Climbing the BIM ladder – Clients

The benefits of Building Information Modelling (BIM) are often well publicised within the construction design industry, but still need to be understood by those outside of the design element of the industry. The more we champion the process, the more clients will buy in and the easier it becomes to establish BIM on each new project. Here are LEDA’s top three reasons why BIM should be considered for a building project.

Better communication between contractors

Many projects have design teams which are fragmented, both organisationally and geographically. Lack of communication causes errors and mistakes add cost.

BIM not only supports better communication it demands it. This is achieved by utilisation of the common date environment (CDE) and scheduling information exchanges up front. By creating an environment where everyone in the team can share knowledge safely and efficiently, we can minimise unforeseen issues down the line.

Making the most of the software available

Progress in modelling and drawing software means that it is easier than ever to share information and collaborate during the design process.

Federated models bring information from each service together in one place and highlight clashes well in advance of the construction phase. Volume strategies make it clear who is responsible in what areas and a well thought out project information plan ensures that all this information is available when it is needed most.

Information handovers are often the greatest source of wasted hours. Miscommunication leads to errors and work is repeated needlessly. By standardising on software we make sure to hand over information that is in a useable format and by using established BIM protocols we ensure a consistently high quality of work from the entire design team..

From construction, to commissioning and beyond

The ability to embed information in the models and drawings we create is a powerful tool and one that can help not only during the construction phase, but also during commissioning and utilisation of a building.

BIM has processes built in for the transfer of data with predetermined levels of detail and deadlines set by the client. This means that the information is delivered when and where it is needed and comes in a useable format. This information can then be stored for future use, during maintenance and repairs for example.