What is BIM?
The BIM workflow is more than just a 3D model including lots of information. We call it an attitude. An attitude of thinking before doing.
*via internet
In this case, thinking means simulation of the real execution. If you virtually prepare all the steps of the real world construction process, way before it begins, you will have the time to check everything and make the necessary corrections. Since we can avoid the unnecessary expenses and potential time loss of the on-site surprises, this method is much less expensive. Additionally, if the on-site improvisation can be avoided, the quality of the on-site workmanship will not be interrupted, either.
BIM means Building Information Management. An ordinary 3D model made for visualization is all about the looks. It has a lot of equipment and gadget for looking great on a picture or animation, but it does not have anything hidden under the surface. The BIM model has a completely different approach, since it is not made for visuals, but for taking the most information out of it. The colors are usually far from reality and it has no decoration at all, because it focuses the things under the surface. The elements are built up like in the real building, they all have names, codes, attributions, and they are filterable. The amount of information, parameter or attribute rendered to a single element is completely up to the case. The key is to handle this information.
As we virtualized the whole building process we can simulate the additional processes as well. That means we can implement the bill of quantity, the time schedule, the cost estimation as well to create a 3D database containing everything we know about the building. Due to every information linked in a single 3D model-based document, the information can be tracked in the model and there’s less possibility for mistakes.
Further along we can use this model for facility management, sustainability inspections, 3D As-built documentation for archives and many more. And of course, in the end a quantity management tool for demolition. That is the BIM life cycle. A single model, a single file updated continuously to follow the life of a building from the birth of the idea to the demolition.