Building Information Modelling (BIM)

What is BIM and what does it mean?

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is an intelligent 3D model-based process that gives architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) professionals the insight and tools to more efficiently plan, design, construct, and manage buildings and infrastructure. BIM is not a single tool but a way of working to aid collaboration and the sharing of information among everyone involved in the construction of a built asset.

BIM acts as a living document for the building. Each stakeholder in the development of a building uses BIM differently:

Architect: Visualise designs and make necessary changes
Developers: Understand costs and timing
Construction Managers: Estimate material and labour costs
Building Managers: Understand the structure of the building for maintenance, renovations and improvements

Both, the property and real estate industry can benefit from BIM at every stage:

Complete transparency into every aspect of the project
Updated costs and timelines as changes happen to the project at any point in time
Better quality end product aligned to client needs
Superior planning limiting delays
Reduces the need for costly rework and revision
Better project cost modelling/estimation
Greater safety in construction projects
More informed decisions from the data/information contained in the BIM model
Maximise its operation and long-term performance through better decision-making

Adoption & incompatibility with partners: BIM is not yet universally used among construction professionals.
Cost of software & training: BIM software requires a substantial investment in new technology.
Data protection: BIM models contain rich data/information about the operation and performance of a building, which in the case of public buildings can include highly sensitive data.

The development of smart cities is complex as multiple teams are involved, such as construction, supervision, architectural, plumbing, and operations. Thanks to BIM, there is a standardised flow of information between all parties, enabling a more precise, cost-effective, and detailed project.

BIM provides smarter options and alternatives that are sometimes even improved over the man-made plans. This technology is essential to the modern development of smart cities as it allows room for study, research, and improvement before the project has even begun on the ground.

BIM’s aim is to build smart cities that are well integrated in terms of transportation, communication, development, infrastructure, technology, and services from both, a micro and macro city level.