JRS Architect, P.C. joins the building information modeling revolution

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a transformational technology that uses real-time, three-dimensional modeling software to construct a building virtually before it is built actually. Similar to the change that's occurred in the broadcast industry, BIM represents the move from analog to digital design and construction. Computer Aided Design (CAD) replaced hand drawing but did not change the process or the way information was presented. BIM is "High Definition" design that integrates and displays every aspect of a building. As a simulation of architecture, the information contained in the model is "intelligent." A door is a digital object that's "aware" of its unique characteristics as well as its spatial and temporal relationships with other objects. This and any other building component can be viewed, analyzed, and manipulated until the perfect design solution is found. The Beginning JRS began its evolution to BIM in 2006 by adopting Revit Architecture software as the key platform supporting its project delivery approach. JRS designers started exploring Revit by creating study models for portions of actual projects then transferring these to AutoCAD for the usual way of producing construction documents. Results from these early trial runs included the elimination of many repetitive tasks, the ability to quickly make changes to major design elements, and the easy coordination of documents. Encouraged with these findings JRS committed to a formal Revit/BIM training in 2008. The week-long session, conducted by a technical education company, was attended by professional staff from the three JRS offices and resulted in the certification of all participants. JRS delivered its first complete project utilizing BIM in 2008. The requirement was an interior renovation for a financial industry client and was handled from schematics and construction documents through to the actual construction with BIM methodology. The project was an unqualified success and JRS has recently commenced its second BIM assignment with another client that will involve the roll out of many new locations. The Benefits of BIM As one of a relative handful of architectural firms offering clients the choice of BIM, JRS recognizes the need to educate building owners, tenants, and the public in general to the realistic benefits made possible with this technology: Greater Client Involvement in Decision Making - It's often difficult for non-technical clients to visualize and interpret 2-D drawings. A 3-D view lets an owner take a virtual tour of a building with 360-degree rotating views; this in turn clarifies design intent and allows for informed on-the-fly changes. Catching Costly Errors Before Construction - Traditionally, construction document coordination has been a painstaking process of comparing several 2-D views of the project to make sure that they represented it consistently and to make sure that the elements of the building didn't conflict with each other. Mistakes in design are easy to make and difficult to correct later on. These can be duplicated items such as beams and columns in the same space, ductwork running into structural members, or errors in floor planning. At its basic level BIM will automatically locate and report any mistakes made during the modeling process. Higher Quality, Data Rich Design - BIM allows for more complexity in design. Unlike 2-D drawings the optimized BIM version increases the quality of design which also includes designing for budget, energy efficiency, and maintenance considerations. BIM versions can contain detailed object information including model, serial numbers, warranties, price points, delivery schedules and more. BIM for Green Design - As adoption of sustainable design standards continues to grow BIM will facilitate the streamlining of building-performance simulations especially with regard to energy analysis. With BIM the virtual building can be studied for weather and usage patterns, heating and cooling loads, and general energy consumption. For clients looking to incorporate some level of sustainability in their projects, BIM will make this an approachable, cost effective reality. Enhanced Collaboration - From the conceptual phase to construction documents and schedules, BIM technology gives architects, interior designers, engineers, contractors and clients a clear running vision of their projects. Information is up-to-date and accessible to all the teams in an integrated digital framework. Progress can be monitored without having to travel to the actual site. These are just a few of the benefits being realized now with BIM, and since the technology is still being shaped, further streamlining and optimizing of the building process can be anticipated. Robert Morrisey, AIA, is vice president of JRS Architect, P.C., New York, N.Y.