How to Successfully Implement BIM

 

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is being requested by an increasing number of clients worldwide, and numerous public clients have mandated its use on their projects. To avoid being disqualified from working on an increasing number of projects, architects, engineers, and contractors need to implement BIM into their current working practices.  Additionally, adopting BIM has a number of benefits for all parties involved in the process. However, the process of transitioning to a new working method can seem daunting, particularly at the beginning.  Here’s what you need to consider and how to prepare for a successful BIM implementation.

Define and Communicate the Benefits

The benefits of using BIM as the primary design and working method differ for each project discipline. By identifying the benefits that each party will realize by adopting BIM, a suitable implementation strategy can be developed that takes into account the characteristics of the business and the steps that need to be adjusted and synchronized.  Design teams will benefit from improved accuracy and coordination, while contractors will have an earlier understanding and involvement in the design than traditional construction approaches, for example.

 Instead of being a directive from management that must be followed, BIM works best when it is adopted as a way of thinking and delivering projects. Involving all employees with the new process will help them understand the advantages of BIM and how they personally will benefit from the new approach.  Not only will this help overcome any potential reservations that staff may have, it will also help change the culture within the office.

Develop a BIM Implementation Strategy

A BIM implementation strategy can aid in the identification, management, and successful execution of all necessary actions. Like any project, setting clearly defined goals and milestones and assigning responsibilities, budgets, and time constraints will give your organization the best chance of making the transition to BIM a smooth one.  A documented strategy also provides employees with a visual roadmap of the implementation and encourages free and open communication about the process, so that it can be adjusted if needed.  Another useful method for ensuring that the plan is discussed and evaluated so that the team can share best practices is to record the outcomes of each implementation step.

Choosing the Right BIM Software

Getting the right features for your needs is another important aspect of a successful BIM implementation.  Whether you need to create organized data structures for quick access to project information, design user-defined objects that can contain geometric and alphanumeric information, or share information easily with other parties, pinpointing what is critical to your workflow is an essential exercise before choosing a BIM software package.

 However, the transition process can be significantly improved and made easier by finding a software vendor who will work with you to identify the features you require and the technical conditions that will be required. For example, as a leading BIM expert, Rightserve offer a wide range of support and advice for all our customers and work with you as a partner rather than just a supplier.