Construction & BIM working together for the future

What Is BIM?

BIM is an acronym for Building Information Modelling or Building Information Management. BIM supports the creation of an intelligent model enabled by a cloud platform, that can be used to produce a digital representation of a building or infrastructure project.

It is a highly collaborative platform for architects, engineers, developers, manufacturers and other construction professionals to create a structure or building within a 3D model and make informed decisions based on the information derived from the model.

BIM is much more than just a 3D CAD drawing, it’s a process that involves structured and coordinated sharing of a building’s digital data throughout its entire lifecycle for better project outcomes.

What Is BIM Used For?

BIM enables you to go through the project's entire lifecycle, from planning and designing to building and operating. BIM allows you to have greater visibility throughout the construction process, providing better decision-making, sustainability, and cost savings on your projects.

One of the greatest perks of BIM is its interoperability. It provides a platform for teams across all disciplines and industries to communicate and cooperate with fluidity. Being able to work freely in a shared 3D model is one thing, but being able to add cost estimations, budget analysis, and budget tracking to the shared information model is significant.

BIM allows users to track and determine costs that will be incurred throughout the duration of the project. This includes calculating energy consumption before a building is even built, paving a clear path for an energy-efficient and sustainable future within the industry.

Why Is BIM Important?

The construction industry within the UK is increasingly adopting digital approaches to planning, designing, building, and operating in the built environment.

According to a report from theconstructionindex dated 7th January 2022, the BIM take-up within the construction industry settles at 70%. That’s 7 out of 10 UK construction professionals using the BIM technology to advance their construction projects and drive towards becoming net zero.

Construction is an expansive business, with so many different roles within the industry there is a requirement for strong training programs. This includes keeping up with safety regulations, job roles, digital advances and more. Having better educated and better trained employees will help boost productivity levels.

The importance of training within BIM technology is clear, it allows people to collaborate more efficiently while capturing crucial data with intelligence to help benefit future operations and maintenance tasks.

Implementing BIM may seem like a daunting task because changing the way you work can be challenging. But, by implementing the right steps and investing in adequate training, it can become a seamless experience by setting up participants for success.

The future of construction is only going to become more digital and collaborative, thus, BIM will lead the way in keeping up with global demand by creating smarter and more resilient designs and builds.