You’ve probably heard or seen “BIM,” but what exactly does it mean? BIM or Building Information Modeling is an intelligent 3D modeling process where geometries are enriched with information and controlled parametrically. It provides professionals in the architecture, engineering, and construction industry the insight and tools to plan, design, construct, and manage projects.
Let’s not be confused between BIM and 3D modeling programs! Rhino or SketchUp are some examples of 3D modeling that doesn’t support BIM whereas, ArchiCAD, Vectorworks, Revit, or AutoDesk BIM 360 are platforms that support BIM. However, BIM also pertains to the digital process that optimizes the life cycle of a project, from design development to maintenance.
Who uses BIM + Careers in BIM?
Shocker, but architects, engineers, landscape architects, interior designers, and construction professionals use BIM all the time. As I listed some BIM programs above, each profession or firm may have a specific software they prefer using.
If you happen to be tech-savvy and highly-organized, a career in BIM is an option for those thinking about what to do next! Options for this path include, but are not limited to BIM coordinator, BIM manager, or BIM director. It’s essential to keep in mind that the title of the position can vary from firm to firm, but responsibilities could be similar. The reason for these roles is that a project’s lifecycle will have many changing components, so having one or more people in charge of the BIM file keeps it accurate and updated at all times.
Who knows, maybe you can help create the next best BIM software for AEC industry!
Benefits and Optimization through BIM
What exactly are the benefits of BIM though? Like any business, it’s important to save time and be cost-effective which is why BIM is necessary for the AEC industry. Overall, it allows for better-informed design decisions, reduces construction risks and errors, and improve multi-disciplinary collaboration.
- Better Collaboration between multiple disciplines
- Preconstruction Project Visualization
- Cost Estimation
- Cost Effective and Increased Productivity
- Material specification
- Reduced Cost and Risk Mitigation
- Generates Construction Documentation Quicker
- Improved Scheduling
- Increased Opportunities for Prefabrication and Modular Construction
- Better Facility Management
BIM Mandates
BIM is such a powerful and valuable tool that some countries, especially the Scandinavian region, implement “BIM mandates” for federal projects. The United Kingdom adopted the directive in 2011 and became the most developed in the world by implementing a Level 2 BIM mandate in 2016. If you want to learn more about BIM mandates in the UK specifically, AutoDesk provides a crash course on the topic! Click Here!
I hope this introductory article about BIM gives you a better understanding of the term. One thing we know for sure is that BIM is here to stay. More and more clients and firms are adopting BIM into their process, and it’s highly advantageous for emerging professionals to learn for the industry. Which BIM program is your favorite? Share with us in the comments below or on our Instagram and YouTube. Let us know if you would like a more detailed article discussing BIM in the comments below!