Business Information Modeling (BIM) is more than construction technology—it’s an intricate design and building process, which allows architects to create innovative building models. And, the construction industry reaping a lot of benefits from BIM modeling.
Today, architects, designers, project managers, as well as subcontractors rely on BIM to improve the construction process. And, as the BIM technology continues to improve, and more businesses start to adopt, construction businesses are set to enjoy more benefits.
With that said, let’s look at the top benefits of BIM modeling for construction businesses.
Cost reduction and resource savings
One of the major benefits of BIM modeling for a construction business is that it offers reliable cost estimates for a project before the construction starts. Architects can rely on BIM to estimate costs for things like:
- Materials and their shipping costs
- Shipping modular or prefabricated pieces
- Labor, which included payroll-based construction timelines
In addition to giving architects a better idea of the project costs, it also allows them to identify ways to reduce construction costs, without compromising on the quality. For instance, architects can:
- Choose cost-effective materials
- Find the best time to buy materials at the cheapest market price
- Determine if it’s cheaper to build on-site or prefabricate
- Cut human errors that can cause costly repairs and project delays
- Streamline workflow in the construction site, which allows clients to pay for less billable hours
Allows you to monitor changes
Every construction project undergoes several design changes. BIM modeling allows one to monitor these modifications, thus making it easier to return to the previous design model in case the new model has an error.
With this feature, project designers save a lot of time, compared to using 2D design drawings, since they don’t have to redraw the designs again. Besides, the AutoSave feature in BIM modeling software makes it possible to secure your work before completion. This, in turn, reduces the possibility of corrupt files and forgetful minds ruining the project.
Project visualization in the planning stage
BIM modeling allows proper project visualization and planning during the pre construction stage. By visualizing and simulating the surface area through 3D technology offered by BIM modeling, clients can get a post-construction visualization, which facilitates easy modification before the construction process starts.
Since the contractor and clients will get a comprehensive overview of the project before it starts, the risk of costly and time-consuming modifications is significantly reduced.
Improved efficiency and reduced project lifecycles
There is one interesting rule in construction—the faster you can complete a construction project, the less money you’ll spend on the overall project. Besides, finishing the construction project early, and on time speeds up the eventual ROI since tenants can start occupying the space immediately.
Also, BIM modeling allows architects to design buildings within a short period, meaning the construction can start within the stipulated time. Moreover, improved workflow, as well as other efficiencies speed up the construction project. For instance, an architect can choose to have some pieces pre-fabricated in bulk with robotics. This saves a lot of time during a construction project since the contractor will need to secure the pieces in place when they get delivered on-site.
Improved communication and collaboration
According to the professionals from VIAtechnik, BIM modeling Services Company, digital BIM models make it easier to share and collaborate work, something that the traditional paper drawing sets don’t provide. By using cloud-based tools, BIM collaboration can easily take place across the different disciplines within a construction project. BIM collaboration allows construction teams to coordinate planning, share project details, and make sure all design stakeholders get an insight into the construction project.
Besides, cloud access makes it possible for the project teams to access everything they need in the field. With this, the teams can review models and drawings on-site—and this can be via mobile, tablet, or PC. This is very essential, as it ensures project teams can access up-to-date information at any time, thus reducing delays.
Better clash detection and coordination
BIM modeling allows for effective collaboration between general contractors and subcontractors, which allows a better internal and external clash detection. Contractors can easily determine whether there will be any conflicts between different areas of the construction—like the electrical conduits and steel beams. Automated clash detection can prevent possible clashes, which can be very costly.
Besides, clash detection reduces the number of reconstructions or repairs in a construction project. Moreover, BIM modeling allows proper planning before the actual construction starts. Any unforeseen issues and last-minute modifications will be prevented through a simple assessment and commenting in different fields.
BIM modeling allows safer construction sites
BIM modeling helps to improve safety in the construction sites by identifying potential hazards before they turn into serious problems. Also, BIM modeling helps to prevent physical risks by picturing and planning construction site logistics early in advance. Visual safety evaluations and risk analysis can help to promote safety in the course of project implementation.