelerating and driving the industry's development recently. Despite its growing popularity, the technology still causes some concerns, due to the myths and misunderstandings that have formed around it. Many people associate it with one particular software or equate it with a 3D model of a building. Meanwhile, the range of possibilities offered by BIM goes far beyond these concepts, and is easier to implement than it may seem. Let's explain what it really entails.
1. BIM is just a 3D model of a building
According to the ISO 19650 standard, BIM - Building Information Modelling - refers to building information management. The technology is based on maintaining and sharing digital information about buildings. In practice, BIM is a set of best practices and principles for managing information in the construction industry. It certainly cannot be said to boil down to a 3D model of a building. It's a process of information management that begins in the earlier stages of design and continues until the building is put into use. It allows monitoring the status of the developing project, as well as planning and controlling investment processes using digital technologies. In other words: BIM is about ensuring efficient access and circulation of information on the construction site - and anyone who works in the industry knows that this doesn't always look as good as it should.
2. BIM is an Autodesk BIM 360 program
Despite the coincidence of names, BIM is not just Autodesk's BIM 360 program, although some narrow the entire definition of the technology to it. BIM is used by various companies and corporations around the world. There are various BIM tools such as Revit, ArchiCAD, Bentley, Vectorworks and many others. BinderLess is also a great example of how to streamline site information management without creating a digital twin, according to BIM. The platform organizes documents into a single database that project teams can access, ensures that they work on up-to-date versions of files, and brings knowledge sharing to the platform so everyone can use it. The result? Better communication on the project and faster decision-making. And that's what it's all about.
3. BIM is a solution for big companies only
Although BIM is often associated with large construction projects, there is nothing to prevent smaller entities from using it as well. Many companies are already using BIM on small construction projects, as it allows them to more easily manage the project, including controlling the budget, schedule and quality of workmanship. In conclusion - regardless of the size of the company and regardless of the scale of the project, BIM is a tool that allows to standardize project processes and improve efficiency.
4. BIM is a tool only for civil engineers and architects
BIM is a technology that can be used by everyone involved in a construction project, including clients, officials, contractors, suppliers, etc. By exchanging and sharing digital information, it is possible to improve the quality of the construction process, increasing not only efficiency, but enabling, above all, better understanding and improved team performance during the project. It is essential to organize the processes in advance and implement tools that enable efficient document exchange. You can read more about how to organize processes to manage construction more efficiently in our text on lean construction.
5. BIM implementation doesn't pay off
The implementation of BIM is beneficial to both businesses and investors, as improved information and knowledge sharing translates into more efficient cost management, improved process efficiency and a higher quality end product. BIM translates into most aspects of a construction project, and its implementation can significantly improve the work of investors, professionals and business owners involved in construction. With an improved project planning and management process, there are time and cost savings, as well as higher quality and efficiency of work, which has a positive impact on customer satisfaction and the final business result.
As you can see, BIM is definitely not just a 3D model of a building or the Autodesk BIM 360 program, but an entire information management process that brings together many tools and people involved in a construction project. BIM is a virtual reflection of reality that goes beyond creating a digital twin, taking into account what is most important in construction - the exchange of information.
However, it is important to realize that BIM is a series of levels, starting from level 0, which means no coordination of processes and data exchange at all, to level 4, which means the implementation of smart technologies in buildings. So before we move on to designing a 3D model, we need to make sure that we have achieved a high level of coordination and ordering of processes within the company. Using the BinderLess platform, which allows for an orderly digital document approval process, can be one of the first important steps on this path.