How should BIM operate? The basic premise of Building Information Modeling (BIM) is that various stakeholders can input and update information at different stages of a project’s lifecycle during collaborative work, allowing everyone to achieve their respective tasks. In essence, BIM is the process and technology of using digital, parameterized, object-oriented, and interoperable public standard information to represent the physical and functional characteristics of a newly constructed or renovated facility throughout its lifecycle, meeting the needs of diverse users.
Traditionally, the division of labor and collaboration among different specialties in construction engineering followed a linear communication and information transmission model, as shown in Figure 2. After BIM’s introduction, this operational mode transforms into a core communication, information-sharing, and parallel transmission model, as illustrated in Figure 3 (Dossick and Neff 2010). In Figure 4, architects, structural engineers, and MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) engineers collaborate simultaneously within a shared BIM platform. For example, architects use BIM architectural design software such as Revit Architecture or Bentley Architecture for building volume planning and design. Structural engineers employ BIM structural design tools like Revit Structure, Bentley Structure, or Tekla for designing steel and reinforced concrete structures. MEP engineers utilize BIM MEP software such as Revit MEP or Bentley MEP to design building mechanical, electrical, and HVAC systems.
Within this BIM environment (3D-BIM), disciplines review and discuss designs collaboratively to identify flaws and errors early, maximizing the benefits of integrated design. One common BIM function during the review process is clash detection between building components or equipment. This feature helps engineers quickly identify and resolve conflicts, preventing unnecessary work such as cutting through walls or beams on site, ultimately saving significant time and costs.
Figure 2: Schematic diagram of the traditional linear operation mode in construction engineering—each discipline maintains independent data.
Figure 3: Schematic diagram of the BIM core operation mode in construction engineering—shared data among disciplines.
The process by which architects and engineers input their project responsibilities into a model using BIM software is called modeling. Modeling can be performed by designers themselves using 3D-BIM tools to input design data, or designers can provide 2D drawings which others then convert into 3D-BIM models. In Taiwan, BIM adoption is still in its early stages, and many professionals are not yet familiar with BIM’s software and environment. As a result, architects often design initially in traditional 2D formats and then hand over the work to construction companies for modeling after project handover. Construction contractors may hire BIM consulting firms or establish internal BIM teams to carry out modeling.
Figure 4: Schematic diagram of the operational workflow of Building Information Modeling (BIM).
In Figure 4, the left side illustrates the modeling tasks, while the right side shows value-added tasks that extend beyond modeling. With a 3D-BIM base model, the BIM platform not only facilitates collaborative design among original designers but also enables construction companies to conduct pre-construction house displays and sales activities. After modeling, contractors can schedule construction activities based on site conditions and resources, integrating this with building component location data in the 3D model to create a 4D model.
Construction teams use 4D models to simulate construction processes, allowing for planning and reviewing construction feasibility as well as detailed assessments of safety and operational logistics. By incorporating cost data into the model, a 5D BIM can be created, helping managers understand when, where, and how much the construction will cost. Further, by integrating equipment management data for post-construction operations, a 6D BIM environment emerges, enhancing facility management capabilities.
How BIM works beyond design and construction. BIM technology extends beyond design and construction phases. It can be employed during early feasibility studies and planning stages for tasks such as quantity estimation, rough cost estimation, building shape and color selection, materials and equipment comparisons, and intelligent facility evaluations. The integration of natural environment factors and materials with information and communication technology (ICT) to improve building performance has been a key focus in the construction industry.
Using BIM models makes it more practical to design and analyze performance indicators such as energy efficiency, acoustics, lighting, and temperature control. Moreover, BIM provides an objective and detailed method to evaluate how effectively green buildings achieve sustainability goals, including environmental protection, energy conservation, and carbon footprint reduction.
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