After about a month of BIM training, the author’s course has come to an end. This final issue, titled Reflections on BIM Training, serves as a summary of their understanding of BIM concepts gained through the training. I would like to take this opportunity to share the results of this learning experience.
The concept of BIM (Building Information Modeling) is defined as a workflow that leverages three-dimensional digital modeling techniques and object-oriented parameters to generate, communicate, and analyze building models. BIM is not software or physical objects; rather, it is a human-centered activity that brings significant changes to traditional building processes. The association also defines BIM as a computer modeling technology that connects engineering plan information databases. In other words, it uses 3D building models to link various engineering project components with extensive information databases, commonly referred to as digitization and parameterization.
BIM’s key features are digitization and parameterization. These aspects allow everyone involved in a project to clearly understand the entire scope of the building project. Because BIM models contain abundant data describing the building and are visualized as 3D models, even owners or individuals without professional training can directly grasp the designer’s intentions. Designers use BIM-related software to replace traditional hand drawings or 2D computer drawings, enabling them to perform 3D design tasks directly. The main difference between BIM and general architectural 3D software is that BIM models are backed by extensive data and clear parameter support. When designers finish a 3D design, they effectively describe their results through these numerous parameters.
Unlike traditional computer-aided drawing technology, BIM’s digital and parameterized nature allows project engineers to easily extract quantities or attributes of individual components from the model. It also supports defining various tasks with different sets of attributes. These include the appearance, spatial relationships, geographic information, quantities, vendor details, engineering drawings, procurement data, environmental conditions, submission procedures, and quality specifications of building components. In summary, BIM offers multiple definitions and attributes for 3D models, which helps project teams query, modify, extract, and utilize the information efficiently.
Beyond designers, BIM models can be shared with subsequent project teams. Instead of relying heavily on numerous 2D drawings or files, these teams use the visual 3D model to fully understand the building, including design outcomes, detailed quantity tables, costs, workflows, and schedules. This approach avoids the need to translate 2D drawings into 3D structures mentally, ensuring all teams share a consistent understanding of the project. It also fosters better collaboration and communication. The engineering team can use the BIM model’s pre-transfer information to anticipate potential on-site challenges, adjust plans or construction methods in advance, reduce risks, and minimize cost increases caused by engineering changes.
Each team involved in a construction project can communicate through the same BIM model, focusing on their specific areas of expertise and responsibility. Once each team completes their work, the models are integrated to simulate the entire construction process. Any conflicts or issues can be identified within the BIM model itself. This eliminates the traditional difficulties of overlapping tasks and the need to consult numerous drawings and documents. With 3D BIM models, engineers gain a clear and comprehensive understanding of all project-related information.
That wraps up this final session on understanding BIM concepts. I began and end with BIM concepts, sharing my experiences and learnings from six training sessions in hopes of helping others. In the future, I look forward to discussing BIM further based on challenges I encounter in my practical work. Goodbye!
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