Overview: What you should know about Building Information Modeling (BIM) __

The popularity and importance of Building Information Modeling (BIM) has increased worldwide, not only because of digitization, but because many countries have also introduced legal regulations to strengthen the spread and use of BIM.

As an example, the use of BIM for publicly funded construction projects is already mandatory in the Netherlands, Great Britain, Denmark, Finland, and Norway. In Germany, the government is aware of the growing importance of Building Information Modeling. 

These worldwide developments are a good reason to take a closer look at the topic and the technology behind it. Find out below what Building Information Modeling is and why you should rely on it.

What's behind BIM?

The abbreviation stands for Building Information Modeling. The term describes a digital method that is used for the planning, execution, and management of construction projects. BIM planning is aimed at all persons involved in a construction project. This includes not only the planning or execution phase, but also the operation and dismantling phase of a building.

BIM represents the further development of individual digital measures in the construction industry.

The exact digital image of a building forms the basis of data collection. The 3D model, also known as the "digital twin", contains all the data that flows into the associated construction project over the course of the life cycle of a building.

All project participants have access to the virtual building data models. The BIM software makes it possible to centrally manage all information relevant to the project.

Who should use Building Information Modeling and for what reason?

Builders, construction companies, service providers, specialist engineers, building managers, and planners can use BIM to optimise their work around a building and its infrastructure.

Manufacturers have an advantage over their competitors by using BIM. You can share high-quality technical information about products, templates for tenders, and many other relevant documents for BIM with project partners.

What are these advantages of BIM?

Those who rely on BIM will benefit from the following advantages in the long term:

• All those involved in planning, construction, and operation receive a more precise performance and deadline forecast.
• Many of the tasks which were previously carried out manually can be automatically derived from the building model using BIM.
• All parties involved have permanent access to the current planning status.
• You get a reliable simulation of the construction process at an earlier point in time.
• Thanks to the software, fewer changes are made to the building model and its details.
• The collision check is easier to perform abd less prone to errors.

The use of BIM reduces errors throughout the entire life cycle of a building. With the help of the software, it is possible to prevent cost-intensive rework and rejects on the construction site. Thanks to the data storage in the 3D model, you can achieve more efficient work processes and increase the productivity of all parties involved. Incorrect or misleading information is prevented. With BIM, you reduce the likelihood of information loss during the process.

In which phases can BIM be used?

It doesn't matter what part of a building's life cycle you're in. You can use Building Information Modeling in all planning, construction, and usage phases.

However, this requires well-maintained BIM databases. These provide information that is reliable and quickly available, from preliminary planning to dismantling. These provide you with information about the physical and functional properties of the building.

Do you have to expect increased planning costs due to the use of BIM?

Many experts from the construction industry are certain that with the introduction of BIM, costs can be shifted. The shift is moving in the direction of the earlier phases of work. However, this does not increase the planning costs.

Those who are familiar with BIM ensure the reduction of planning errors and change processes. Avoiding these negative aspects can reduce costs.

Conclusion: You should familiarise yourself with BIM

With the use of BIM, you can continue to secure a clear competitive advantage. The prerequisite for this is the safe handling of the software. Building Information Modeling is also supported by the significant increase in planning, scheduling, and cost security.

BIM offers individual advantages for every company involved in the construction value chain. aquatherm is also happy to support you in the field of BIM: