Building Information Modeling (BIM) has become widely-adopted in the construction industry. Originally seen as a revolutionary tool for project teams and planning, BIM is now being used all over the industry. BIM is bridging the gap between construction and IT, creating efficient workflows, enhanced decision-making and overall better project delivery.
In this post, we’ll dive into what Building Information Modeling really is, and the ways BIM is changing collaboration between construction and IT. We’ll also look at why these changes are so important for the future of the construction industry.
What is Building Information Modeling?
BIM is a virtual creation of the physical and functional characteristics of a building. BIM provides a 3D model built using drawings and details that is created by using detailed information about a building’s structure, materials, systems and even operational performance. It communicates a large variety of information, enabling all involved parties to work off the same, real-time data.
BIM is essentially a virtual model of the building, where all project information is captured in one place, where all trades and involved people can see the same information. It’s a tool that eliminates common issues in construction and creates a central location for all project data.
The Role of IT in BIM Implementation
In order to maximize the full capacity of BIM, IT infrastructure is essential. Construction project teams often use IT systems and software on projects to track and organize project data and details. IT professionals manage cloud-based systems, cybersecurity and software integrations that connect BIM to the other associated IT and Project Management tools.
IT and construction teams work together to make BIM an evolving system that supports real-time updates, works with other compatible systems to receive project data and adjusts with project needs. IT presence in the job ensures that the BIM operates correctly and updates in real-time so trades and involved parties can view the updated model without issues.
Real-Time Collaboration and Decision Making
Building Information Modeling see a lot of their strength also in the ability to update and adapt in real-time. The IT team provides value by providing platforms where multiple teams can interact with the same data at the same time as needed. All involved parties and trades can view and modify model details and the overall model in real time, mitigating risks and miscommunications.
Additionally, BIM is featured to save multiple versions of the model, so older versions can be referenced as changes occur and past adjustments can be easily accessible. This prevents data loss, ensures transparency and helps teams track decisions and changes made over the course of the project.
Reducing Errors and Improving Efficiency
The use of BIM also has a significant impact on reducing errors. Construction projects are made up of multiple moving and changing parts, so small errors in one area can grow and cross over to impact the project. BIM prevents these errors by creating the model which gives all trades and stakeholders a visual of the project before the job even starts.
By creating a digital simulation of the project, teams can identify potential problems, like trade overlap, bottleneck and logistical conflicts and address them before they occur in practice. IT is essential in this step of the process, providing the digital tools that integrate the BIM model with other project management tools such Primavera P6 and supply chain management systems.
Enhancing Sustainability and Lifecycle Management
BIM is more than just creating the building model; it also includes maintaining and updating the model as the project progresses. IT tools are responsible for keeping the model up-to-date with the latest developments and changes to the job. Even after the job is complete, the model is used for maintenance, changes and review.
Tracking a building’s performance once finished is an advantage for clients and facility managers alike. BIM can help with monitoring energy usage, scheduling maintenance, or identifying areas where sustainability improvements can be made. IT teams continue to work on the building by receiving data from the active building and implementing practices and systems for maintenance and enhancement.
The Future of IT-Construction Collaboration with BIM
As BIM technology progresses, the link between IT and construction teams will grow stronger and more coherent. The future of construction is going to include advancing technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Virtual Reality (VR).
These tools will advance BIM by giving opportunities for new visual modeling and tools to increase exposure and tracking. Integrating these advanced technologies will create even more opportunities for IT-construction collaboration, allowing for smarter, faster and more efficient construction processes.
Conclusion
Building Information Modeling is becoming a necessary and useful collaborative tool between construction and IT project personnel. As BIM continues to evolve and integrate with new technologies, the gap between IT and construction will be bridged and projects will take steps into a new period of advancement and efficiency.