The use of BIM in the market improving the way we build

One of the latest trends in creating and managing building data during the design, construction and operation phases of a project is Building Information Modeling, better known as BIM. This new technology provides the means for increasing productivity and efficiently designing work through the construction and design process. A recent report published by McGraw-Hill Construction titled "SmartMarket Report on Building Information Modeling: Transforming Design and Construction to Achieve Greater Industry Productivity," summarizes how the use of BIM's 3-D visualization capabilities used by architects, engineers, contractors and owners assists in boosting communication between and among construction professionals. BIM has been shown to facilitate a collaborative environment due to its focus on the sharing of data. BIM users have experienced greater productivity as a result of spending more time on design and less time on documentation. The most significant benefits reported regarding the use of BIM include: * Ease of coordination among various software and project personnel; * Improved communication and collaboration on projects; * Increased control of costs, quality and completion schedules; and * Achievement of a competitive edge when bidding on projects. With BIM, there is enormous potential for the lowering of costs, and improvement in the overall safety, strength and quality of construction projects. Many companies have tracked their return on investment from the use of BIM through measurable reductions in the number of requests for information and field coordination problems. Additionally, the effect of 3-D visualization on communication, and the impact of BIM on successful bidding of projects seems to be leaving its mark with owners. The tremendous success experienced by BIM users thus far is both encouraging and exciting. It demonstrates that a competitive advantage can be levered by the use of BIM. As technological advancements continue and BIM users become more proficient, expect BIM to become the accepted methodology for generating and managing building data. Sheralyn Mar, Esq., is senior associate for Zetlin & De Chiara LLP, New York, N.Y.