When discussing the relationship between BIM and traditional calculation software, cost engineers likely have much to share. BIM Architecture Training Network is here to explore this topic in detail.
The connection between BIM and conventional calculation tools, as well as construction schedule management software, is crucial. Accurate quantity takeoff depends on a comprehensive list that includes materials, labor, and equipment inputs. BIM’s foundation begins with modeling software like Revit, which can generate a list of component objects. By associating each component with its corresponding material, labor, and equipment consumption, a detailed cost quantity list can be created.
While the accuracy of this list is generally reliable, completeness remains a challenge. Currently, no modeling software can capture all components perfectly due to the vast data volume and complex relationships within a building model. However, achieving coverage of around 80% of components is feasible today. With advancing software capabilities and clever techniques, this coverage can increase to over 90%, and with flexible methods, even reach 95% or higher.
For example, a door model can be created in BIM software, but components like hinges and screws typically don’t require individual modeling. Instead, their types and quantities can be added as additional attributes to the door object. These details can then be extracted in the quantity takeoff report. This approach allows the BIM-generated lists to integrate smoothly with existing calculation software, while still accepting a small margin of error—usually around 3-5%—in the final budget.
Progress management follows a similar principle. For instance, when BIM generates a floor slab, the construction process is broken down into at least three steps: installing formwork, placing reinforcement bars, and pouring concrete. Each step requires a time allocation. While BIM can provide a broad overview of these phases attached to the floor slab object, the detailed scheduling often needs further refinement in specialized software. Some construction steps that cannot be directly modeled are added during this stage, ensuring a cohesive timeline and streamlined workflow.
Therefore, BIM serves as a foundational platform that carries extensive information and generates new data through the process of separation and refinement.
Although the integration between BIM and traditional calculation software still requires time and adaptation, the continuous growth and adoption of BIM will inevitably drive closer collaboration and synergy between these tools in the near future.
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