BIM technology is a new and innovative technique used by architects and engineers to create accurate 3D models of buildings.
BIM (Building Information Modeling) systems are often used in large construction projects, such as skyscrapers or bridges, and BIM can also be applied for smaller constructions, such as single-family homes.
Many contractors, engineers, architecture firms, and construction companies are now extensively using BIM modeling to create 3D models before construction starts.
There are many benefits to using BIM technology, but there are some disadvantages too. In this blog post, we will discuss these pros and cons and help you decide if a BIM system is right for your construction project.
If you consider implementing BIM technology into your work, the following BIM advantages can help you make a better decision:
– Reducing redundancies in the planning process
– Better visualizations for higher process engagement
– Clash detection for minimal onsite reworks
– Effective use of resources
– Easy off-site prefabrication
– Improved health and security
– Free “view only” software
– Budget tracking and monitoring
Now let’s take a look at each one of them.
Reducing redundancies in the planning process
BIM reduces redundancies during the planning process as there are fewer mistakes made by using this technology. BIM allows teams to work together at the same site with all necessary information displayed instantly without sending emails back and forth about what’s going on with certain design changes.
As a result, communication and teamwork will be improved, which will lead to better planning and design with minimal unnecessary expenses.
Better visualizations for higher process engagement
When using BIM in the planning phase, engineers and architects will be able to provide their investment stakeholders with better visualizations. They can also show future potential buyers what the completed development will look like before any construction has even started.
The BIM visualizations will help all parties to be equally engaged in the process so any concerns can be addressed ahead of time.
Clash detection for minimal onsite reworks
When using BIM, construction teams will be able to detect any clashes between the different trades and services before they happen. This is because all information about each trade or subcontractor is conveniently included in the BIM model.
As a result, you can avoid errors or reworks onsite, which significantly reduces both time spent working onsite as well as costs!
Effective use of resources
Using BIM for your construction project will allow effective use of resources and materials savings.
This is because engineers, architects, and other professionals can easily calculate the quantities required of each trade or service beforehand, so no unneeded material will be used in the construction process.
Easy off-site prefabrication
Prefabrication is the process in which smaller construction components are manufactured offsite and then assembled at a construction site.
BIM allows you to take full advantage of prefabricated parts by implementing them into your model before any work starts. With all information readily available within one digital environment, it will make setting up prefabs much easier when they arrive onsite!
Improved health and security
Using BIM in your project will lead to improved health and safety for all construction workers. This is because the digital model of the building allows you to locate and flag any potential hazards before they can even happen!
For example, electrical wiring plans are included in a BIM model allowing supervisors to ensure that no cables run over water or gas pipes.
By taking care of such areas with high risk, you will be able to adhere to the safety policies and minimize safety incidents.
Free “view only” software
BIM is not limited to professionals. It can be easily accessed by anyone with a computer and an Internet connection!
Many free BIM viewers are available on the market, which means that you don’t have to spend extra money purchasing any software if you want to view your model after your engineers or architects have set it up!
This is also helpful for any end-user who can get lifetime digital information about each component with its specific size, color, or other related data.
Budget tracking and monitoring
BIM makes it much easier for your project’s budget to be tracked and monitored. This is because all information about the different trades or services is included in one model, which can easily be converted into a ‘bill of quantities’ format. In other words, you will know exactly how much each part of your construction site costs!
BIM also allows engineers and architects to calculate future running costs so any potential reworks onsite won’t have an impact on your final budget at the end of building completion!
There are also a couple of factors that can influence your decision to start using BIM. Even though there are many benefits of using BIM, there might be some BIM disadvantages that you have to consider before actually taking action.
Here are a few BIM disadvantages:
– Time-consuming
– Complexity of the software and its associated costs
– Lack of experts
– Compatibility issues with partners
– Ignored BIM model by the client
Let’s take a look at each one of these disadvantages.
Time-consuming
The first disadvantage is the time-consuming process. The time needed on behalf of the architect or engineer to create a BIM model can be extensive.
A large majority of project managers and engineers agreed that it takes significantly more time compared with traditional CAD modeling in order for them to create accurate information within their models.
However, the time spent upfront on a BIM project can be always justified because it will save you money later on!
Complexity of the software and its associated costs
There is no doubt that using a digital modeling technique such as BIM requires some specialized knowledge of the latest software. As a result, it might prove difficult for people working in construction who aren’t used to working with this kind of technology.
So not only will you have to invest in expensive BIM software and powerful computers for processing the data, but you will also have to invest in training your staff.
It’s required more commitment from your side initially, but that’s the sacrifice you might have to take if you want to grow in your industry.
Lack of experts
There are many BIM experts around in the construction industry however, there’s still a lack of them.
Since BIM is a relatively new technology that’s not yet considered an essential part of most projects’ documentation, a limited number of experts can be difficult to find.
Compatibility issues with partners
Another BIM disadvantage is the fact that it’s not always compatible with other companies or partners working on your project. Even though there are standards for exchanging information between programs, there might still be differences in how they work, resulting in compatibility issues.
If your partners or subcontractors don’t use BIM technology, they can’t use your 3D models, and what’s even worse, you might lose chances at winning tendering applications.
Ignored BIM model by the client
Another disadvantage of BIM is that it’s possible for the client to ignore the BIM 3D model even if it’s fully done in the right way. Failing to engage with the model can happen if the end-user is not aware of the benefits of this technique or simply doesn’t understand its purpose!
So you will end up with a wasted time and effort required for producing your 3D model with all accurate details and related information for the project.
As you can see, even though there are several benefits of using BIM on your project, there are also some disadvantages that can influence your decision.
At the end of the day, there’s no perfect solution for every construction project or business out there. But one thing is certain, there has never been a better time than now to start using BIM technology within your industry.
So if you are interested in implementing BIM to your work and making your project a success, Breon can help you take the next step with your own 3D modeling needs.
Contact us today, and let’s do a successful project together while overcoming all BIM disadvantages!
Sources:
https://www.sotham.co.uk/advantages-and-disadvantages-of-bim/
https://mckenna.group/2021/02/08/advantages-disadvantages-bim/
https://www.kreo.net/blog/how-to-implement-bim-and-improve-your-construction-process
https://www.bimspot.io/blogs/how-to-implement-bim/
https://blog.allplan.com/en/how-to-successfully-implement-bim
https://www.thenbs.com/knowledge/10-rules-for-a-successful-bim-implementation
