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17 Feb
BIM is an acronym standing for Building Information Modelling, or Building Information Model. It is used to create a unified approach to the process of designing a building with multiple collaborators on one computer system, rather than using separate sets of drawings.
Even though the word building is used, the system applies to a range of sectors, and it is something that people in every form of construction need to be aware of.
Offering huge savings in cost and time, higher levels of accuracy, and the avoidance of errors, alterations and reworking; BIM is a great solution to numerous construction industry issues.
What is it?
“A digital representation of physical and functional characteristics of a facility… and a shared knowledge resource for information about a facility forming a reliable basis for decisions during its life-cycle; defined as existing from earliest conception to demolition.”
This definition comes from the National Institute of Building Sciences in the US, but is isn’t always simple for people approaching it to understand what it means!
Describing the function of BIM is easier than explaining the intricacies. The basis of the idea is to give a “one-stop” location for everyone involved in construction and engineering services. Through a unified system where all sectors can submit information, drawings and technical data, BIM gives everyone the same information in the same way, rather than having to know specific information which may be beyond their specialisation.
How can it help you?
By bringing all the aspects together, BIM puts everything in one place for all purposes. Whether you are looking to find out information about fire ratings on certain doors, structural formation of a roof or any other quantifiable aspect, BIM gives you full access.
This reduces the risk of mistakes and discrepancies, saving time and money across the whole project. The data available through BIM gives illustrations across the entire cycle of a build, from initial designs, through to finalized specifications and requirements.
Through BIM, all spaces, systems and products are shown in the same scenario and scale, relevant to each other and the entire project. As well as seeing other aspects, this also lets those working on the project see any errors and problems.
Who does it apply to?
BIM doesn’t have a definitive list of people who it does or does not apply to, but if one the below applies to you, then you should be aware of BIM:
– Do you carry out work on projects using public funding? According to figures, public funding comes into play in half of all construction projects in the UK.
– Do you need to be pre-qualified for a project? Nearly all industry pre-qualification portals have made BIM awareness mandatory as part of assessments.
– Would ignoring BIM put you behind the competition? With high rates of adoption, BIM and collaborative working creates stumbling blocks for those who don’t use it.
The future of BIM
The future of the whole construction industry will be focused on the digital aspects of planning and designing. This applies to both the creation and the distribution of information, which is exactly where BIM sits.
The requirements for 2016 is for all centrally procured Government projects to be a fully collaborative 3D BIM, giving full digital access. This will only increase in reach and usage as time moves on, so early adoption is key to improving services and ensuring that you are used to the systems involved.
Building Information Modelling & JRC
For more information on BIM, how it affects you and what you need to know in relation to slate roofing, we are here to help. Whether you need information from a beginner’s standpoint, or specific technical data, we can easily help you in relation to all of our products.