How to Improve Operational Efficiency in Construction with BIM Modeling

BIM modeling is a hot topic in construction, analysts and forecasters are betting on how it will shape the industry. One of the more significant areas where BIM can impact construction is in operational efficiency. Since BIM modeling can predict and showcase many possibilities and potential issues while generating loads of valuable information, it can cut back on the amount of time needed for significant operational projects. BIM modeling is improving operational efficiency in construction businesses that use it, and here are some of the areas they claim it’s helped.

Planning Stage

The design phase and planning phase of construction is one of the common stage designers, general contractors and contractors use BIM modeling. Designers and such use BIM to visualize and plan the project out during the planning phase. They use BIM modeling to see how the building or project will fit in the designated space. BIM models are databases of real information, designers and project managers know how the space will function. Before companies would have to rent out a warehouse or another large space and build a cardboard city. That way they could see how users would operate in that building. But now they can run simulations to see how people would function in it.

Cost Estimation

Cost estimation is a long process through current methods. But done incorrectly can cost a company their bid. BIM works as not just the 3D representation of the building, but it is also a database of parts. Estimators can use the model, which contains very accurate estimates of the number of nuts, bolts, beams, and more. That way estimators can easily see the number of parts and pieces needed for the project. Some BIM modeling software can even keep a record of what a specific part costs. Thereby it helps total up the estimate once the model is completed. BIM modeling offers ease and efficiency for cost estimation.

Coordination and Clash

Project managers can use BIM modeling to ensure that specific parts of the project will work. For example, they can check to ensure there is enough room between the edge of the project and the edge of the lot. There are many questions and issues with a design that can be quickly clarified. By checking a BIM model or running a simulation designers can see what works. It’s easier to see and sometimes can even detect it there will be issues with the plan in its current state. It’s easier to see any errors and avoid last-minute changes that drive up overall project costs. By reducing the amount of rework a project will need to finish a project, a project manager increases overall operational efficiency.

Improving Documentation

With the coordination and clash overview, and planning overview that BIM modeling provides, a project manager can also improve their documentation. The designers and project managers can work together since design and documentation are concurrently completed with BIM modeling. This shortens the time that project managers, estimators, and designers must spend on preparing documentation which shortens the planning phase.
BIM modeling also improves the quality of documentation. Since it provides more accurate estimates and a more accurate count of what needs to happen, it’s easier to have more accurate and higher quality documentation.

Improve Scheduling

The improvement in documentation and the reduction in time to create the documentation can improve scheduling. Project managers have access to the model, a timeline using current variables on how long it should take to build, and sometimes even a model that shows off the timeline. This can be used to provide a better schedule of events and plan out who needs to be on site better. Project managers can use BIM modeling and their experience to provide more accurate schedules for projects. Having a better schedule will improve operational efficiency within construction because there will be less non-productive work, allowing for more billable hours.

Conclusion

There are a lot of benefits to BIM modeling especially when it comes to operational efficiency. The overall improvements in scheduling and documentation can cut back on the number of non-productive hours. The increase in efficiency especially when it comes to projects can help construction companies increase their overall business since they will have more time. It also improves the total project construction since project managers, designers, and others can quickly and easily determine the project’s feasibility. They will be able to mark up areas that can cause rework or schedule delays. Which prevents people finding out once in the field. Since BIM models are a database of information, the amount of time that estimators need for one bid is reduced. And it frees them up to look for more work. BIM modeling can improve operational efficiency in construction which is something the construction industry is ready for.