Engineering projects are unique, one-off products where each project differs slightly. During construction, various unforeseen challenges often arise. Therefore, having a reliable budget is crucial. In the early stages of construction, a significant portion of funds is allocated, while the cost to implement changes remains relatively low. As the project advances, the investment gradually decreases, but making changes becomes significantly more expensive. The later the stage of construction, the higher the cost of correcting errors or modifications, as illustrated in Figure 1.
Minimizing changes and uncertainties to complete the project according to the initial plan is key to effective cost management. Hence, preparing a thorough budget before construction begins plays a vital role in controlling project expenses.
Figure 1: Changes in Cost and Investment with Construction Stage
Implementing BIM technology enables detailed design and virtual construction, allowing early detection and correction of errors and vulnerabilities through model inspection and analysis. By simulating key milestones and critical processes, BIM helps determine the optimal solutions. This significantly reduces uncertainty during construction, cutting down on wasted labor and materials, lowering costs, and shortening the overall construction timeline.
Figure 2: Quantity Statistics
The BIM model contains comprehensive building information and ensures fast, efficient data transfer. Through BIM, accurate engineering quantity data can be directly obtained, with classification and statistical analysis based on attributes such as types and codes. For example, as shown in Figure 2, quantities of masonry and concrete over a specific period can be extracted directly from a 4D model.
The quantities generated through BIM are not simply calculated by summing lengths, areas, or volumes. Instead, they result from precise solid modeling deductions and 3D Boolean operations, yielding highly accurate quantity data. By analyzing the model, performing clash detection, and accurately calculating quantities, the cost budgeting process becomes more precise and efficient.
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