What is BIM? An Introduction to the BIM Concept
Before the emergence of the BIM concept, 3D geometric modeling was initially developed and advanced through research since the 1960s in fields such as film, architecture, engineering, and game design. In 1973, three teams from the University of Cambridge, Stanford University, and the University of Rochester — including Ian Braid (Cambridge University), Bruce Baumgart (Stanford), Ari Requicha, and Herb Voelcker — developed the ability to create and edit any 3D solid and volume-enclosed shape.
By the late 1970s and early 1980s, architectural modeling was first applied to 3D solid modeling, evolving from CAD system technology. Due to the advanced system functions exceeding the capabilities of general computer calculations, many challenges emerged within the production industry. As CAD systems improved and parameterized shapes developed, 3D modeling gradually shifted away from purely geometric shapes to follow parameterized rules defined by connectivity. With the integration of these parameterized rules and graphical representation, BIM began to take shape.
BIM stands for Building Information Modeling. According to the BIM Building Information Modeling Manual (2013), BIM establishes inherent information for each building element and integrates the building lifecycle. This integration enhances the modeling system across planning, design, construction, operation, and maintenance processes, making it fully applicable to construction projects.
BIM is used early in design to visualize building models and drawings that can be easily modified, enabling rapid development of design solutions. It serves as a quick evaluation and analysis tool to assess requirements, budgets, and owner feedback (McDuffe, 2007). This process helps architects reduce design errors and wasted time, thereby improving efficiency, customer satisfaction, and producing more accurate and consistent designs.
Moreover, BIM models can be simulated for various aspects such as energy performance, structural integrity, and construction progress through external or integrated software tools (for example, energy analysis within REVIT). This capability allows designers to address and resolve various design challenges during the design process.
Building models created with BIM exhibit the following characteristics:
（1） Building components are digitally represented with computable graphical and data attributes, enabling software to recognize objects. Parameterized rules allow for more intelligent manipulation of these objects.
（2） Each component contains data describing its properties and behavior, enabling users to analyze and adjust workflows based on this data and practical experience — for example, using energy analysis to improve work efficiency.
（3） Any changes made to components are automatically updated and reflected across all views.
（4） Unified and coordinated data ensures a complete and error-free model.
After decades of development, BIM has led to the creation of several industry-leading software solutions, including:
| Name of BIM Software | Key Features | Developer | Country of Origin |
|---|---|---|---|
| Revit | Integrated mechanical, electrical, structural, and architectural design | Autodesk | United States |
| Archicad | Intuitive operation and powerful object management system | Graphisoft | Hungary |
| Bentley | Software focused on civil engineering, supporting complex surface systems | Bentley | United States |
| Vectorworks | Cross-platform operating system integration | Vectorworks | United States |
| Digital Project | Powerful and comprehensive parametric modeling capabilities | Digital Project | France |
| Tekla Structure | Combines structural materials and details with flexible modeling | Tekla Corp. | Finland |
| DProfiles | Conceptual-level projects and detailed financial evaluation capabilities | PTC | United States |
That concludes our introduction to What is BIM? An Introduction to the BIM Concept. I hope this article has been helpful to you!
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