The construction industry is changing at a rapid pace, thanks to the evolution of Building Information Modelling (BIM). This technology makes it possible for designers, engineers, and contractors to work together in real-time to develop high-quality buildings that are delivered on time and within budget. In this article we will explore how the conversation around smart construction is continuing to revolutionise the industry.
What is smart construction?
Smart construction is a way of thinking about the whole end-to-end process of building, including design, construction, and operation. It uses software such as Building Information Modelling (BIM), construction management software, 3D printing, virtual reality, etc. to reduce costs and wastages, optimise collaboration, and improve outcomes. BIM, for example, helps you plan your project right down to the smallest detail so that you can make changes as needed even as your design evolves throughout the process.
When you use smart construction methods, you’ll be able to see how every element on your site will fit together—from electrical wiring to plumbing lines—before any work begins on site. That way there won’t be any surprises when it’s time for installation because everything has been carefully considered from start to finish.
What is Building Information Modelling (BIM)?
BIM is a 3D digital model of your building. It is the combination of graphic, spatial, and engineering information that describes all aspects of the construction project. It allows you to visualise your design in 3D before it’s built. You can share the model with contractors, subcontractors, clients, architects, etc. during the planning phases, review the model online at any time during construction, and make better decisions along the way.
BIM technology helps make building construction processes smoother by making sure there are fewer mistakes from miscommunication between parties involved in the project – especially when there are thousands of documents being handed back and forth!
Here’s how BIM works:
- As you build, you collect information about every element in your design—from structural components like beams or columns to appliances and fixtures —and how they fit together.
- You then add that data into software that can create an accurate 3D model, called a “digital twin.” This means you can see how everything will look before it’s built—whether it’s sitting on top of another object or if there’s enough space around it for people to walk through safely without bumping into anything else nearby.
How is the BIM model beneficial?
BIM software is used in all stages of a project, from conception through design and construction. When combined with other systems such as 3D printing, it can help to make the built environment more sustainable by reducing waste and increasing the speed at which projects can be completed.
A well-implemented BIM software set-up can help:
- reduce the time and cost of projects.
- improve safety, quality, and sustainability.
- reduce project risk by providing a clear picture of what is going on throughout the project life cycle.
- make it easier for everyone involved in the construction process to collaborate effectively and make informed decisions.
- consider the impact of decisions at every stage of the project.
BIM software platforms like PlanRadar allow you to collect all building related information on a 3D model and integrate it with your building project management software, enabling you to identify inefficiencies, and spot opportunities for growth. To learn more about how PlanRadar helps you to transform your operations using BIM technology, you can try the app for free or book a demo.
What does the BIM model mean for the construction industry?
Building information modelling (BIM) can be used to create a virtual representation of the building and all its components, including electrical cabling, plumbing pipes, and structural elements like beams and columns. These models are used to design buildings in 3D before they’re built—and they’re not just useful for architects: BIM helps everyone involved in the construction process better understand what their role will be once work begins on site. That includes builders, designers, engineers, and subcontractors alike.
BIM can be used to manage the entire building construction process. This helps with coordination across all stakeholders involved in the project—from designers and contractors through to owners, tenants and occupants—to ensure everyone is working from an up-to-date version of the plans. This helps you improve the quality of your work and avoid costly mistakes.
BIM improves collaboration across building construction stakeholders tremendously. It’s an open, integrated digital model that allows everyone involved in a project to see the same information at the same time. This means there are no more ‘silos’ of data—with different people working from different versions of the plans—and it makes it easier for people to work together.
BIM also makes it easier to manage change requests, which can lead to faster completion of projects and lower costs.
BIM technology adoption in the Australian construction industry
Building information modelling (BIM) has been used in Australia for more than a decade. In the early 2000s, BIM was considered an emerging technology. Today it’s a critical component of construction projects and is increasingly becoming a standard part of project delivery processes.
According to the Royal Australian Institute of Architects (RAIA), about 60% of large-scale building projects use BIM. In addition to this, more than 80% of Australia’s major engineering firms have adopted BIM technologies. The Australian Government’s BIM Strategy for Australia has also been launched. This strategy aims to develop and implement a national approach to the adoption of BIM technology in Australia, focusing on the following areas:
- Improving industry awareness of BIM and its benefits.
- Supporting education and training programs across Australia.
- Developing policies and legislation that encourage adoption.
How to start using BIM modelling software?
BIM software is a great way to build and plan your project. When it comes to BIM modelling, there are some nuances that you should consider:
- Choosing the right software for your construction projects. . It’s important to choose the right type of software for your team and make sure it has all the features that you need to create an accurate model.
- Getting trained on how to use BIM modelling platforms so that you can take full advantage of what they have to offer.
- If you’re planning on using commercial software in your business then it’s always a good idea to set up an agreement with the software provider. This will ensure avoiding any potential IP/copyright issues.
Conclusion
When it comes to BIM, it is not just about having the right technology. It’s about changing the way you work to get better results. With BIM, you can use data as an asset rather than something that needs to be stored away. You’ll be able to share this information with others involved in the project – including suppliers, consultants, and other stakeholders – so everyone knows what’s happening at any given time.
We have seen how BIM is changing the way we build and how it is being used by the construction industry in Australia. We hope this article has given you an idea of what BIM modelling is and why it is beneficial for all involved in the process. If you are looking to get quickly started with BIM software for your construction projects, you can start your 30-day free PlanRadar trial here.
