The multidimensional value of BIM technology is primarily reflected in information visualization, information sharing, and integration. Information visualization involves using visual representations to enhance human understanding. It presents scientific data—such as images, numerical values, and other measurement-based information—in intuitive graphical formats that depict physical phenomena or quantities changing over space and time. Grounded in human cognitive theory, effective information visualization helps users better comprehend, interpret, and recognize information.
Unlike traditional CAD platforms that rely on simple lines to represent building forms, BIM technology offers a more advanced approach. It enables the creation of three-dimensional electronic models, providing a clearer and more accurate presentation of buildings. This overcomes the limitations of imagining 3D models from 2D CAD drawings. Users can explore the project’s basic information visually, viewing the building model from any angle. Additionally, BIM can automatically generate various sectional views and floor plans based on any chosen cut.
The information sharing capabilities of BIM are particularly important for the construction industry. Engineering projects often require substantial funding and long construction timelines, involving numerous stakeholders. Due to differing tasks, interests, and goals, effective information transmission and sharing among parties can be challenging.
Using the Johari Window Theory to illustrate, consider information exchange between owners and designers. Information is divided into four zones: public information (known to both parties), unknown information (unknown to both), blind spots (known to designers but not owners), and private information (known to owners but not designers). A smaller public information zone means more unknowns for one party. Expanding this public zone—through designer feedback and owner disclosure—increases information sharing.
Traditionally, engineering projects have limited public information, resulting in large blind spot and private information areas. However, BIM-based project management can significantly overcome these barriers, facilitating comprehensive information sharing among all stakeholders. This improves project transparency, fostering healthier and more orderly industry development.
Information integration represents another critical aspect of BIM’s value. While information sharing focuses on human cognitive use of BIM models throughout a project’s lifecycle, information integration emphasizes software-level interaction. It involves the interoperability between BIM models and various system software applied at different project stages.
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