Building Information Modeling (BIM) is the innovative growth driver for digitalization and modernization in construction. The advanced technology supports building technology planners in the management and visualization of complex projects.
BIM software enables planning projects to manage data more efficiently and automate workflows to achieve higher productivity and more control over building services planning. With BIM, planners can optimize building lifecycles and reduce the cost of building construction and maintenance.
The most important facts in brief
Modern BIM solutions facilitate the planning, construction and maintenance of even complex construction projects
Shared data environments facilitate the interoperability of different trades
BIM programs with a wide range of application options increase the effectiveness of processes and reduce costs sustainably
What exactly is BIM software and what must it be able to do?
BIM as such is initially not software, but a control and planning concept that handles the entire life cycle of a building with digitized and virtual detailed information.
A BIM system based on this method enables optimized planning, construction and management of buildings. For this purpose, a digital twin of the real building is created, which combines all construction plans and data in a precise 3D model.
All parties involved, from architects, planners and engineers to construction companies and facility managers, work with this model. This results in smooth collaboration throughout the entire life cycle of the building.
One method engine, many gears - functions of BIM software
Interoperability between individual sub-areas is essential for the benefits of BIM software. Currently, a BIM program alone does not usually cover the entire project process, but only takes over certain aspects of the project.
Architects, for example, create a 3D building model, engineers use it for structural planning and facility managers plan building management and corresponding maintenance cycles.
It is therefore crucial that a BIM system bundles these individual areas on one platform and makes them usable for everyone involved without any loss of efficiency. The software thus combines the individual processes into a BIM process that puts all building components in relation to one another - into a functioning engine that drives the construction process.
One standard, many application options
Loss-free data exchange between BIM programs and systems requires a standard that keeps the planning engine running smoothly.
All leading manufacturers use IFC (Industry Foundation Class) for this purpose. This is an open and ISO-certified standard that, like the PDF standard, can be used by any software manufacturer. buildingSMART, an international non-profit organization, is committed to digital transformation in the construction industry and awards certifications for BIM programs as a quality feature when making a selection.
Where are BIM software solutions used?
BIM tools are now an essential resource in many areas of planning, design and construction. With these solutions, planners and designers can design, plan and construct buildings and other structures more efficiently. Thanks to advanced 3D CAD technology, BIM can improve cost efficiency, productivity and quality throughout the development process.
Yet BIM software has long since been introduced and is the working standard in many companies. According to the current BIM Monitor 2022/23, one in five companies within the building and construction industry already work with BIM software. The share of BIM projects in the respective business turnover is already around 31% on average. A dedicated BIM strategy is therefore becoming increasingly relevant for many companies.
Industry-independent applicability of BIM software
BIM can be used in various sectors, from residential construction to industrial buildings. There are also specific use cases for the application of BIM in building services engineering. In this area, companies can use the technology to optimize the planning, design and operation of buildings. For example, specific elements such as heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems can be planned more effectively.
Parametric BIM models are 3D models with integrated data, and are transforming HVAC design in construction. They allow simple changes to be made to a design without compromising accuracy. For example, these models make it easy to change the size of a duct or add an additional device.
By creating digital models that automatically adapt to changes in design parameters, designers can quickly identify and fix problems before they become costly mistakes.
By providing a platform for collaboration, these BIM models improve accuracy and cost efficiency and facilitate the efficient exchange of information between stakeholders. The integration of BIM data into these models improves the coordination of HVAC components and leads to more informed decisions.
The BIM workflow
For the BIM engine to run smoothly, it needs more than just a cogwheel. That's why the workflow also offers a wide range of individual tools that cover the entire progress of the project in the five main project phases: design phase, planning, construction and maintenance.
The individual tools include, among others
BIM software for dimensioning and calculation
BIM programs for maintenance planning
BIM CAD software for visualization
BIM drawing programs
Project management software with corresponding BIM interfaces
Thanks to BIM, engineers have more opportunities to make design decisions and implement proposed changes more quickly. They can also check that the design of their project is in accordance with the standards. In addition, the use of BIM results in potential cost savings during the project development process and better coordination in the implementation of the design.
What functions must modern BIM software have?
Not every engine is suitable for certain types of vehicles with very specific requirements. Before companies implement BIM methods and software, they must consider which functions modern BIM software must explicitly offer for individual project requirements. In order to generate real added project value, the following factors, among others, are crucial:
3D CAD modeling: With advanced 3D CAD modeling capabilities, users can create complex models with accurate precision. This allows users to realize ideas accurately and customize the project according to the company's requirements.
Standardization: With the implementation of the BIM Standard Germany, users can plan and manage processes according to uniform specifications - and ensure consistent quality.
Building services integration: Technical systems are required for buildings to function properly throughout their entire life cycle. The integration of building technology into the BIM CAD software helps to incorporate these systems into the design and thus achieve an efficient and functional design in the long term.
Interoperability: The data used and output must be read out and available between individual BIM tools without loss.
To find out more about these and other functions that CAD software should have, read this guide.
Conclusion
Modern BIM solutions are a real efficiency driver for the optimization of construction processes - from planning to final implementation. Many small gears interlock to make a highly complex and coordinated system effectively usable for the end user in practice.
Thanks to BIM design software, planning projects can be designed more effectively by managing data efficiently and automating workflows. This results in higher productivity and better control over building services planning. With BIM, planners can optimize the entire building life cycle while reducing the cost of creating and maintaining buildings and infrastructure.
The BIM engine is revolutionizing the planning and execution of even complex designs in the long term - and is constantly being adapted and further developed to meet new requirements via the corresponding interfaces. Trimble Connect and Trimble Nova create the right data environment for this - with proven interoperability and suitable special applications.
