Top 5 Benefits of BIM Software in Construction

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In the AEC industry, BIM is indispensable. However, there is a common misconception that BIM simply refers to 3D design – which couldn’t be further from the truth.

BIM (Building Information Model) is not only about 3D modeling, it is an essential process for creating and managing all the relevant information for a project.

Here are the five of the many benefits that make bim software essential to the AEC industry.

1. Improved Collaboration and Communication Onsite

Unlike paper drawing sets, digital BIM models allow for collaboration and sharing. Cloud-based technology enables seamless collaboration across all areas and disciplines of a project, and teams can share project models to effectively coordinate planning and provide insights to all the design stakeholders involved.

Access to the cloud also means that teams can move their office to the field. They can review drawings on an app on their mobile devices, which will also allow them to have the latest information at their fingertips at all times.

2. Model-Based Cost Estimations

Architectural, engineering and construction firms are becoming increasingly aware that including estimators early in the planning phase enables them to create more accurate construction cost estimations.

This realization has led to a demand for model-based cost estimating (5D BIM). Using BIM tools cuts down on the time needed to quantify and apply costs because the process can be automated. With BIM tools, estimators can now focus on higher-value factors like factoring risks and identifying construction assemblies.

3. Visualized Projects in Preconstruction

With BIM, the entire project can be visualized before any physical work begins. Simulations and 3D visualizations enable clients to see exactly what the project will look like as early as the preconstruction phase.

Being able to see exactly what a completed project will look like early on allows for changes to be made before construction begins, and having a greater overview so early on minimizes the chances of there being costly or time-consuming changes to the project later.

4. More Coordination and Better Clash Detection

With BIM, you can coordinate trades and subcontractors and detect any clashes between mechanical, electrical, and plumbing components before the physical work even begins.

Things like checking if doorways have enough clearance or if electrical conduits will clash with a steel beam are automatically detected early with BIM clash detection, which will minimize the need for reworks.

BIM allows you to plan well in the early phase so you can avoid changes and unforeseen issues when construction begins, and it allows for easy review and commenting across all disciplines involved in the project.

5. Mitigated Risk and Reduced Costs

A McKinsey study found that 75% of AEC companies who use BIM have reported positive returns on their investments, but that’s not the only way utilizing BIM can save firms money.

With BMI, reductions in tender risk premiums are a result of closer collaboration with contractors, which means lower insurance costs, fewer opportunities for claims, and fewer overall variations.

When BIM allows a more complete picture of a project before construction starts, there is room for more prefabrication and less is wasted with unused materials. Prefabricated pieces can be transported and simply bolted on as opposed to being built entirely on-site.

The cost of labor and man-hours saved on admin and documentation is greatly reduced, and so is the risk of human error and miscommunication.

Overall, BIM mitigates risk and reduces costs by ensuring that the most up-to-date information is always available to collaborators and stakeholders.

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