Scott Green, LEED AP, Senior Project Engineer -- It seems as if every player in the construction industry today is touting their expertise with Building Information Modeling. But implementing BIM should be based on specific goals for the firm.
Goals may include project durations, productivity, quality, facility operations, or one of the many benefits of BIM. Once the goals are determined, different BIM tools can be reviewed against the goals. Only then can the appropriate tools be selected.
All too often, firms run out and purchase a BIM tool from the latest BIM presentation they attended before determining specific BIM goals. This results in the purchase of a hammer when the goal is to drive screws. Sure, the hammer can “drive” the screws, but it is not the best tool for the job. Ultimately the goals, and the company as a whole, suffer -- leading to inefficiency and waste.
At Tarlton, we have reviewed the benefits of BIM, developed specific goals and are implementing our plan. The tools we have chosen to utilize are Revit Architecture for model creation and editing, Navisworks for spatial coordination and Sharepoint for exchanging files. Keep an eye out for updates on our progress.
The early adopters of BIM are seeing real benefits from its use. Industry trends indicate BIM usage will only increase in the years to come. If there are any doubts about the benefits of BIM, I have one question: Seen any drawings done by hand lately?
Determining goals and developing a BIM plan to support the goals ensure BIM implementation will be successful.