BIM also helps to answer the big questions asked in the industry, such as: how do we do what we do for less? and how do we create information which is easily interpreted, used and acted upon across a whole scheme of work? BIM is the link from the digital representation of a scheme to the physical assets that the project becomes, capturing the flow of data in real time.
Construction has often been accused of being ‘slow out of the blocks’ when it comes to digitisation. With the emergence of technology to greatly improve the whole process of design, construction, operation and maintenance of a building, however, there is no turning back for the industry. One important asset is the use of Building Information Modelling (BIM) to give everyone involved in a project the means to create and share quality data.
This information economy is transforming lives, not only for the construction industry, but for end users also.
The Benefits of BIM
BIM helps to do things more securely, smarter, better and quicker. It creates a common data environment, using technology to share information models anywhere around the world. This helps construction work more globally - from the earliest stages of a business case, design construction through to in-use.
It plays a large part in optimising repair before failure in the operation and maintenance of a building. This, in turn, has an impact on helping clients get better performance from their assets and a better experience for their users.
BIM helps to give a common understanding for everyone, even when a project spans geographical boundaries. It tells a better story that can be understood by all.
The evolution of BIM and its uses
BIM’s uses haven’t been static. While it was originally seen as a means to lower costs, there is now a move toward promoting better performance in the design and construction of a scheme as well as in the operation and use. The ‘golden thread’ of BIM is the unbroken line of secure, structured data that can be a foundation for improvements, not only in a single project, but projects in the future and anywhere in the world.
As an example, BIM has been used to improve safety in the wake of the Hackitt Report through a number of concepts, firstly, with ‘soft landings’, which is now part of the UK’s BIM framework.
A soft landing involves clients and end users right from the start of the project. This improves the briefing process to meet their needs and makes it easier to constantly engage with them to test and simulate performance by digital means. It is also used when involving key stakeholders, such as the emergency services, so everyone can understand what systems are required.
Secondly, the huge value BIM offers in data sharing gives, better assurance of data. The more you can share quality data, the better efficiency and experience for everyone.
BIM in conjunction with MMC
When we consider residential construction, BIM links well with MMC. When you work with platform-type solutions, it allows them to be configured rapidly using regenerative design. It is particularly useful when moving from one project to another. The platform would use all the useful data to inform the next project, rather than starting from scratch each time. That data can then flow into product lifecycle management and advanced manufacture.
It must also be remembered that BIM is not something to be used in isolation. In terms of project management and risk management. Embedding BIM in immersive technologies means experts in their various fields can quickly identify problems and offer solutions, building appropriate checks into visual method statements.
The key principles to get the best from BIM
To take full advantage of everything BIM offers, I always recommend the following seven principles for any project:
1. Make your strategic purposes and value proposition really clear, align BIM to your strategic organisational objectives.
2. Get the basics right. The data and information that is being shared is hugely valuable and it’s vital to use it in a security mindful manner. The Centre for Protection of National Infrastructure has some very useful guidance on this.
3. Get the process for information management right. The UK BIM framework has guidance on processes for sharing.
4. Consider technologies, particularly the common data environment, which will be instrumental in the effectiveness of information sharing. Standardising this element is crucial. Buy technology appropriate for your needs and the data will create value for you. Then plan for data delivery and implementation.
5. Skills and training are crucial, as is making sure people across an operation are using the skills and training to best effect.
6. Look at existing processes and make sure that BIM optimises them, for example, to eliminate bottlenecks.
7. Consider how BIM will be used as an asset for clients and end users as well as the different parties involved in the project.
Over the next few years we will see the convergence of BIM and other technologies to create even better experiences. This generation has been known for improving already existing processes, but the next generation will be the people who are willing to disrupt this and invent better alternatives for the industry, particularly in value-based procurement. What is crucial is creating an environment that is fit for purpose and is a benefit to society, not just an asset to own.
“the huge value BIM offers in data sharing gives, better assurance of data.”
“BIM helps to give a common understanding for everyone…”