BIM Technology: 5 Ways It Has Changed Architecture

Architects, engineers, and constructors (AEC) have long been on the lookout for the technology to reduce costs, improve productivity and quality, and speed up the delivery time of the project. Luckily, Building Information Modeling has become exactly that one.

With BIM technology, an accurate virtual model of an object is digitally built. It allows visualizing what it is to be built in a real environment. As a result, AEC representatives can spot any potential issues in design, construction, operations and so on from the get-go and avoid them during the process. When finished, it comprises exact geometry and relevant data to back up the design, supply, production, and construction works necessary to execute the plans.

However, the use of BIM services goes beyond visualization and its role as a reference to lean on during the construction and afterward. It did change the architectural industry in general. Here are 5 most significant contributions to it.

#1. It Represents an Information Hub that Adds to Efficiency Gains at All Stages

BIM technology became an information hub or ecosystem that brings about increased effectiveness throughout the life cycle of a project. A building information model describes the geometry, spatial ratios, geographic data, quantities and characteristics of building elements, investment estimates, inventories, and timeline. As a result, quantities and materials’ characteristics can be extracted. Scopes of work are easily defined and distributed. Infrastructure, assemblies, sequences can be demonstrated within the whole facility or a group of them. Building documentation such as drawings, procurement information, submittal procedures, and other specifications can be easily interconnected.

BIM is viewed now as a complex virtual process that combines all aspects, disciplines, systems of an object within one virtual model. It enables all team members to perform more accurately and efficiently. In such an interpretation, BIM poses itself as the technology that first instructs about constructability – i.e. identifying if a certain design and its parts are buildable – and then helps construct it in the most thought-out way.

#2. BIM Revamps the Project Delivery Approach

BIM services are not just about software – it’s the combo of software and process. It means not just creating 3D models but making modifications in the workflow and project delivery operations. Thus, BIM implies that all the stakeholders are involved in the process. This contributes to greater efficiency and work coordination between participants who, back in the past, played as adversaries. Moreover, BIM embraces an integrated project delivery, a brand new approach to incorporate people, methodology, and business structures and practices into a collective process. The purpose of such endeavors is simple – to increase efficiency throughout the whole project life cycle.

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#3. BIM Data Serves as a Great Basis for Repeatable Processes

Another aspect of the BIM technology efficiency hides in repeatable processes. The data generated by BIM can be used to establish repeatable processes based on cost estimates, performance, and installation methods of foregoing cases. Any activity that is bespoke to a current project, such as earthmoving and steelwork, can make use of a data-centric system that BIM comprises. Moreover, BIM adds to building a digital content library within a company. The access to it saves time, helps anticipate the performance of systems and assess more accurately the desired results based on previous cases.

Since with BIM, all is digital and novel, it is possible to beef up the benefits of previous solutions. Constant elimination of problematic sides, reuse and improvement of the best practices enable constant improvement of construction companies over time.

#4. BIM Empowers Architects to Think Out of the Box

BIM technology is so powerful that it enables architects to think out of the box and hone their mastery. They are empowered to go beyond basic design rules and apply futuristic methods of designing. To construct extraordinary buildings, they can use progressive and innovative BIM software available. BIM provides all the means to rethink the potential and the extent of the facility and change their practices accordingly.

Furthermore, BIM is perfectly compatible with other emerging technologies that can only enhance the work of architects. Thus, Dynamo visual programming language enables Revit, BIM software, to create complex and layered shapes and forms quickly and effectively. Also, it works great with AR BIM apps, which is very helpful during the building process. The constructors know well what to do next and can minimize the errors.

#5. Designs Resonate with Clients from the Very Presentation

It’s not a secret that BIM exercises a marketing role, which used to be impossible with paper drawings. Thus, at the very presentation of the project, BIM technology insights clients into its capabilities from the very beginning. So, it can clearly convey such aspects as modeling and documentation, integration for construction, cost estimation, and building life cycle integration. Such an all-around approach nudges clients to make positive decisions here and now. Herewith, the object’s state-of-the-art 3D render can attract investors and get the necessary approval. If before the presentation, the team learned the wants and needs of the client, the customizable nature of BIM can get them scores at the presentation as well.

Also, to harness the power of BIM technology to the fullest, the firm can add its philosophy and signature to a project to stand out in the crowd amongst competitors. In a nutshell, BIM can do a great work of selling it at a stage of negotiations.

Building Information Modeling is a disruptive technology that changed the way architects design facilities and see them to completion. Nowadays, these processes happen faster and more effectively. Additionally, it adds to the marketing efforts of the companies and proves their abilities to accomplish the most ambitious projects. The use of BIM technically suggests joining other emerging technologies to the modeling process, which, as a result, makes companies leaders in the industry.

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Ian Diev
Content Writer, Editor at ArchiCGI

Ian loves writing about innovative 3D technologies and their impact on architecture and design. In his spare time, he makes indie music, watches obscure movies, and cooks culinary masterpieces for friends.