What is BIM and Why Should I Care?
BIM (Building Information Model/Modelling/Management) is one of the biggest current trends in the construction industry. The idea is simple - build digitally before you build in real life to make better decisions and create better buildings. However, of course, there is much more to it.
In my blog, I provide tips on how BIM helps in both small and large-scale projects. I also share how I used it to build my home and how you can use different tools to reap the benefits.
People often say that BIM is expensive and brings benefits only to larger projects. That is not true. As with anything, you can overcomplicate things and lose faith, but you can also start simply and achieve great results.
The main difference concerning the benefits in small versus large projects is that there are more applications for BIM in larger projects (e.g., various simulations), and, of course, the budget is larger. However, there are fundamental uses of BIM that bring benefits to buildings of any scale, and the cost of implementing them is relatively low compared to the benefits. These include 3D visualization, quantity take-off, and others.
Research and practice show that utilizing BIM in your projects has significant advantages, but for beginners, it can all feel very complicated. It shouldn't be. Where should you start? If you are thinking of building your house and the next step is the design phase, find an architect who works with BIM software like Revit. It shouldn't be difficult because architects and designers themselves have significant benefits from using BIM.
What BIM is not?
- Pretty pictures: These are called renders or visualizations and can be extracted from BIM.
- A simple 3D model: While it's a nice option for viewing your building, it lacks the detailed information associated with each object, such as windows and doors, etc.
- Specific software like Revit: You need tools to create and work with information, but there are thousands of different tools available, and they are all part of BIM.
- A miracle cure: BIM will not solve all or even a few issues if the project lacks a knowledgeable client and a competent delivery team.
In my other posts I will share my experience using BIM during the whole life cycle of my house.