Many friends often ask me whether they should learn BIM or not. In fact, BIM has been present in China for over 10 years. Considering its growing popularity and development in recent years, as well as the construction industry’s increasing focus on BIM applications, the answer to this question becomes quite clear. Here, I would like to share my personal perspective.
1. The Appeal of Learning BIM
The appeal of learning BIM essentially boils down to the benefits you gain from acquiring this skill. Different people view this from various angles, resulting in different outcomes. I will analyze it from the following points:
1. More Job Opportunities
To be honest, anyone working in the construction industry today usually has a basic understanding of CAD software operations, which mainly depends on experience and proficiency. However, BIM software is not as widely mastered. Some engineers may be experts in CAD but are completely unfamiliar with BIM software, sometimes never even having encountered it. This opens up a new employment channel for those who have learned how to operate BIM software.
Imagine your peers are still immersed in traditional CAD workflows, spending time on repetitive and complex tasks, searching for errors in 2D drawings, and trying to mentally visualize 3D models and sectional views. Meanwhile, you have already stepped out of this cycle and entered a new world of architecture. In this world, all the information — whether drawings or components — is presented in 3D. You can efficiently use BIM software to build 3D models piece by piece. Having this additional skill naturally gives you more job opportunities than others.
2. Greater Recognition
Even if you don’t plan to change jobs or just want to stick to a routine, learning BIM-related knowledge and mastering the tools can help you stand out at work. By applying what you’ve learned, you can surpass your peers and earn praise from colleagues. Over time, your supervisors will recognize your proactive attitude and may entrust you with more responsibilities or tasks, giving you the chance to showcase your abilities on a larger stage.
3. Higher Salary
The author has previously detailed the salary and benefits associated with various BIM-related positions, so I won’t go into depth here. Suffice it to say, BIM skills tend to correlate with higher pay.
2. The Risks of Not Learning BIM
I don’t want to sound alarmist, but based on my own observations, I’d like to share a few concerns:
1. Missing Out on Opportunities
This includes both the chance to learn in a timely manner and better job prospects. Many believe they can learn BIM later, after it becomes widespread. But honestly, learning after the fact is often too late. Imagine being in an environment where everyone else is knowledgeable, but you are not. This creates invisible pressure and can be stifling. You will always be one step behind, while others have already begun applying and practicing BIM skills before you even start.
2. Losing Competitiveness
When everyone has similar abilities under the same conditions, factors like proficiency and qualifications become key competitive advantages. If you master one more skill than others, that advantage becomes clear. BIM technology is a major trend shaping the future of the construction industry. Ignoring it now means giving up your future competitiveness and survival ability. While it may still be somewhat easy to find a job with traditional management methods and thinking, you risk being replaced by emerging BIM professionals. This is an inevitable trend.
That’s all I have to say about whether or not to learn BIM. I hope my explanation helps everyone come to their own conclusion.
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