The Benefits of Using BIM Software in Building Design and Construction By Jared Heber

The What and Why of BIM In recent years on of the major developments in building design and construction has been the development and spread of Building Information Modeling, or BIM, software. BIM software is a particular variety of CAD (Computer Aided Design) software that has been developed with architecture specifically in mind. Whereas traditional CAD software is used to design generic objects in two dimensions, BIM software creates three dimensional models that can have properties assigned to the specific objects in the model. Because of the differences between BIM software and more traditional CAD programs create several significant benefits for the designers, contractors and owners of buildings that are designed using BIM software. The major benefits of using BIM software in building design and construction are that the buildings are cheaper to build, faster to design and build, safer while under construction, and are cheaper to maintain after they are built.

BIM Designed Buildings are Built Faster BIM programs allow for easier transition from between stages of design development (Concept Work, Design Drawings, Working Drawings, & Construction Documents). Computer generated, three dimensional model means less need to build the very time-consuming real world models. BIM programs provide better visualization of work-flow for contractors to maximize their workers' efficiency. Sacks, R., M. Treckmann, and O. Rozenfeld. "Visualization of Work Flow to Support Lean Construction." Journal Of Construction Engineering & Management (2009): Academic Search Premier. 9 September 2014 Zeiger, Mimi. “BIM Streamlines, and Blurs Lines.” ARCHITECT. November Web. 9 September 2014

BIM Design Buildings are Built Cheaper Cost cutting begins even at the architect's office. The more efficient work flow in the office means fewer people have to work on a single project. After the design is complete, contractors are given more exact information which allows them to make more accurate bids on the project. Lastly, the information contained in the model tells the contractor and subcontractors the exact quantity and nature of the building supplies need to complete project which cuts down on waste. Sacks, R., M. Treckmann, and O. Rozenfeld. "Visualization of Work Flow to Support Lean Construction." Journal Of Construction Engineering & Management (2009): Academic Search Premier. 9 September 2014 Zeiger, Mimi. “BIM Streamlines, and Blurs Lines.” ARCHITECT. November Web. 9 September 2014

BIM Designed Buildings Are Built Safer Having a 3D model helps the contractor better understand which areas of the building are unsafe to work in during different parts of construction. The model can also allow the contractor to better plan ahead in order to provide his workers safer working conditions. Before construction even begins the contractor can identify potential hazards and work around them. Sacks, R., M. Treckmann, and O. Rozenfeld. "Visualization of Work Flow to Support Lean Construction." Journal Of Construction Engineering & Management (2009): Academic Search Premier. 9 September 2014

BIM Designed Buildings Are Cheaper To Maintain Model provides detailed information on all of the locations and parts found in the electrical, plumbing, and climate systems. This allows problems to more easily be determined, resolved, and replacement parts ordered. The model can also be created to contain maintenance schedules and various parts expected lifespan.