5 Misconceptions about Construction Software you must avoid

BIM is the acronym for Building Information Modelling. It is a single, cloud-based platform allowing all members of construction teams to work collaboratively with 3D models. Architects, engineers and builders can contribute plans and documents throughout the life cycle of a project, which includes planning, designing, building and operation.

Autodesk.com has outlined several evidence-based benefits of BIM:

• Reduces errors by using precise measurements.
• Allows tradespeople to adapt to new project requirements and expectations.
• Saves money by identifying errors, which reduces rework.
• Estimating and budgeting calculations are easier, as well as management of overall financial information.
• Collaboration amongst team members improves project outcomes.

Although the benefits of BIM are well documented, misconceptions about it deter some construction firms from seeking construction software. If you are considering switching to BIM, learn the truth behind five common myths so you can make an informed decision.

1. BIM Is For Big Construction Firms Completing Big Projects

BIM can benefit any company or project regardless of size. Although larger firms and projects tend to rely on BIM, smaller companies have similar needs and can use the software to improve the quality of labour and productivity on the job. For example, smaller building plans can still use BIM to calculate budgets and estimates. Team members can manage their workflow more efficiently by easily revising their documents on BIM’s cloud-based data storage.

2. BIM Is Too Time-Consuming and Complicated To Implement

BIM does not exhaust time resources for construction jobs. BIM is easy to learn, improves workflow and increases productivity. Anastasios Koutsogiannis, a guest blogger on Excelize.com, states that BIM does require some initial investment of time and money. He also says, however, no recent data indicate that the use of BIM extends the time needed to complete projects. In fact, studies show an increase of 20-25 % in project efficiency.

3. BIM Is Only Useful for 3D Modeling

Although 3D modeling is the key player in construction software, its capabilities benefit all project members. Collaboration on 3D models allows easy exchange of graphical and non-graphical information amongst architects, engineers and builders. Architect student Souktik Bhattacherjee from Re-ThinkingtheFuture.com highlights a case example with successful BIM collaboration on 3D models that reduced the total project completion time to 34 months.

4. BIM Requires Detailed and Extensive Information

When given as much data as possible, BIM can achieve better results for construction projects. Companies shouldn’t be daunted by the data load, however. The amount of information needed can be scaled according to the Level of Development or LOD. For example, if you are only in concept development, you can use LOD 100 modelling, which requires only the minimum number of measurements needed for that stage in the project. When the job progresses to construction, companies can then add LOD 400 to their BIM system, which requires the wide-ranging data collected since the beginning of development.

5. BIM Is Too Expensive and Reduces Productivity

Even though you may experience a slight productivity loss during the switch to a BIM system, experts say you can recoup your initial costs and labour in future job assignments. Actually, productivity increases as workers become more adept at using the BIM system. Tasks are completed faster because of precise measurements, remote meeting options, and overall ease of communication amongst all colleagues.

Conclusion

As construction technology evolves, more modelling software mandates are established globally. This may be another incentive to make the switch to BIM. Experts advise managers to research the advantages and learn about programme options they may prefer. If you understand your current and future needs and seek guidance from a BIM platform provider, you can choose a software system that will enhance your construction business.