BIM Software

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a digital working method that uses virtual digital 3D models as the basis for planning, designing, constructing, managing and operating projects. The 3D models contain more than just graphical information, allowing properties to be attached to each building component (such as material type, performance data, and cost, for example.) In effect, the models become a central repository of all relevant project information that can be shared amongst the entire project team. BIM can be used for any type of project, not just buildings – bridges, roads, and other infrastructure projects can all benefit from using BIM.

While BIM refers to the process of designing, constructing, managing and operating a construction project using a model-based method, it is so interlinked with 3D modeling software that it’s a common misconception that BIM is software. We call it a digital working method because by using a central coordination model, BIM connects people using a transparent process and allows reliable, efficient management of the project through improved collaboration.

That said, the 3D modeling software used for BIM will need additional features not typically found in CAD software, such as openBIM exchange interfaces. This allows team members to share information via the BIM model using the software of their choice.

With BIM, each discipline within the project creates their own 3D model of their section of the project and retains control and responsibility over that model. Each of these submodels are combined into a central coordination model, which contains all the information within each submodel. This information gives the objects a meaning – a cuboid shape is then a wall, for example – and describes the objects using properties like energy performance, material, or weight. In addition, the objects can be linked to information outside of the model, such as a product specification or a detail drawing. Transparency and communication are improved by using the central coordination model as a basis for assigning tasks to teams, collaborating, and managing the design, construction, and building operation process.

Typically, constructing projects has been a fragmented process, with drawings, documents, schedules, reports, and specifications all located with different parties and in different formats. Sharing information between the various disciplines and companies involved is difficult and often leads to data being lost or recreated. BIM helps overcome this by ensuring that everyone who is working on the project can access the most up-to-date and relevant information for better-informed decisions.

With this open and collaborative approach, collisions, errors, and inconsistencies can be identified early on and rectified in the design phase. As a result, significant time and costs are saved during the construction phase. Simulations can also be carried out at an earlier stage using the central model – for example, to determine energy consumption or maintenance costs so the operation of the building can be optimized. Communication between the project teams is simplified and more efficient, because everyone has access to the most up-to-date information. The overall result with BIM is a higher-quality project and a higher-quality building.

A BIM level refers to the maturity of BIM implementation within a project. Level 0 uses purely 2D-oriented CAD and all the project information is contained in separated documents – the traditional way of designing and constructing projects.

BIM Level 1 starts to incorporate 3D models into the 2D process, generating advantages such as collision checks between components. However, collaboration is still undertaken by exchanging 2D files using a document management system.

BIM level 2 refers to a model-based working method using models enhanced with the information needed for the agreed BIM applications and with a shared coordination model. BIM level 2 is also characterized by openBIM: using manufacturer-neutral data exchange interfaces like IFC or COBie to allow all project participants to use the software of their choice to access, share and read data (as opposed to closedBIM which restricts BIM tools to one manufacturer.)

BIM level 3 takes this a step further, using a database-oriented common data environment (CDE). The CDE allows even large or highly detailed BIM models to be managed in the cloud, making the model more accessible, valuable and useful for anyone involved in the design, construction, and operation process of the structure over its entire lifecycle.