BIM
Building Information Modelling

BIM is a methodology; BIM principles support the adoption of collaborative behaviours and practices, connecting intelligent design to information-based technologies, to unlock efficient ways of working throughout the project lifecycle.

BIM is about information; It has to relate to a Building project; it should be rich in non-graphical information; and it should be built with reference to a 3D Model.

It creates a 3D representation of your project that can contain all the information relevant to that project. You can use this model to provide traditional plans, sections and elevations. Schedules are produced from a co-ordinated information model made up of ‘real’ parametric objects.

The data embedded in a BIM object may vary by object, but generally includes the following:

• Geometry of the object: its shape, dimensions, angles and geometric properties. This information is used to create 3D models of the building and to determine the location of various elements.
• Physical properties of the object: its mass, density, volume, thermal and acoustic resistance, electrical conductivity, etc. These properties can be used to model the physical performance of the building.
• Object components: walls, doors, windows, ceilings, floors, stairs, electrical panels, etc. This information may include dimensions, materials, physical properties and manufacturing specifications.
• Operational data: BIM objects can also include information on building operations and management, such as energy performance data, maintenance information, maintenance schedules, instructions for use, etc.
• Metadata: ownership information, creation dates, authors, access rights and version information.

In short, the data embedded in a BIM object is considerably varied and can include geometric, physical, component, operational information and metadata. This data is used to model the building, plan its construction, monitor its performance and manage its operation.

With the use of Building Information Modelling (BIM), you can realize your projects faster, more efficiently and with high quality. BIM allows you to bring together all the information of your construction project in a single digital model that can be used from planning to execution. Conflicts can be identified and resolved at an early stage, which saves you time and money. BIM also promotes collaboration between all project participants and ensures transparency and clarity in all decision making.

The benefits of using BIM are multiple:

• Better collaboration and coordination between the various stakeholders involved in a construction project, including architects, engineers, contractors and owners. This can help to avoid errors and delays.
• Better quality and accuracy, BIM allows for a more accurate and detailed design of the building, which can improve the quality of the project. Design errors can be identified more quickly and changes can be made more easily.
• Reduction of construction costs by identifying potential problems before the start of work on the site. This can help avoid delays and last-minute changes.
• More efficient management of resources needed for construction, such as materials, equipment and labour.
• Better visualisation and simulation of the building, which can help stakeholders better understand the project. Simulations can also be performed to assess energy efficiency, fire safety, ventilation, etc.
• Improved maintenance and asset management with information tracking on equipment and materials used in construction.