Everything you should know about BIM

What is Building Information Modelling?

Building Information Modelling

Building Information Modelling (BIM) is software that provides a digital characterisation of the physical and practical aspects of a location. It is supported by various tools and technologies that help formulate the representation of construction data. BIM extracts data that describes the physical aspects of a building and uses this information to make and support decisions regarding building assets.

At the very core of its existence, BIM software is essentially 3D modelling data extracted from buildings. Initially, the building design was made using two-dimensional drawings that depicted planes, sections and elevations. BIM enhances this by adding width, depth and height. Time is taken as the Fourth Dimension and the estimated cost as the Fifth Dimension. Newer models of BIM software include sustainability analysis as the Sixth Dimension(6D) and life-cycle management as the Seventh Dimension(7D).

BIM deals with the entire environment surrounding a building. It covers more than just the design of a building but also the geographical location, analysis of light, geospatial relationship between components, properties of the building and information such as the name of the brand, suppliers, manufacturing details, etc.

What are the applications of Building Information Modelling software?

BIM software can be used in any industry related to infrastructure and construction

BIM can be used for almost anything that is part of the Building and Construction Industry such as:

  • Building Design and Architecture
  • Landscaping and Land Surveying
  • Structural and Civil Engineering
  • Rail and metro transportation Engineering
  • Bridges, Tunnelling and Subway architecture
  • Roads and highways
  • Marine and Offshore Architecture
  • Energy Industry
  • Smart City and Urban life planning

Benefits of using Building Information Modelling

The benefits of using Building Information Modelling software

BIM is being used more and more often in the construction industry. There are so many ways to make use of this software. Here are some of the reasons why we should embrace this software for better.

  • BIM can monitor real-time data that is captured from the building and its surroundings.
  • BIM can be used to detect and avoid errors at an earlier stage before construction is started. Issues found in the later stages can prove to be costly.
  • BIM allows the workflow of different processes to occur simultaneously in the life cycle of the building process.
  • New methods of data sharing and architecture.
  • Provides an actual visualisation of building components and its surroundings during the process of modelling.
  • Accentuates the workflow process and greatly improves the management and communication between different parties in the same project through reports and schedules.
  • BIM can also be used to point out ageing materials, defective pieces and the time of installation.
  • It can substantiate whether a temporary construction is needed or not.
  • BIM is used as a tool for estimating costs, savings and budget of construction projects.

To sum it up, Building Information Modelling(BIM) software is a 3D modelling software that makes the process of creating a design and building infrastructure into an effectively handled process. Those using BIM can create a building project where the timeline of the entire project starting from the founding of the project until its eventual demolition is recorded. Designers can work using this software from anywhere they want to. BIM has real potential to take the construction industry to new heights.

Please check out:

Using drones in the Construction Industry

Technically Reviewed by Rajesh Pagadala, MS, Founder & CEO - BuildersMart.