Building Information Modeling (BIM) is an intelligent 3D model-based process that gives architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) professionals the insight and tools to more efficiently plan, design, construct, and manage buildings and infrastructure.
According to Ruchika Gajjar C.E.O of HI-CAD Africa Limited, BIM adoption is growing in the industry. However, the main barriers to adoption at the moment include:
- Finding qualified users
- Finding the time to adopt new processes and tools
- Understanding what is actually to be delivered and in what form.
“The greatest challenge facing the global construction industry is the lack of quality, coordinated and timely information. Constructible BIM solutions, like Tekla Structures, greatly improve the construction business by providing the most complete, constructible and collaborative information management solution,” she adds.
Below are four key tips that should be considered to maximize a BIM investment:
1. Research the proper software package
Different projects have different priorities and different Building Information Modeling programs cater to different users in the industry.
So as a firm it is good to ensure that you know well about the software package that you need for particular project.
2. Get Proper Training
Since all this packages keep on changing therefore there is need to ensure architects keep on getting proper training and refresher courses to ensure that they get to know how to use each of them. This really goes without saying but since many architecture pros are the self-teaching type this needs to be addressed.
3. Standardize
Just like other software it is good to ensure you have a good sound system that will easily help you access and store the BIM Models. Since they are more complicated than traditional 2D CAD models it is imperative that you seek out sound advice from experts on the proper way to store data.
4. Automate
The more you use the software look for ways to automate the process wherever applicable. Doing this will save time and money on the project and will also reduce mistakes. Nearly all the programs have ways of creating macros or if you’re feeling lucky creating scripts to do many of the repetitive tasks.
