BIM on the construction site

About the author

• Pavel Goretskiy is a BIM manager at SIGNAX and is responsible for the onsite implementation of BIM and digital services in the MENA region
• Pavel graduated from the State Power Engineering Institute, where specialized in Power Engineering, earning a Master's Degree
• Pavel has more than 5 years of construction experience and BIM implementations in Residential housing and Industrial Facilities
• Now he also acts as a team coordinator and has several publications in specialized journals

More about Pavel at LinkedIn

Introduction

Today, the whole construction industry is undergoing a transformation through the development and implementation of Building Information Modeling (BIM). Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a digital technology utilized in construction that entails the creation of a virtual model of a building or infrastructure project before its physical construction, which is then employed throughout the entire process, encompassing the construction and operation phases. This virtual model contains plenty of information about the project: materials, cost, vendor information, and linked scopes of work for advanced project control. The implementation of BIM by architects, engineers, contractors, builders, and clients aims to enhance the construction process, minimize expenses, and boost productivity.

The crucial role of BIM in the construction industry development

The construction industry has traditionally been slow to adopt new technologies and processes. As construction projects become more intricate and efficiency becomes paramount, BIM has become crucial for architects, engineers, contractors, builders, and clients. By enabling the creation of 3D models, facilitating efficient management, and promoting effective collaboration, BIM is indispensable for construction professionals.

Before the advent of BIM, construction professionals relied on 2D drawings and manual calculations to design and construct buildings. This often led to errors, rework, and delays in construction projects. The utilization of BIM has transformed the construction process as it offers a digital medium for construction experts to envision their projects in three dimensions and detect any potential problems or discrepancies before the commencement of construction.

Government regulations and mandates are also driving the adoption of BIM. Many countries have implemented regulations that require the use of BIM on public projects. This has led to increased adoption of BIM in the whole construction industry, particularly on construction sites.

10 BIM-uses for construction

Various technologies and approaches can be utilized to implement BIM. Still, the prevalent method involves utilizing BIM software like Autodesk Revit for designing and Autodesk Construction Cloud and SIGNAX services for construction. This software allows construction experts to employ 3D models of their projects and collaborate with their team members in real-time while on-site.

Let's review 10 on-site BIM technologies and approaches, also known as BIM uses:

• BIM models enhance collaboration and communication among onsite teams by utilizing cloud-based tools such as SIGNAX DOCS or Autodesk Construction Cloud common data environments. With the help of mobile apps like SIGNAX DASHBOARD, team members can easily access project information on their handheld devices.

• With BIM tools like Revit, Docs, and SIGNAX TOOLS, model-based cost estimation automates the process of quantifying and applying costs. This enables estimators to concentrate on more valuable factors.

• By utilizing BIM tools, preconstruction planning and visualization can be achieved, thereby reducing the need for costly and time-consuming modifications in the future.

• BIM enables better coordination and clash detection with Navisworks and SIGNAX TOOLS, reducing reworks needed on any given job.

• BIM tools offer multiple cost-saving benefits, including decreased tender risk premiums, insurance expenses, variations, and claims. Additionally, they minimize labor costs associated with documentation tasks and misunderstandings. With real-time collaboration and a centralized document repository, the likelihood of utilizing obsolete information is reduced.

• BIM saves time by allowing design and documentation to happen simultaneously, improving accuracy in scheduling and reducing setbacks.

• The utilization of BIM results in enhanced productivity and reduced waste through the implementation of prefabrication techniques.

• BIM enhances construction safety by identifying potential hazards and planning logistics in advance.

• BIM leads to better building quality by coordinating teams and allowing for early identification of structural deficiencies and aesthetic choices.

• BIM improves building management and facilitates the transfer of ownership by creating a continuous digital record of building data that can be used for post-occupancy purposes, including the potential creation of a digital replica of the building.

How to implement BIM on-site - our cheatsheet

To implement BIM on a construction site, construction professionals should follow these steps:

• Define what exact BIM uses you want to implement;

• Choose a construction BIM software that meets the needs of the project, the pilot project, and the consulting company for support (if needed);

• Create a construction BIM model out of the design one;

• Proof of Concept and Piloting;

• Train personnel;

• Continuous improvement - day-to-day BIM will cover more and more processes;

• Continuously updating the BIM model during the construction process is crucial to ensuring that all parties are using the latest information.

You can find more details on our website or just DM us.

Conclusion

BIM is revolutionizing the approach to constructing projects. It empowers construction experts to produce 3D models, streamline project management, and enhance collaboration while minimizing risks. With the aid of BIM, construction professionals can decrease inaccuracies, economize time and finances, and guarantee that their projects are finalized on schedule and within the designated budget.

As technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more innovative uses of BIM in the construction industry. BIM is here to stay, and those who embrace it will be better positioned to compete in an increasingly competitive market.