BIM Mythbusters: The Truth Behind 5 Common Misconceptions
If you’ve stumbled across this article, chances are you’re exploring the idea of utilizing Building Information Modelling (BIM) to take your business or life to the next level. Nonetheless, there is a host of common misconceptions about this technology that can be confusing and lead to further confusion if left unchecked.
Don’t let fear hinder you from considering a Building Information Modelling (BIM) implementation. Here we’ll debunk the top 5 myths about BIM to help you make an informed decision. Check these facts and don’t let misinformation stop you from success!
1. BIM works only for big companies or projects
This may be even the most often-heard misconception. BIM is not only for huge, complex projects. Even small projects can benefit from using BIM tools. As in any other project, the problem remains the same – it can take a lot of time and resources to calculate the design cost and evaluate the project’s feasibility. BIM helps reduce these costs by allowing for more accurate estimates and faster decision-making. Regardless of project size or scope, BIM offers tremendous value to all.
2. BIM is simply a marketing hype for 3D modeling
While 3D modeling is the most visible component of a BIM project, it is just one part of a much broader process. Building Information Modeling (BIM) involves working together to develop digital datasets that are compiled in the Common Data Environment (CDE). This information includes both graphical and non-graphical elements associated with an asset, which can then be used to generate federated models. Keeping all things in mind, BIM is more than just 3D modeling, it involves people, processes, and technology working together.
3. BIM will make you spend more time and money
Considering that no public data is available that compares the relative costs of implementing BIM against their financial benefits to this day, we need to keep our eyes open here to the full picture. BIM will require an investment in the time when you first consider it and the magnitude of the investment can be versatile for numerous factors. Some studies have shown that there is potential for 20-25% efficiency savings when working in a BIM environment. The strength of BIM lies in its ability to centralize data, providing faster and more accurate decision-making. This process not only standardizes design but also prevents many on-site issues, thereby reducing overall project risks and leading to considerable savings in both time and costs. By addressing potential challenges in the virtual environment before actual construction begins, BIM shifts the majority of the investment to the planning phase, optimizing the entire building process.
4. With BIM I will have a magic tool for clash detection
However, it does help you get to the bottom of the issue way faster. Let’s dig a bit deeper into this topic. BIM requires contributors to upload files to the Common Data Environment at pre-determined points in a construction project. This data is used to drive the production of a federated dataset and model which makes it much easier to see clashes as the work of a range of teams comes together at strategic points. BIM modeling software and integration tools allow designers to check for clashes in their models and when they are combined. This should, in theory, make it much easier to spot and rectify clashes but is no substitute for common sense (For example, some geometric clashes will always be perfectly acceptable – pipes recessed in walls before the opening request is needed, for example) and general rigor. It is obvious that it is helping a lot, but it still needs human knowledge to process the information.
5. Isn’t BIM only software?
After all, people are cautious since they assume BIM is simply software that must be set up and used, while in reality, it is is a process that affects the whole design, engineering, and building team. People, processes, and technology ultimately evolve as a consequence of BIM implementation. This data collaboration-based framework encourages collaboration across all stakeholders involved in the construction process. BIM does not represent a software program, rather it’s an evolution of technology that reshapes typical company procedures. There are several solutions and tools available, but BIM is indeed a collaborative method involving interaction, analysis, and optimization of the construction and design process.
Were all your myths busted?
There is no doubt that BIM is a trending topic when it comes to technical solutions and architecture. Many professionals benefit from it, including architects, designers, contractors, and building owners. It allows you to fix problems before they arise on site or during maintenance, but it also allows you to build faster, safer and more efficient. If you want to implement BIM in your business, it is crucial to clarify these misconceptions. Hopefully, we helped you with your potential concerns.