BIM is often understood simply as modeling — a perception common not only among the general public but also within many construction companies. In reality, the adoption of BIM in China primarily began with design institutes. Initially, one of the core BIM functions embraced by these institutes was indeed modeling. However, the ultimate purpose of BIM is to develop a foundational model during the design phase. As the construction process advances, relevant data and information are progressively integrated at different stages to enable collaboration and shared use.
For instance, during the design phase, the focus is primarily on three-dimensional spatial information. The construction phase emphasizes engineering quantities, scheduling, and cost data. Meanwhile, the operation and maintenance phase centers on equipment and facility upkeep information. Therefore, modeling represents just one aspect of BIM and should not be mistaken as its entirety.
So, how should we properly understand and recognize BIM? Considering perspectives from all stakeholders, BIM encompasses three key characteristics: visualization, serving as an information carrier, and enabling collaboration.
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