BIM is changing the way we build, and it is evolving our best practices for information transference. This makes BIM a very valuable asset for project managers, and it provides an opportunity to build a robust toolkit. To leverage these opportunities project managers must understand project & market complexities.
BIM is always misunderstood as an actual software or application, but in reality, it is a process that uses various software & technology that makes BIM adoption beneficial. Looking beyond technology, and applying the actual process is the nature of BIM that helps augment communication & collaboration across various project teams, and helps improve construction project planning using Project Planning Tools.
There are various levels that BIM operates on viz. BIM level 0, BIM level 1, BIM level 2, and BIM level 3.
- BIM level 0 –refers to CAD drawings
- BIM level 1(partial collaboration) – refers to adding BIM capabilities and objects, also called OO – CAD or Object-Oriented CAD – 2D & 3D
- BIM level 2(full collaboration) – refers to creating & sharing file formats that include COBie, IFC, and CDE – 4D & 5D
- BIM level 3(full integration) – refers to building open data standards for easy data sharing, this enhances collaborative opportunities – 6D
In this article, we will understand the opportunities of level 3 BIM that works on the principle of centralized data management and complete BIM integration. This means that all the design and structural plans are built on a single dataset, rather than files in a silo. The elements of this common dataset can be accessed by various project stakeholders, and any changes made in this dataset are propagated across all the project lifecycle, as it is a centralized data format.
BIM creates superior clarity for stakeholders
BIM works on a single repository or Common Data Environment (CDE) regarding the design and construction. This includes project information, assets, materials, designs, etc. But, BIM isn’t just about 2D drawings and 3D models. This also includes clashdetection, walkthroughs, costestimation, scheduling, and more. BIM delivers a cross-disciplinary platform or process to share information, this is achieved by a database first approach. This is exceptionally helpful for architects, engineers, designers, modelers, etc. for every stage of the project development. This keeps all the information up-to-date, simplifies administration, and mitigates clashes.
This also means that project managers can access a wealth of information to leverage upon. All this is accessed from 3D models rather than 2D schematics. With the right project planning course, individuals who are project managers can assess and understand the workflows & deliverables of each team, resource, etc.
BIM can create new opportunities
As BIM spreads information across the entire table of the project, it allows construction project managers to work in a flexible environment with direct contact with various teams and stages of the building project. The ability to communicate and collaborate with other specialists and their expertise accelerates the entire building process. Since BIM works on a Common Data Environment (CDE), it can move around project limitations or create new opportunities in real-time.
Project managers in this case can grasp a better understanding of project progress regardless of the project phase.This also makes it easier for project stakeholders to engage with design prototypes, prefabrication, manufacturing, and autonomous vehicles onsite.
BIM facilitates project managers
BIM works at full potential when project managers use Construction Project Planning at its fullest. At level 3 BIM, full integration makes it easy for stakeholders to collaborate and analyze changes as and when required. At the design and construction phase, project managers need to take full responsibility for the team and project resources to make sure every individual understands roles and responsibilities for a positive workflow. This facilitates faster turnaround times, pushes project boundaries, enhances project creativity.
Conclusion
BIM can prove to be the most powerful tool for project managers in understanding project capabilities and overseeing project performance to garner and deliver outcomes. It is the project manager’s responsibility to ensure all the teams have a complete understanding of the processes and technology that come with Building Information Modeling(BIM). BIM can create new opportunities through informed & collaborative processes.
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