You are on page 1of 21

BIM & DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION IN

CONSTRUCTION
2022

graitec.com Copyright GRAITEC © All rights reserved


BIM: AN INTRODUCTION

Traditionally, the construction industry was a highly fragmented field


with collaborators working individually, only to discover that additional
changes must be made to avoid clashes, duplicates and errors. While
traditional paper drafting was rapidly replaced by Computer-aided
design (CAD), Building Information Modeling (BIM) is more disruptive and
is becoming de facto the next generation of digital modeling that allows
architects, engineers, contractors, and manufacturers to work together
as a team. Working linearly has its benefits, but BIM offers greater
freedom through greater transparency across all elements of the team.

More than simply providing a blueprint for design, BIM technology


combines the creative design elements implemented by architects and
engineers with project management tools that save all stakeholders
time and money. Now, all users can work collaboratively in real time,
allowing for greater transparency on design, functionality, and timelines
thanks to the benefits of working with a single, shared file. All elements
of a project are brought together in one file—from architectural design
and sustainability performance data to materials and timelines for
delivery and construction—allowing for easier communication among all
parties. Significantly, clash detection allows team members to identify
and solve spatial problems with design or material functionality before
arriving on site.

While integrating BIM into your working practice may take some
adjustments in terms of how you manage and delegate within your
teams, adopting BIM and utilizing everything this exciting technology
has to offer can revolutionize your output and the way you manage
your projects. Rather than wasting time trading emails back and forth
with various stakeholders, you are all able to share the same files
containing information on materials and digital blueprints and access
them together in real time. By increasing transparency for all members
of the team, managers are better able to delegate tasks and supervise
implementation. Architects, engineers, contractors, and manufacturers
are all able to view and enrich data in order to optimize a streamlined
working process. Making clash data available to all stakeholders in
a digital format saves time and money when issues can be resolved,

BIM AND DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION IN CONSTRUCTION


graitec.com
1
BIM: AN INTRODUCTION

and plans adjusted before physical materials arrive to the job site. The
benefits of using BIM to work together even extend to the lifespan of the
completed structures. Access to information about the precise location
of parts, including data on the make and model, can help building
maintenance managers to quickly make repairs.

Similarly, utilizing BIM’s energy modeling can help architects, engineers,


contractors, and manufacturers build greener, but these benefits also
carry on to the owners and operators of the building long after the
teams leave the work site. Having access to data on projected energy
costs, building managers are able to track whether organizations meet
these projections or can work to reduce energy waste and save money
and our environment in tandem.

"Architects, engineers, contractors, and manufacturers are all able


to view and enrich data in order to optimize
a streamlined working process."

While there are certainly many potential benefits to integrating BIM into
your working practices, shifting into the digital realm doesn’t appeal
to everyone. In 2021, 906 built environment professionals answered the
NBS survey to shed light on the role BIM plays in their professional lives.
According to NBS, 71% of respondents use BIM in some capacity at work.
Though this number dips slightly from the 2020 survey results, only 5%
of those surveyed answered that they resisted BIM. While NBS is a British
company, the survey included feedback from 60 countries and spanned
a range of viewpoints from clients and architects to contractors and
manufacturers. What does this mean for the current state of BIM in
the built environment industry? BIM continues to be an exciting tool in
increasing tandem working and information transparency—especially
as 58% of responses indicated a hybrid approach to working from home
and the office, warehouse, or job site.

To understand the benefits of BIM, we will first offer a comprehensive

BIM AND DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION IN CONSTRUCTION


graitec.com
2
BIM: AN INTRODUCTION

overview of what BIM technology actually is and how you can use
it to your team’s advantage. Tracing the technology’s advent in the
1970s to today, we look at what BIM technology has evolved. We
will also examine the difference between BIM and CAD and explain
the advantages of moving towards using BIM in the workplace to
achieve your team’s goals. We will then move towards clarifying
the new ambitions of BIM for various project stakeholders. Once we
understand BIM and its current place in the industry, we can discuss
new innovations taking place in 2022 using BIM—from using BIM to script
AI and Automation on job sites and the way Digital Twins allow users
to run performance testing on materials before ordering them to the
benefits of employing Cloud Technology in sharing information across
all project stakeholders and how Building Energy Modeling can aid us all
in sustainability efforts for a more sustainable tomorrow. Ready to dive
in and get started? I hope so!

BIM AND DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION IN CONSTRUCTION


graitec.com
3
BIM FOR BEGINNERS

Whether you’re new to the built environment industry or have been


working in this sector for years, you’ve probably heard of BIM. BIM is
a term that’s become somewhat pervasive throughout the industry,
but let’s break it down to the basics: what does it actually mean? BIM
stands for Building Information Modeling. Simply put, aside the data
and process management, BIM can be seen as a platform allowing
users to create and design all elements of the physical and functional
aspects of a structure’s blueprint in a digital 3D model. It’s more
important than ever to consider how to best reduce cost and waste
within the built environment in order to build a better future. Managing
information about all aspects of a project and making it accessible to
all stakeholders is at the heart of BIM’s potential to transform how we
work together.

What makes this technology so special is its ability to do more than


simply provide a project blueprint. BIM technology includes features
such as management tools used to assess material performance,
allowing users to select the best possible products to fit the specific
needs of their current projects. One of the most exciting aspects of this
technology is how it has the capability to aid all stakeholders—from
architects, engineers and construction professionals to manufacturers
and clients. Manufacturing data, including the make, geometry,
dimensions, and delivery timelines, are available for users to test and
plug into the blueprint to see what works best. This information can also
aid managers to create more accurate timelines for delivery and on-site
execution to reduce costs and manage client expectations. Moreover,
rather than discovering design mistakes on the job site, clash detection
within BIM programs lets users identify and eliminate errors that would
have previously popped up based on a lack of information on conflicting
design elements.

BIM also includes features that allow users to consider energy usage
data during both the construction phase as well as simulating a
projection of the energy output and cost of the finished structure.
While this data exists within a BIM file, the key to its significance is
in each team’s use of this report. Interpreting this information can

BIM AND DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION IN CONSTRUCTION


graitec.com
4
BIM FOR BEGINNERS

help professionals make smart choices on design, material choices,


and project timelines to build more sustainably and create structures
optimized to reduce energy usage in the long term. Building emissions
are currently responsible for about 28% of annual emissions, with an
additional 11% attributed specifically to materials and construction. If
we are able to reduce waste on this front, not only do we save money for
individual stakeholders, but also contribute to building a better future.
Adopting BIM as a major player in your workflow is a small step towards
a greener planet for all.

Now that we know a bit about what


BIM stands for and its capabilities,
let’s step back in time and look at
the evolution of this technology and
processes. As computers began to
outstrip manual processes, innovators
within the field began working to
expand what digitization could mean
for the built environment industry. The "It’s more
technology that grew to become BIM important than ever
began developing in the 1970s. There is
no one true inventor of BIM, seeing as to consider how to
multiple companies were dedicated to best reduce cost
advancing digital modeling software to
and waste within the
shift the built environment industry into
the future. BIM’s roots lie in AutoCAD, built environment in
a drafting software, which was further
order to build a better
expanded to include additional data
like manufacturing details, time and future."
cost projections, and sustainability
simulations. By 1986, the term “building
model” was being used in academic
journals to describe the functionality
of these emerging software programs,
though BIM as an acronym only gained
traction around the Millennium.

BIM AND DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION IN CONSTRUCTION


graitec.com
5
BIM FOR BEGINNERS

As digitization became the tool of the future, industry professionals


were increasingly torn between the benefits of investing in BIM or
continuing to work with one of its rivals—Computer-Aided Design
(CAD). BIM and CAD run parallel to each other in terms of concept: both
programs digitize the process of designing and sharing a blueprint
for construction. The key difference however, lies in each program’s
characteristics. CAD primarily focuses on 2D digital models, though
now also has 3D capabilities. CAD allows users to draw digital models
of objects before they are manufactured or built, allowing for users
to share and modify designs by sharing the file. Sounds a lot like
BIM, doesn’t it? Though the two systems share a common DNA, BIM’s
commitment to information transparency is a powerful feature which
outstrips the capabilities of CAD.

What’s the difference between 3D CAD modeling and BIM? The


information included in a BIM file goes beyond the geometry of an object
or structure to include metadata, relationships between materials, and
simulations of how the structure might perform in real life. Additionally,
rather than sharing copies of a file, BIM includes more information in a
common dataset which can be accessed by all stakeholders, accessing
the right data depending on their needs, simultaneously using Cloud
technology. While we will go into further detail on the transformative
impact of Cloud technology within BIM in chapter three, this capability
is one of the benefits that sets BIM apart from CAD modeling. BIM’s
ability to simplify the flow of information in real time across the various
teams working on a singular project saves time and eliminates the
potential confusion and miscommunication of sending individual files
and falling behind or advancing too far ahead of other stakeholders who
do not have access in real time to files, necessitating additional emails
back and forth to fix any design clashes.

While incorporating BIM into your professional practices won’t


automatically improve your business overnight, learning how to make
the most of the technology’s capabilities can change the way we
manage our businesses. BIM does make the right data available, and
it’s up to the user to interpret this information depending on his skills

BIM AND DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION IN CONSTRUCTION


graitec.com
6
BIM FOR BEGINNERS

and needs. To make the most of this data, project managers may need
to adapt their current working practices in terms of how they delegate
tasks and determine project timelines. For example, manufacturers
interested in reaching a wider client base can digitize their products so
that they’re compatible with BIM software and can manufacture this BIM
data. Tagging materials with searchable terms allows users to access
a wider variety of makes and models, allowing architects, engineers
and construction professionals to source the exact product they need
and expand manufacturers’ reach virtually. It might feel uncomfortable
to change long-standing systems but, the benefits of BIM outweigh the
growing pains of shifting the way we do business.
Next, we will discuss how BIM specifically impacts various stakeholders
within the built environment industry and address potential ways for BIM
to enhance their workflow.

BIM AND DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION IN CONSTRUCTION


graitec.com
7
NEW AMBITIONS OF BIM

One of the transformative aspects of BIM is how it can impact multiple


fields within the built environment industry. From architects and clients
to engineers, contractors and manufacturers, BIM can help teams save
money through greater efficiency and transparency of information. The
new ambition of BIM goes beyond simply encouraging BIM adoption
to show the variety of ways this technology can revolutionize stale
business practices in favor of project management strategies that
benefit all involved.

ARCHITECTS AND ENGINEERS

Incorporating BIM into your workflow as an architect or an engineer


is an easy transition. Rather than stick with 2D plans—whether they’re
traditionally drafted or digitized—moving towards 3D BIM plans will
save time and money for professionals looking to streamline the flow
of information between their team, their subcontractors and the client.
Before BIM, architects using CAD design would revise a single file
multiple times after going back and forth between the client’s feedback
and that of structural engineers. The 3D model would be composed
of multiple 2D CAD plans which would need to be checked against the
“master” plan originally negotiated amongst all three parties. Checking
and rechecking by the architect, client, and engineer was crucial to
avoiding an error in building the 3D CAD file, taking up time and risking
human error.

Shifting into using BIM simplifies this process. BIM files allow users
to view various layers of the plan—from the foundations and pipes to
the striking design features that catch our eye when the structure is
complete. Rather than create multiple files that need to be layered
and compiled, BIM software allows the engineering team to design the
mechanical and structural layer within the same file as the architects
who are able to build the design. Working on different layers within the
same file makes it easier to see whether the plans coordinate with the
structural design without going back and forth and losing time. The
precision of BIM communicates the exact geometry and data about

BIM AND DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION IN CONSTRUCTION


graitec.com
8
NEW AMBITIONS OF BIM

materials necessary to bring a building off the digital page and into
reality.

Using BIM can also help architects and engineers consider new uses
of materials and minimize environmental impacts. BIM software
allows users to search for particular products such as double-glazed
windows or experiment with different flooring and see data on product
availability, ability to withstand the elements, and how each element
works within the design—both in a standalone capacity as well as in
collaboration with other aspects of the design. This kind of data was
impossible within a 2D model and has the capacity to truly revolutionize
how architects think about the design process.

Most critically for architects and engineers, digitizing plans allows


design teams to have a stronger spatial awareness beyond simply the
aesthetic value of a design. Being able to move through a 3D model
helps bring the dimensions of rooms, hallways, and doorways into
focus. Design features that may score points aesthetically are put to
the test in terms of their function when you’re in the designing phase,
rather than hear this feedback late in the process while contractors are
on the job site. Similarly, client communication is clearer as 3D visuals
allow the client to clearly see what you're planning, rather than trying to
understand a 2D blueprint.

CONSTRUCTION

BIM benefits construction professionals through its capability to aid


in project management and create an ease of communication. Prior to
BIM adoption, 2D plans were ubiquitous. While the information on these
blueprints was precise, it was difficult to visualize the structure in 3D.
Moreover, maintaining accuracy when moving from the planning stage
to the job site was in jeopardy—especially considering how the multiple
rounds of design reassessment and adjustment of the plans among
stakeholders could result in potential oversights. Luckily, with BIM,
margin for error is reduced.

BIM AND DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION IN CONSTRUCTION


graitec.com
9
NEW AMBITIONS OF BIM

Access to the digital plans in the preconstruction phase allows


contractors to present more accurate cost analysis and timelines for the
project. During the design phase, contractors can communicate directly
with the architects and structural engineers to clarify expectations
before the plans are completed. Any glaring issues can be straightened
out before materials are ordered and the team is assembled on the job
site.

As BIM technology offers data on the cost and accessibility of materials,


it’s possible to accurately assess margins and approve budgets,
preventing conflict over unexpected costs down the line which will
please clients and contractors alike. Clash detection on every layer of
the BIM file also help identify potential issues with materials, spatial
organization, or conflicting design before the construction phase
begins. Being able to share plans with all stakeholders reduces the
potential for miscommunication and creates an open dialogue between
the architects, structural engineers, contractors and clients. Having a
virtual model of the building plan also allow contractors to optimize site
logistics in order to streamline the construction process and eliminate
potential hazards on the job site. The ability to map out

During the construction phase itself, BIM plans become an information


depository. If you’re working with subcontractors, BIM makes it easy to
communicate even with outside teams. Thanks to the additional data
built into every aspect of the digital blueprint, contractors have all of
the information they need at their fingertips. By updating the digital
blueprint as construction advances, it’s possible to track your progress
and better manage the project. Rather than let the blueprint stand as a
static plan, contractors can link building schedules to various aspects
of the digital blueprint. As a project management tool, it’s possible to
delegate tasks within teams directly in the BIM file. Updating the file
with data on material delivery timelines aids team leaders in effectively
organizing workflows on the job site to save time and money. By using
the BIM blueprint as both an instructional plan as well as a way to track
and organize the construction phase, team leaders are able to share

BIM AND DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION IN CONSTRUCTION


graitec.com
10
NEW AMBITIONS OF BIM

information about current progress and timelines with other project


stakeholders.

MANUFACTURING

To successfully complete a project, built environment professionals are


all looking for the same thing: reliable product data. Manufacturers are
the most knowledgeable about their own products—all you need is a way
to transmit information to a wide variety of project stakeholders. This
is where BIM can help. With a little adjustment, using BIM can radically
change the way you do business, driving sales and giving manufacturers
additional information about product performance and trends within the
market.

First and foremost, you may need to restructure your current system
of providing product details. In order to make your products more
searchable, and thus increasing the likelihood of being chosen for a
project, manufacturers need to use smart data. Formatting product
data to optimize analytics allows for architects or contractors
searching for a particular or popular product feature to find your
product whether they’re familiar with your brand or not. By using
smart data, manufacturers are expanding their sales funnel. To do this,
manufacturers may need to streamline and standardize the information
about each product across their system to correspond with BIM. It’s
key to use industry standard language to describe products, allowing
for searchability. While this may seem like a lot of extra work to
reformat existing data, this standardization will pay off. If more industry
professionals have access to precise product specifications and
object geometry, it’s more likely that they will select these products to
incorporate into their current and future projects.

Additionally, by making all of the product data BIM compatible,


manufacturers will also have access to information on the demographics
of the market. By checking who has been trying out products within their
BIM files, manufacturers can source additional information about their
customers. Moreover, by tracking the numbers of potential customers

BIM AND DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION IN CONSTRUCTION


graitec.com
11
NEW AMBITIONS OF BIM

versus those who actually purchase products, manufacturers can adjust


their sales funnel to close the gap. Knowing what precise features
contractors and design professionals are looking for can help instigate
new product lines or integrate the needs of the customer into current
offerings to become a preferred supplier.
While having that data available can be a time and cost-saving
measure for construction and design professionals, shifting the
way the supply chain currently functions. By changing the way
manufacturers communicate accurate product data, this can act as a
simple strategy to drive sales by increasing information transparency.
As in many industries, knowledge is power and giving construction
and architectural teams access to product data allows them to
make informed decisions which will expand the manufacturer’s brand
awareness and sales.

CLIENTS AND BUILDING MANAGEMENT

One misconception of BIM technology is that it is simply a digital


blueprint used during the design and construction phase of a project.
On the contrary, incorporating BIM into working practices has long-term
benefits for clients and facility managers as well. As previously
discussed, information transparency facilitates communication across
teams and various project stakeholders. Clients don’t like surprises when
it comes to design, cost or timelines, which to be honest, can be quite a
lot in the construction industry. Access to BIM blueprints, digitizing all
of this information, allows clients to check in with the progress of their
building projects in real time as updates roll in. This information allows
clients to set realistic expectations as the project progresses.

Digital, 3D blueprints help clients clearly visualize the design of the


space, preventing possible misunderstandings concerning design
elements, functionality, or cost. Having all of the information ready for
clients to access creates clearer communication, saving time for all
stakeholders. Being able to make critical adjustments early on in the
process avoids taking the time to redesign or make major changes after

BIM AND DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION IN CONSTRUCTION


graitec.com
12
NEW AMBITIONS OF BIM

the project has progressed to the construction stage. Sharing plans,


including information from the construction team about timelines,
clarifies any hold-ups in the process. Information sharing in this regard
helps reassure clients that their project is in good hands.

Similarly, BIM digital blueprints continue being useful even after the
project is built. Facility managers are able to use these files in building
maintenance. Knowing the make and model, as well as the “lifespan” of
a product used in the built environment, allowing facility managers to
create their own maintenance timelines to replace critical objects on
time. Similarly, if an object does need to be replaced ahead of schedule
for any reason, manufacturing information is accessible. Additionally,
repairs are streamlined based on knowing the precise location of various
elements. For example, in the case of a water leak, facility managers
are able to identify the location of pipes, saving time and money during
a repair.Furthermore, if sustainability goals are important to building
owners, they are able to compare their projected energy usage that
was determined during the design phase to their actual energy use. By
having these statistics on hand, facility managers can make decisions
regarding energy usage using concrete data in order to facilitate real
change.

BIM AND DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION IN CONSTRUCTION


graitec.com
13
THIS YEAR IN BIM: A RETROSPECTIVE

Software engineers are always thinking outside of the box to create new
ways for BIM to advance the built environment industry. What’s new in
BIM in 2022? From involving AI and automation or using digital twins to
employing cloud sharing and focusing on building energy modeling, BIM
technology is adapting to an ever-changing world. Let’s take a closer
look at what’s new and how teams can use these advancements to their
advantage.

AI AND AUTOMATION

Digital transformation is not the only advancement within the built


environment industry. Using Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the next frontier
for BIM technology. Using BIM in construction workflows has improved
efficiency but, utilizing AI could push these advances even further. First,
let’s discuss the basics of AI. AI is a computer or machine’s ability to
establish the ability to make decisions and incorporate new information,
mimicking the reasoning ability of a human. The use of AI means
that more tasks that would usually be completed by a person can be
outsourced to a program. Taking advantage of AI can mean increased
productivity, streamlined project timelines, and even betterquality
output.

One of the strengths of BIM software lies in its data collection. From
information about manufacturing products to the precision of the
structural design, a BIM file is rich with possibilities. By feeding this data
to AI, the computer will assess all the possibilities of the various objects,
quickly coming to a conclusion that could take hours if done by the users
themselves. By inputting criteria into the program via coding, users
give AI a range of design options to work within the script, with this
being labelled as a generative design Once the computer has finished
designing a blueprint based on the initial information range, users can
then opt to tweak the design. Similarly, once planning has left the design
stage and moved towards the job site, using AI can prevent workplace
injuries and on-site accidents by identifying possible health and safety
risks based on the information accessible within the file. Identifying risk

BIM AND DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION IN CONSTRUCTION


graitec.com
14
THIS YEAR IN BIM: A RETROSPECTIVE

ahead of time increases on-site safety as well as efficiency.

A benefit of AI is that the program is constantly “learning” by taking any


human adjustments into consideration. By learning from ongoing and
past projects, AI is constantly absorbing more information. Eventually
the program will be able to predict the information users will want
and update the file. This allows the design phase to move much faster,
saving time on basic layouts or repetitive tasks, freeing up time for
users to concentrate on innovative aspects of a plan. Additionally, by
using AI within BIM, users can see the progress on the job site in real
time. As completed aspects are logged within the program, AI is able to
calculate how much work is left and whether the project is following the
initial projected timeline. By automatically calculating this information,
all stakeholders have a better idea of their progress, allowing for
aligned expectations across the board.

DIGITAL TWINS

The differences between Digital Twins and BIM technology can come
across confusing. While both involve digital models of an object (or
in this case, of a structure), they serve different purposes and can be
used together to show stakeholders how digital models can be used
throughout project development rather than act as static plans. Let’s
start with the basics: what is a Digital Twin? Simply put, Digital Twins
are digital replicas of a model, file, or object. This includes data on the
various materials used as well as the design. BIM takes this information
to the next level by focusing on layering various data from the blueprint
to timelines for product delivery, enhancing efficiency and best
practices for project management.

Digital Twins can certainly be used on their own but, the benefits
of having a digital replica are enhanced when combined with BIM
technology. Where Digital Twins act as a digital replica, BIM technology
allows users to visualize and optimize the transformation of the digital
plan into a real structure. Plugging a Digital Twin into the datasets

BIM AND DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION IN CONSTRUCTION


graitec.com
15
THIS YEAR IN BIM: A RETROSPECTIVE

provided by BIM allows users to access a streamlined flow of information


that can be used during both the design and construction phase of a
project to enhance workflows. All stakeholders will have access to the
Digital Twin within BIM, which involves dynamic data. As one element
of the design is altered or information is added, this information will be
available to all users simultaneously.

Most importantly, Digital Twins can be used as sources of information


regarding the structure. Users are able to run tests on object
performance and energy efficiency to gather information about the
functionality of the future completed structure. For example, a Digital
Twin can give users information about the impact on the structure
should the electricity be cut or similar system failures. Knowing this
information allows stakeholders to optimize the best approach, aiding
future facility management.

CLOUD TECHNOLOGY

The benefits of utilizing Cloud technology are self-evident in today’s


landscape. The Cloud is ubiquitous—from outsourcing storage on
our Smartphones to saving and sharing changes within a digital
modeling file. Applying this advancement to BIM software is a critical
improvement to help BIM react to the contemporary needs of the
industry.

Cloud technology enhances communication between teams and


information sharing, working with the existing structure of BIM
technology to allow all stakeholders to access the same files in real
time. Why is this important? Cloud technology allows for real-time
collaboration. With Cloud, gone are the days when stakeholders would
need to wait for updated plans to be emailed between teams. Differing
time zones and physical locations are no longer obstacles to rapid
information sharing. Now all parties can access the information at the
same time. Accessing files to track changes from other stakeholders
while making new adjustments creates a smoother workflow. Similarly,

BIM AND DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION IN CONSTRUCTION


graitec.com
16
THIS YEAR IN BIM: A RETROSPECTIVE

tasks can be assigned in real time to various team members within


Cloud-based BIM files.
Additionally, if used in combination with smart sensors on the
infrastructure elements, Cloud technology can help update information
in the BIM plan in real time as construction advances on the job site.
This kind of information sharing allows for more precise project
timelines. Live reporting on project progress helps everyone involved
solve problems as they arise. As multiple teams have the same access
to information about the project, they are able to move forward whilst
, having this information at hand helps project managers delegate
effectively and plan each stage of construction. Being able to
accurately communicate to clients whether the project is advancing on
schedule, builds trust.

BUILDING ENERGY MODELING

Sustainability is more than just a buzzword. According to the United


Nations 2021 Global Status Report for Buildings and Construction, the
built environment industry is currently responsible for about 36% of
global emissions. Considering this statistic, building sustainably is more
critical than ever. Opting for more sustainable materials is a start, but in
order to build a better future, we must build with longevity, adaptability,
and even disassembly in mind. While no one is aiming for structures to be
temporary, it’s in everyone’s best interest to think ahead about dynamic
solutions to the rising impact of Climate Change.

As we’ve discussed throughout this paper, BIM technology involves many


layers of information which helps stakeholders build smarter and better.
One of BIM’s most exciting elements is the ability to assess building
energy modeling. Building energy modeling is a software simulation of
a completed structure’s energy usage. Taking all of BIM’s information
into consideration—including structural geometry, materials and HVAC—
building energy modeling can devise a comprehensive analysis of a
structure’s potential sustainability. Building energy modeling takes these
aspects into consideration as well as the region’s climate to calculate

BIM AND DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION IN CONSTRUCTION


graitec.com
17
THIS YEAR IN BIM: A RETROSPECTIVE

potential usage and prevent overloading the system or contributing to


energy waste. Having this data early on in the design process allows
architects and clients to decide together how to optimize a structure
for energy efficiency. Every professional should consider sustainability
as part of their tasks and it shouldn’t be the sole responsibility of the
architect. This is a combined effort and encapsulates all involved
with a project, from the structural engineer when calculating and
optimizing the structure, the manufacturer when fabricating the partsto
the general contractors when building on site.BIM encourage sall
professionals working together to build a more sustainable tomorrow!

While building energy modeling is focused on increasing sustainability,


meeting these goals have business benefits for clients as well as
architects, engineers and contractors. Working efficiently through
BIM to create sustainable structures helps all stakeholders save time
and money along the way. Building with building energy modeling’s
sustainability data in mind can help stakeholders create structures
that serve the client’s needs. By using BIM to examine simulations of a
building’s energy usage, we can work together for greener construction
during the job as well as for future management of the completed
structure.

BIM AND DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION IN CONSTRUCTION


graitec.com
18
CONCLUSION

BIM technology is dynamic in today’s changing world,


making it the ideal tool and processes for the construction
industry. While transitioning towards BIM-centric
practices may take time, the potential benefits are
enticing. Optimizing BIM files, processes and data allows
better communication and information transparency
across all stakeholders regardless of which element of
the process they are working on. Project management
has never been easier with the ability to assign tasks to
teams within the program or real-time data on timelines.
Adapting to new advances in technology like utilizing
the Cloud for real-time sharing or AI scripts to eliminate
repetitive tasks. Most importantly, BIM makes strides
towards a more sustainable tomorrow, paving the way for
a greener future for the built environment industry.

Discover more on graitec.com. Please


contact us to help you implement BIM
workflows in your company.

BIM AND DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION IN CONSTRUCTION


graitec.com
19
BIM AND DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION IN CONSTRUCTION
graitec.com

You might also like