Building Information Modeling (BIM) is regarded as a breakthrough in construction, largely due to its integration with technological advancements. Beyond offering new ways to approach design, BIM, when utilized effectively, can significantly enhance traditional processes such as collaboration, efficiency, and transparency, to name a few. This is because more information is available, more frequently, to more people — and it is presented more clearly.

BIM introduces information in a new dimension—3D—which is easier for a broader range of people to interpret. For example, doctors can engage early in the design process to provide input on the rooms they will use, without needing to decipher the symbols on a 2D blueprint. This makes the building information more accessible before the construction, resulting in a building that is better suited to its users' needs.

The 3D, object-oriented format of BIM (which consists of real-life elements such as doors, walls, tables, etc.) also enhances transparency, making it harder to overlook issues or conceal problems. BIM coordination, a process aimed at identifying design issues before construction begins, helps minimize unexpected costs later in the project.

Multi-disciplinary models allow more transparency to improve design and find issues early

Additionally, BIM drives the improvement of processes such as information exchange—moving from email-based communication to structured data stored in a common data environment (CDE). It enhances project management by identifying issues early, allowing them to be resolved during the design phase rather than during construction. BIM also improves quantity take-offs—not only making quantities more accurate but also providing early access to project data, which helps clients estimate construction costs sooner. Moreover, it compels contractors to create more detailed and transparent schedules, allowing clients to follow the construction process more effectively. These are just a few examples.

Blueprints, quantity take-offs and 3D models in BIM can all be linked allowing to avoid costly errors

In terms of efficiency, BIM can lead to faster design processes through reusable templates, and it enables simultaneous collaboration across multiple disciplines. Rather than waiting for one team to finish before another starts, all parties can work together on the same building model in real-time.

Collaboration between trades significantly reduces surprises during construction

The primary barrier to wider BIM adoption among clients, in my opinion, is a lack of trust that BIM will provide value rather than just increase costs. While this concern can be valid, I recommend starting with what I call the "4 Core BIM Uses": design review, blueprint creation, constructability analysis, and quantity take-off. These practices may introduce some additional upfront costs during the design phase, but the long-term benefits far outweigh them. You can read more about this in my blog post: "4 Most Beneficial BIM & 3D Uses for Small (and Large) Scale Projects."

Ultimately, the success of BIM depends on both a competent client and a capable supplier. If you are a client, I encourage you to educate yourself—whether through this blog or other resources—so you can fully reap the benefits that BIM has to offer.