What is BIM, and What Can It Do for Construction?

Construction has been historically slow to adopt technology, but that has been changing in recent years. Tech is finally helping firms and professionals everywhere to cut costs, increase safety, and overall boost efficiency.

BIM, or Building Information Modeling, has been around for a while, but has only taken off in popularity in the last couple years. What can it do, and why is this such an essential tool for construction professionals everywhere?

The Basics of BIM

Building Information Modeling uses data inputs to create a digital 3D model of a construction site. BIM can map every detail of a building at any stage of the build, exposing opportunities and threats as well as bringing the plan to life before you even break ground.

It is much more than a manifestation of blueprints, plans, and datapoints; BIM can show you the geographical area, quantities of materials used, light analysis, and more. It can even allow decision-makers to explore alternate plans and strategies, showing cause and effect in a safe, digital space.

BIM also allows for increased communication and collaboration among the professionals working on the project. It supports document management and allows everyone to see the entire lifecycle of the build.

How BIM Can Boost Profit Margins

According to one report, 75% of firms who have stared using BIM have seen positive ROI.

One major benefit of BIM is the fact that stakeholders can see the finalized building well in advance, which allows them to make changes and suggestions before the project is underway. This can avoid major rerouting or backtracking far into construction, which can affect timelines and profit margins.

BIM can also allow for testing in a detailed, accurate environment. If a firm wants to test different materials, or use prefabrication and modular construction, decision-makers will have a good idea of the effects it will have on the structure, as well as the bottom line.

Increased Safety

BIM can even be used to assess risk to construction professionals. With a fully rendered model, they can identify any safety hazards well before any people arrive on a physical build site.

By planning and working out the logistics beforehand, potential accidents or pitfalls can be identified and avoided. Safety evaluations can be conducted on the model, as well. Therefore, firms can avoid the personal and financial issues that can arise from safety missteps.

If you’d like to learn about more tools and strategies to help your construction business, please peruse our Michael Page advice section. If you’re looking for informed, talented professionals to join your team, you can reach out to our expert recruiters or submit a job description here.