What is BIM? An in-depth look at Building Information Modeling

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is transforming the way we design, construct, and manage the built environment. BIM empowers architects, engineers, contractors, and even building owners to collaborate more effectively, streamline processes, and make data-driven decisions throughout a structure’s lifecycle. Whether you’re a AEC professional seeking to improve project outcomes or simply curious about this technology, this guide will unlock everything you need to know about the power of BIM. 

What is BIM?  

BIM stands for Building Information Modeling. It is a collaborative process for creating and managing information throughout the entire lifecycle of a construction or infrastructure project. Starting from the initial planning and drafting stages to the eventual demolition of the project, BIM allows you to control, track, test, and manage every aspect of the built asset within a 3D Digital Twin of the project. As the world around us becomes increasingly digitized—from money and shopping to trade and information—it is not surprising to see the AEC industry catching up and shifting towards a digitized approach.

The principles of BIM 

The ’I’ in BIM: information is key 

The ‘I’ in BIM stands for information, and that is exactly where its transformative power lies. BIM models go beyond simple geometry and visual representations. They incorporate detailed data about building components, including specifications, properties, characteristics, the relationship between elements and even maintenance requirements. The model provides a centralized, up-to-date source of truth for any construction project, a twin if you will.

The ‘I’ in BIM emphasizes the importance of data-driven decision-making and collaboration. By using the wealth of information in the 3D models, stakeholders can make informed choices about a project, improve coordination, reduce errors, save time and optimize the performance of buildings from design and build to operation and maintenance. 

BIM objects: the essential building blocks 

BIM objects are the components that make up the 3D model. Think of them as the digital Lego bricks of your building model. They are more than just a geometrical representation of an element. A BIM objects contains data that describes characteristics, properties, and the behavior of the actual real-world elements. To illustrate their power, let’s consider an example about a door:  

1. Geometric Data: The door element contains geometric data such as its dimensions, swing direction, and placement within the model. It enables an accurate visual representation within the model. 

2. Specifications: The objects stores specifications related to the door, such as material, finish, fire rating and thermal performance. It can help make informed decisions about the selection and placement of doors based on their requirements and intended use.  

3. Manufacturer details: often, BIM objects also include information about the door manufacturer, the model number, and the supplier. It can help project teams to identify and procure the correct doors from suppliers during construction.  

4. Hardware: the BIM object can even store specific hardware information. After all, a door has hinges, locks, handles and sometimes closers. The object can store details about the selected hardware for every door in the model!  

5. Maintenance requirements: of course, the door may need maintenance. You can add maintenance requirements to the door object, such as inspection intervals, lubrication schedules, or even when parts must be replaced. This will greatly help facility and maintenance teams plan and execute their activities.  

6. Cost information: the door may also include cost-related data. Think of the price per unit, the cost of installation, and lifecycle costs. This data will assist project teams with cost estimation and budgeting throughout the whole project.  

The real power of BIM objects lies in the parametric properties. Parametric properties refer to the ability of an object to adjust its characteristics based on new input or predefined parameters. When changes are made to certain specifications or properties of a BIM object, the object will automatically update throughout the model. This ensures consistency and accuracy across the entire project!  

Let’s continue with the door example. If a modeler changes the width of the door from 91.44cm (or 36 inches) to 106.68cm (or 42 inches), the parametric properties of the door will automatically adjust the geometric data to reflect this change in the 3D model. Most importantly, related properties such as the door frame dimensions, or the hardware components placement will adjust automatically to ensure the correct alignment and functionality. Awesome, right? Parametric properties minimize the risk of errors and inconsistencies within the 3D model. It enhances the efficiency and flexibility of the design process and ensures a synchronized and up-to-date model! 

The object-oriented approach to building design enables stakeholders to visualize and analyze building designs with high accuracy. It provides early insight for architects, coordination confidence for engineers, procurement precision for contractors, and long-term value for facility managers. 

Measuring BIM Maturity: understanding levels 

Of course, implementing Building Information Modeling in your workflow doesn’t happen overnight. But how do you measure your progress? That is why the BIM levels framework exists. There are 4 levels to help you assess the extent to which BIM is implemented and integrated in an organization or project;

Level 0 BIM: Building information modeling is not implemented. There is little to no collaboration and stakeholders work independently on traditional 2D CAD drawings. This results in fragmented project information.   

Level 1 BIM: This where the initial adoption of Building Information Modeling happens. Projects include basic 3D modeling, but each discipline works with its own BIM model. Collaboration is still limited. The exchange of information is often done manually and with file-based formats. There is little to no integration among BIM tools and workflows. 

Level 2 BIM: This is the level most BIM projects are currently in. Each discipline still works with its own model, but there’s structured data exchange through formats like IFC (Industry Foundation Classes), resulting in a greater level of collaboration and coordination, reducing errors and conflicts.  

Level 3 BIM: In level 3, BIM is fully integrated. All project stakeholders work with a single, shared 3D model. This enables real-time collaboration and information exchange. By working with open data standards, seamless interoperability is possible. It leads to improved coordination, decision-making and better project outcomes.    

Why implement BIM?

Nowadays, Building Information Modeling is not just a trend. It is a strategic move that can improve your approach to project management. Let’s explore the key advantages of BIM and why it will be a game-changer for your projects: 

1. Seamless collaboration: Building Information Modeling allows architects, engineers, contractors, and other stakeholders to work together in real-time in a shared digital environment.

2. Streamline design and planning: The detailed 3D models offer a realistic visualization of the outcome of the project. They help you to better understand design concepts, identify potential issues, engage stakeholders, and make informed decisions early in the process.  

3. Reduce errors and save costs: as you work with detailed information from the start, you can detect clashes and errors early in the design phase. It helps mitigate risks and avoids costly rework during the construction phase. Consequently, it will save valuable time and resources in the long run.  

4. Improved cost estimation: BIM helps you to accurately estimate project costs by integrating cost data directly in the model. You can track project costs in real-time, identify cost-saving opportunities and minimize the risk of overrunning your budget.  

5. Promote sustainability: Building Information Modeling empowers organizations to design and construct energy-efficient and more sustainable buildings. By analyzing data such as material, energy consumption, and environmental impact, you and your stakeholders can make informed decisions to minimize your project’s environmental impact.  

6. Efficient facility management: BIM goes beyond the design and construction phase. It is an asset in the operation and maintenance phase of a structure. By capturing detailed information about the components and systems in a structure, you can manage assets, plan maintenance, and optimize the performance of the building over time! 

BIM projects have proven to be more efficient than traditional construction projects. By leveraging its advantages, you can achieve better project outcomes. Your teams collaborate better and resolve issues faster with less misunderstandings. Building Information Modeling ensures a smooth construction process that reduces risks and delivers greater value to your clients and stakeholders, even after completion of the structure! 

The Future is BIM 

While implementing BIM requires you to invest in new technology, training, and process refinement, the benefits far outweigh the costs. As BIM continues to evolve and integrate with other innovations like IoT (Internet of Things) and artificial intelligence, the possibilities become even more exciting. If you’re ready to build a smarter, more collaborative, and efficient future, Building Information Modeling is the path forward. 

Do you want to learn more about how Building Information Modeling can elevate your construction projects? Our experts can help you explore how BIMcollab can enhance the success of your projects.