Currently, domestic design institutes are paying increasing attention to BIM, and many have begun to implement it. However, results vary—some are pleased with the outcomes, while others have concerns. So today, the BIM Architecture Training Network explores key considerations design institutes should keep in mind when adopting BIM.
1. What challenges do you aim to address with BIM?
BIM offers a wide range of capabilities, but at the initial implementation stage, it’s important to set clear objectives. Based on these goals, you can select appropriate software tools and allocate personnel effectively. For example, some design institutes may struggle with BIM for drawing purposes and instead focus on pipeline coordination or building energy analysis. In such cases, deploying staff and software only within relevant design phases may suffice. As BIM adoption deepens and more project stages utilize BIM, additional resources and tools will be required.
2. Should the existing design team learn BIM software and use it directly, or should a dedicated BIM team be established?
Some firms assign one or more project teams to use BIM directly for design. Others prefer to create specialized BIM teams that support existing design teams—for instance, by providing clash detection or sustainability analysis services—with the intention of eventually handling the entire design process via BIM. Senior management must decide on the best approach, including how to evaluate BIM engineers’ performance and whether to incentivize designers who adopt BIM workflows.
3. What level of detail is necessary in BIM modeling?
BIM users sometimes fall into the trap of “overmodeling,” adding excessive detail early on. It’s best to start with conceptual components that include only basic geometry and parameters. As the project progresses, the model can be enriched with more detail. The key is to identify which details are essential and avoid unnecessary complexity. This reduces the designer’s workload and improves software performance. BIM managers should set clear standards for different project phases, using lower levels of detail during initial planning and gradually increasing detail for construction documents.
4. How should the BIM team organize collaboration?
For multi-person and multi-disciplinary projects, Revit offers two collaboration mechanisms: “Link” and “Workset.” Links allow referencing between separate models, similar to AutoCAD’s external references. Worksets divide a large model into smaller parts so multiple users can work simultaneously. For small projects, all disciplines can be combined into one model using worksets. In larger projects, it’s common to create separate models per discipline, with internal collaboration managed by worksets (e.g., different architects handling towers, podiums, and basements), and inter-disciplinary collaboration managed via linking (e.g., engineers referencing architectural models). Within the same discipline, synchronization can be continuous; across disciplines, coordination often happens at set intervals, such as every three days, to ensure stable versions before sharing. The BIM manager should determine the collaboration mode, assign tasks, set synchronization frequency, monitor progress, and resolve issues.
5. Is it necessary to establish BIM templates and component libraries, and how should they be maintained?
Many firms have extensive CAD libraries, but as BIM applications grow, developing comprehensive BIM component libraries becomes essential. This is an ongoing process. Some companies create dedicated BIM component teams, guided by BIM managers, to standardize component creation and reduce the workload on designers. This topic will be explored further later.
6. Do you have the appropriate hardware and network environment?
BIM software requires more powerful hardware than traditional 2D CAD programs, though the demands remain manageable for most design firms. Institutes should consult with software vendors to plan hardware configurations tailored to their project needs.
7. Can BIM enhance communication with clients and contractors?
Revit enables the rapid creation of high-quality 3D views and walkthroughs, which significantly improve communication with owners and construction teams without incurring extra costs. When possible, BIM should be leveraged to facilitate clearer and more effective stakeholder engagement.
Based on these considerations outlined above, it’s clear that design institutes still have a long journey ahead in fully embracing BIM.
Must log in before commenting!
Sign Up