Today, there are many BIM software options available, each offering different features. However, due to conceptual misunderstandings, many people remain unclear about what BIM truly entails. It’s important not to be misled by marketing tactics. Some software claim to be BIM but are not, some never claim to be full-fledged BIM software, and some providers don’t even have a clear understanding of BIM themselves, yet they might be the largest BIM service providers. Most individuals who receive BIM training lack a solid grasp of the concept, and those who have undergone training often remain confused. Based on their functions, BIM software can generally be categorized into three types:
1. Drawing-Based BIM: This category includes software like Revit and other Autodesk products, which are the most widely recognized. In fact, Autodesk acquired several such products. Today, when most people say they understand BIM, they usually mean they know how to create drawings using Revit. This type of BIM application can essentially be considered as CAD enhanced with 3D capabilities.
2. Specialty-Based BIM: This group consists of software tailored to specific disciplines. For example, ArchiCAD—the first BIM software launched in the 1980s—is primarily used in architecture. Domestically, Tianzheng Architecture competes with PKPM from the Chinese Academy of Building Research in structural design. Although Tianzheng focuses on structural design and its built-in graphics engine is not very user-friendly, it still qualifies as a comprehensive BIM system. Other specialties such as acoustics, lighting, energy consumption, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and weak current monitoring also have dedicated software solutions.
In addition, budget and cost estimation software have become increasingly important, with quantity calculation as a key feature. PKPM leads in this area with its proprietary system, while publicly listed companies like Guanglian Da and Luban also participate in BIM development. Regarding service providers, Crystal Stone Company, a major renderer producer in China, could be considered the largest BIM service provider. They use 3D modeling tools—primarily 3ds Max or similar software suited for rendering—to create models for clients.
Autodesk also offers several professional software products suitable for architectural, structural, and HVAC design, mostly built on the Revit platform. In specialty-based BIM, if a company lacks its own drawing platform or graphics engine, it typically relies on third-party platforms, with Autodesk’s CAD and Revit being the most common choices. Some manufacturers have developed their own graphics engines, but this is a highly specialized task. For core competitiveness, many choose to forgo their own engines and adopt third-party solutions instead. This is similar to Autodesk’s approach: it excels at graphics engines but acquires professional capabilities and products through continuous acquisitions.
3. Management-Based BIM: This category focuses on facility management and full lifecycle management, an area in which I have the most expertise. Despite being a leading field globally, it remains underdeveloped in China. Currently, there is no domestic software specializing in this area, but many international options exist. For example, Archibus from the United States is a leader in this sector, and we have previously discussed the 2D BIM case represented by Archibus.
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