White Papers

How does this work and why? The success, or otherwise, of BIM in design, relies heavily on how well BIM models are set up from the get-go. The more thought applied to the model at this stage, then the more likely it is to prove of real benefit to all stakeholders involved in the project. If the architect thinks about scheduling when the model is created – for example setting up the floors in the order they're to be poured or ductwork in the order it is to be added – then 4D BIM becomes much easier to implement. Also, setting project parameters at this stage will prove invaluable in ensuring the estimating capability supplied by 5D BIM pays real dividends. If schedules aren't considered or added properly then they simply can't be used as a basis for estimates. Furthermore, each element involved in the project needs to have quite a lot of detail applied to it. Without knowing what type or size of element they are estimating, estimators won't be able to make particularly accurate estimates. The more complex a project, the harder it is for estimating to even count the elements from a 2D plan. As well as improving accuracy and precision, this saves considerable costs in time and manpower. Far from making estimators less valuable to projects, it's likely to make them more valued for their skill and precision in working with data to achieve hard, fast and tangible results. Their roles become more focused on identifying cost savings (both OPEX and Capex). Essentially, they become cost engineers. While that explains much of why BIM is valued by architects, as well as how it can inform and simplify overall project costs, it doesn't necessarily clarify why, or how, everyone else might benefit from BIM processes. We go beyond the architect's studio and look at BIM in design for all those involved in the process from clients through to subcontractors. BIM & Design: From Architects to Subcontractors – Who does what?

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