What is BIM

BIM DEFINITIONS

There is no universally accepted definition of BIM. In the construction industry, there are various definitions of BIM from different organizations and institutes. The reason there is no accepted definition is that BIM is ever-evolving; however, there have been some useful definitions, some of which are provided here.

"Building Information Modelling (BIM) is a set of technologies, processes, and policies enabling multiple stakeholders to collaboratively design, construct and operate a Facility in virtual space. As a term, BIM has grown tremendously over the years and is now the 'current expression of digital innovation' across the construction industry".

ΒΙΜ DICTIONARY

"Building Information Modelling is a digital representation of physical and functional characteristics of a facility creating a shared knowledge resource for information about it forming a reliable basis for decisions during its life cycle, from earliest conception to demolition. "

RIBA

"Building Information Modelling (BIM) is an intelligent 3D model-based process that gives architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) professionals the insight and tools to more efficiently plan, design, construct, and manage buildings and infrastructure".

AUTODESK

People

Leadership, collaboration, owners engagement, skills and responsibilties

Process

Standards, processes, lean design management, information management

Technology

BIM modelling, simulation, interoperability,

integration

Policy

Standards, project guidelines, legal and contractual, procurement,

ISO 19650 & BIM

Building Information Modelling, BIM is transforming the construction industry and is changing the AEC workflows, methods, processes, and tools. The BIM process is supported by the international standard ISO 19650 and a series of guidelines and standards that provide the means to enable digital construction to maximize efficiency and deliver better projects.

The ISO 19650 documents are based on the principles and the content of a currently redrawn PAS or a British standard, as part of the BIM Level UK suite of documents. (BS 1192: 2007 + A2: 2016, PAS 1192-2: 2013, PAS 1192-3: 2014 PAS 1192-4: 2014 PAS 1192-5: 2015 PAS 1192-6: 2018 BS 1192-4: 2014 BS 8536-1: 2015 BS 8536-2: 2016). The UK BIM standards published by the British Standards Institution, BSI supported the development of the ISO 19650 standards and provide guidance and best practice into BIM implementation. The ISO series documents include activities and tasks, diagrams, and a step-by-step approach towards digital processes that supports the flow of information within the information management cycle (from the Project information model to the Asset information model).

ISO 19650 series is comprised of 4 documents. ISO 19650-1 describes the principles, concepts, and terminology, ISO 19650-2 presents the details of the information management process, ISO 19650-3 focuses on the asset's operational phase, and ISO 19650-5 on the security of information. The ISO 19650 series is also connected to ISO 55000, ISO 21500 (Asset and project management), and ISO 9001 (Organizational management).

Read more about ISO 19650

BIM FOR OWNERS

BIM enhances the role of the owner with the use of standardization processes and control tools. In BIM, owners are informed about the progress of the project at all stages; they have the tools to request and receive information and make informed decisions about the project. BIM standards help the owner evaluate project teams, keep track of the project progress and use project data for facility management.

BIM FOR ARCHITECTS

Using BIM models, architects can effectively communicate with the client through the precision of the 3D visuals. BIM tools allow designers to explore design options and make informed decisions based on data-based insights. Cloud collaboration enables architects and extended team members to work in real-time update models and reduce errors in later construction stages.

BIM FOR STRUCTURAL ENGINEERS

A rich data model allows engineers to address competing design parameters, quickly test the viability and structural integrity of different options early in the design phase, and easily adjust structural models based on design changes. Model-based collaboration improves communication between structural engineers and the extended project team.

BIM FOR MECHANICAL ENGINEERS

MEP designers and detailers can explore the best constructible design of building systems before settling on a decision. They can also take advantage of design calculations to optimize systems and fabrication content to derive optimal layouts. Working in BIM, mechanical engineers and detailers can convert a design intent model into a detailed fabrication model ready for shop drawings, procurement, ductwork manufacture, and installation.