Today, we will discuss the Experience of BIM Engineers in BIM Applications. Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a technological concept that emerged recently—though some view it as a strategy introduced by Autodesk to generate profit. But what exactly is BIM? Instead of giving a textbook definition (which you can easily find online if interested), I will share my observations, insights, and practical experience.
In simple terms, BIM involves assigning 3D geometric shapes enriched with various data attributes to construction elements. Think of it as an object defined by spatial geometric information and attribute data. For example, when drawing a beam, we specify spatial details like endpoints and length to shape its cross-section, then attach relevant data such as volume, surface area, construction schedule, cost, labor hours, and more, as illustrated in the figure below.
Using this component-based design approach, we embed detailed information into a 3D model. Then, through information management and retrieval techniques, we can extract and utilize stored data for tasks like template quantity calculation, concrete volume estimation, and construction duration simulation. This helps engineers access the information they need efficiently.
Beyond being an information repository, the BIM model is widely used for spatial conflict detection. By visualizing 3D models, design and planning conflicts among different disciplines become apparent, enabling early review and correction before construction begins. The professionals responsible for implementing these processes are known as BIM engineers—essentially an evolution of traditional 2D CAD drafters.
However, my main focus is not on the benefits of BIM, which are well-documented and appreciated by software vendors and project owners. Instead, I want to take a practical look at the current situation of BIM engineers in the industry.
As mentioned earlier, BIM’s power lies in its ability to store and access both geometric and attribute information. Its effectiveness depends on two key factors: the completeness of the information and the rigor of the software architecture. The former relies on the modeler’s understanding of information requirements and modeling skills, while the latter depends on the BIM software’s ability to calculate or access the necessary data.
Let’s start with the reality faced by many practitioners today. Since many organizations treat BIM as an extension of drafting work, salaries are often aligned with drafting positions. This results in most BIM staff being drafters or recent graduates, like myself, with little or no onsite experience. A major issue arises because, after creating the BIM model, extracting truly needed data often proves impossible—mainly because the design phase did not account for these data requirements.
Even when information needs are recognized, immature or inadequate modeling techniques can make fulfilling these requirements unachievable, especially when components extend beyond the original software architecture. Developing new components involves programming, a task beyond the scope of typical drafting professionals.
In addition to practitioner challenges, the software itself has notable limitations. The industry’s most commonly used tool, Revit, exemplifies these issues. For instance, even after modeling the main structure, Revit cannot directly provide the surface area of formwork needed (though it can be stored via calculation within components, this diminishes the model’s original purpose). Furthermore, Revit’s component-based model struggles with complex tasks like joining curved beams or composite walls, which involve fusion logic beyond the software’s current capabilities. This frequently results in models producing drawings that don’t match expected appearances.
These software limitations cannot be overcome by drafters alone. Moreover, when design changes occur or multiple options are considered, BIM engineers face significant challenges. Unlike traditional 2D drawings, 3D models cannot be altered arbitrarily—every line is generated through precise geometric calculations, so size deviations immediately manifest on the model’s surface.
This is a double-edged sword and a major source of frustration for BIM modelers. Many conflicts or design decisions can only be finalized after review or contract approval. Yet BIM models cannot be developed under conditions of absolute certainty, and their value diminishes if they are not adaptable. Consequently, BIM modeling often proceeds amid uncertainties, leading to continuous revisions.
While modifying 2D CAD drawings is also challenging—often resulting in missed surfaces or overlooked updates that create new conflicts—BIM addresses coordination issues through computational consistency. However, this interconnectivity means that every change causes a ripple effect: deleting a column might affect connecting beams, or removing a floor could displace components above and below. Thus, although BIM resolves drawing inconsistencies, it can be less flexible and agile than 2D CAD when handling changes.
In practice, tasks that take one week with traditional drafting can take a month with BIM. Changes that require two or three days in 2D CAD might also drag on for a month in BIM, leading to criticism from owners and contractors. These issues cause significant pressure and frustration among BIM practitioners, especially regarding technology and time constraints.
The construction industry’s tough market discourages IT professionals, who often lack civil engineering knowledge, from engaging with BIM. Poor-quality BIM models produced under unfavorable conditions further disappoint owners and contractors, who become reluctant to invest, creating a vicious cycle. Particularly with the current push for BIM in public projects, it has gained a negative reputation. As a result, most models are built at minimal cost, treated as contractual deliverables rather than tools to support engineering progress.
Therefore, BIM is not an effective tool under traditional contracting methods—at best, it adds personnel and software costs. Its true value emerges under one-stop or turnkey project delivery modes, where integrated workflows can leverage BIM fully. However, due to current limitations in skills and software, its potential remains constrained.
Despite these challenges, BIM offers significant opportunities for ambitious individuals. The value and appeal of simulation-based construction are undeniable and enduring. I hope my insights into the Experience of BIM Engineers in BIM Applications can be helpful to everyone!
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