What is BIM, this new tool that is revolutionizing the construction sector?

November 8, 2024
11 min
Construction employees consult their BIM software

Today, we are dealing with a subject that has been transforming our industry in recent years: BIM, or Building Information Modeling. This technology is redefining how we design, build, and manage our projects.

Much more than a simple 3D modeling tool, it is a intelligent process based on models which offers Construction and Civil Engineering professionals the tools they need to plan, design and build more efficiently. Benefiting from strong growth, this technology meets the challenges we are currently facing in Quebec: improving productivity, reducing costs, optimizing deadlines and strengthening collaboration between the various actors in a project.

How does BIM work?

At the heart of BIM is the collaborative 3D modeling, which makes it possible to create a detailed and intelligent digital representation of the building. Each element of the model (whether walls, doors, mechanical systems, or structures) is enriched with data on its physical and functional properties. This approach allows several specialists, such as architects, engineers and contractors, to work simultaneously on the same models. La real-time collaboration reduces the risk of errors and delays from the implementation of the project until its completion. This continuous integration of data allows better management of installations, more efficient maintenance and better evaluation of costs.

The BIM model thus becomes a real”digital twin” of the physical building, offering a complete and dynamic database that facilitates the management of spaces, energy optimization and the planning of future renovations. This ability to exchange and share data is made possible thanks to standardized file formats, such asIFC (Industry Foundation Classes), which ensure compatibility between different BIM software. However, it is important to note that the standardization of exchange formats is not yet optimal and that the control of interoperability remains a major challenge for the success of BIM projects.

What are the advantages of BIM? Why adopt it?

For team and group work, the BIM solution proves to be very interesting, especially for Civil Engineering and its special projects.

1. Improving coordination and communication

BIM is radically transforming coordination and communication within construction projects. By offering a centralized and collaborative platform, it allows each stakeholder to intervene throughout the project, on a unique and shared model. This approach makes it easier to detect potential conflicts early, reducing costly mistakes on the construction site. This strengthened collaboration and improved communication result in smoother and more efficient project execution.

2. Reduction in errors and costs

The use of BIM plays a crucial role in reducing errors and, therefore, the costs associated with construction projects. The “clash detection” functionalities make it possible to identify and resolve conflicts between different elements of the building even before construction begins, thus avoiding costly modifications during construction. In addition, BIM allows a more accurate estimation of the quantities of materials required, optimizing purchases and reducing waste. These savings, combined with better resource management and reduced delays, can have a significant impact on the overall profitability of projects.

3. Optimizing project planning and management

BIM is revolutionizing the planning and management of construction projects by offering a clear and up-to-date overview of the progress of the construction siter. This increased visibility allows better allocation of resources and more precise planning of the various phases of the project. BIM also facilitates the simulation of various construction scenarios, thus making it possible to optimize work sequences and reduce deadlines. This ability to anticipate and resolve problems before they occur on the job site contributes greatly to the overall effectiveness of the project.

4. Facilitating maintenance and management of facilities

The usefulness of BIM extends well beyond the construction phase, playing a crucial role in the operation and maintenance of the building. Thanks to its comprehensive database, it facilitates preventive maintenance, the space management And theenergy optimization of the building. By providing easy and centralized access to all relevant building information, BIM significantly improves the efficiency of facility management throughout the life cycle of the structure, thus reducing long-term operating costs.

What are the challenges when choosing to adopt BIM?

An initial investment

The adoption of BIM represents a significant initial investment. It includes the acquisition of specialized BIM software, and sometimes high-performance computers capable of managing complex 3D models. In addition, the staff training is necessary, and can be costly both in terms of time and money. Employees not only need to learn how to use new software, but also to adopt a new approach to work. While these costs may seem high, especially for small and medium-sized businesses, it's important to think of them as a long term investment. The productivity gains, the reduction of errors and the improvement of the quality of projects allowed by BIM compensate for the initial investment, strengthening the competitiveness of companies that take the plunge.

A need for changes in work practices

This paradigm shift brought about by the adoption of BIM, from a silo approach to integrated collaboration, may encounter resistance from some professionals accustomed to conventional methods. It requires a redefinition of roles and responsibilities, as well as an adaptation of internal processes. Businesses need to implement effective change management, clearly explaining the benefits of BIM and involving employees in the transformation process. Despite these challenges, the transition to BIM offers the opportunity to streamline processes, improve the quality of projects and increase competitiveness businesses in a sector in full digital evolution.

On the way to new skills

The adoption of BIM leads to a significant evolution of the skills required. Professionals must now master advanced digital tools and develop new skills, in addition to their traditional technical skills. This digital transition affects all levels, from construction site workers to project managers, and opens the way to new jobs such as BIM managers. While this evolution offers opportunities for development, it can also create a gap between skilled BIM workers and those who have not yet acquired these skills. This poses challenges in terms of recruitment and professional training, requiring adaptation to meet new market needs.

Other digital innovations in construction

In addition to BIM,other digital innovations are revolutionizing the construction sector, bringing significant improvements in terms of planning, monitoring and communication. Les project management software, such as Procore, PlanGrid and Civalgo, allow precise planning and rigorous monitoring of construction sites, offering advanced functionalities for the management of schedules, budgets and resources.

These online tools also make it easy to generate detailed reports and visualize the progress of work in real time. These technologies make it easier to inspect sites, monitor work progress, and detect potential problems, thus contributing to more effective and proactive management of special projects. Together, these digital innovations complement BIM and are transforming the way projects are planned, delivered, and managed in Canada, offering productivity, quality and safety gains.

What’s a rich text element?

The rich text element allows you to create and format headings, paragraphs, blockquotes, images, and video all in one place instead of having to add and format them individually. Just double-click and easily create content.

Static and dynamic content editing

bold elementsbe used with static or dynamic content. For static content, just drop it into any page and begin editing. For dynamic content, add a rich text field to any collection and then connect a rich text element to that field in the settings panel. Voila!

How to customize formatting for each rich text

Headings, paragraphs, blockquotes, figures, images, and figure captions can all be styled after a class is added to the rich text element using the "When inside of" nested selector system.

tyhrrthtrhrth

  • fefefefefee
Business
About
Careers
Subscribe to our newsletter!
Civalgo © 2024