BIM: Building Information Modeling

BIM

Not a tool – an operational methodology

BIM is not software, but an approach, a methodology that allows you to create a realistic shared information model. As a result, all information related to the development, growth and analysis process of multidimensional virtual models, which are digitally generated using special software, is collected. Across the construction industry, BIM can be defined as a process of collaboration between different stakeholders at different stages of a building's life cycle. This to add, export, update or edit the information of a BIM model.

The technique can be used as a process for:

• Coding
• Concept
• Operation
• Maintenance

of a building that uses a data-rich, object-oriented and parametric representation of the building. In other words, it is a model that contains all the information about the building throughout its life cycle. As a result, it takes into account planning, construction, operation, demolition and dismantling/waste treatment.

BIM or CAD?

BIM and CAD are two different approaches. Because BIM is not simply the further development of CAD, but a completely new perspective on the planning and construction of a building.

The advantages of BIM over the traditional way of working are numerous, we will briefly list some of them:

• Time and cost savings: the planner no longer needs to draw an incredible amount of lines, polylines and geometric shapes (which takes a lot of time), but simply has special smart objects with their own properties and information (material, cost, heat capacity, maintenance etc.).
• Error reduction: Floor plans, elevations and cross sections are simply different views of the same object. Any change to the BIM model affects all correlated views and representations.
• More simplicity: Complex models can therefore be created easily. Anyone involved in architectural planning can now expand their creative abilities by suggesting ideas and solutions that could never be achieved using a traditional CAD application.
• The specific functions of each discipline are managed by different software. Each professional involved in a BIM project will carry out that part of the project using the BIM software that they consider best suited to their task.

to keep an overview

For property owners, the BIM method is the most efficient way to obtain all the crucial knowledge about the property or the property portfolio. Ultimately, all data is available at any time and allows decisions on operation, leasing, management, conversion, investment planning, planning of reinvestments or divestments to be made on a well-founded basis and through constant input of the values ​​​​documented from operations or facility management.

The effects of a future change in the use of the property can be calculated quickly and precisely and the right decisions can be made from this. In addition, a benefit is guaranteed for already foreseeable official requirements regarding later dismantling and reuse of building materials.