The construction industry isn't just about the project manager but the collaborative efforts of different professionals, including structural engineers, architects, builders, surveyors, and unskilled laborers.
Every professional plays a massive role in the building process by sharing knowledge and expertise. Hence, communication and cooperation are very crucial in any building project.
All the construction team members must understand and support themselves to produce a quality project that will last long.
Interestingly, the introduction of Building Information Modeling (BIM) has improved the unity and cooperation among all stakeholders in the construction industry.
It has also created an effective communication line between builders, architects, and other experts, preventing conflicts that may affect the project's speed and overall outcome.
How is that possible? This article discusses seven ways BIM can improve communication and collaboration in a building project. Here you go…
1. BIM guarantees early digital representation to prevent on-site issues
Building Information Modeling (BIM) provides a digital representation of a project so that everyone involved in the construction process can view it as early as possible.
Having seen the digital version of the project, they will collectively discuss and make the needed changes and alterations before heading to the site.
This will undoubtedly prevent issues and indifference that could happen during the construction stages.
2. BIM helps to detect potential clashes among stakeholders
Clash detection is one of BIM's most impressive features as it reveals potential clashes between stakeholders.
This feature helps you know if plumbing, electrical, or carpentry works will clash due to poor planning.
Clash detection will identify the errors, allowing all stakeholders to change their approach to avoid future delays or rework that could affect the construction speed.
With 3D modeling, the BIM software will create a digital version of the project for everyone to view, detect potential clashes, make the required changes, be on the same page, and eliminate any future conflicts.
3. BIM ensures everyone can study the design individually
BIM provides a shareable digital version of the construction project, meaning everyone can have access to the design at their convenient time.
With BIM technology, the project manager can share the 3D model of a project with each team leader, who will subsequently share it with other members.
This won't only enhance everyone's understanding of the design and tasks but also boost the project's overall quality and cooperation in the long run.
4. BIM guarantees real-time notification of changes made
Impromptu or uninformed changes to building design often lead to on-site conflicts. The affected teams are always at loggerheads with the project contractor or manager for making changes without prior notification.
Settling disputes, reworking, and implementing the new changes will eventually slow the worker's pace and efficiency.
However, that's a thing of the past because BIM technology supports real-time notification. This means everyone will receive notifications as soon as there is a change in the initial or agreed design or plan.
The building, plumbing, and electrical teams will know and see the latest developments. They will all share their thoughts on the latest change and reach a consensus before proceeding with the new template. It will further boost the cooperation and understanding between all stakeholders.
5. BIM promotes equality among stakeholders
BIM provides centralized data management, which allows every member to access the project data and make the necessary corrections.
You can easily visualize the project and edit without any problems because other members will notice the changes.
Though BIM allows everyone to edit the design, the project manager still determines the final decision regarding the overall changes. He might reject the proposed changes if they would affect the initial plan.
6. BIM reduces error and rework rate
Rework is a construction task that the team performs twice or thrice due to errors or omissions at the initial stage.
Rework reduces work pace, consumes more money, and takes more energy and strength. This is why many construction teams often take their time to study the construction plan to avoid errors leading to reworks.
Interestingly, one of the importance of BIM is that it reduces rework due to errors. It features a 4D virtual simulation which allows the construction team to run a virtual test on the design and structure to see if it is compatible with the location.
The virtual simulation makes it easy to test all sections of the project and identify some problems that could occur during the construction stages.
With BIM, the team can collectively detect and correct errors before heading to the site. Hence, it's safe to say that the highly-rated technology encourages togetherness and unity.
7. It improves construction speed
One of BIM's primary purposes is to improve the project construction speed and quality by eliminating errors and issues that could affect the designing and construction stages in the long run.
Hence, you should deploy it for your construction project to enjoy a seamless and speedy construction experience.
As stated earlier, digital representation encourages a quick decision-making process by allowing everyone to contribute and share their thoughts on any changes or steps different from initial plans.
Similarly, BIM helps you create accurate construction schedules, allowing stakeholders to plan and coordinate project activities effectively.
Conclusion
Many professionals in the construction industry now explore Building Information Modeling for effective communication and coordination among the building team.
Take advantage of this powerful tool to avoid issues related to communication, design, and errors.
Also, read our article on the difference between 4D, 5D, and 6D BIM; and their functions before choosing any one for your construction project.
Each of the models has unique functions and features. Therefore, it's important you read more about them to know the most suitable option for you.
Don't know how to use BIM? Then, Contact ELogicTech for help. Our team of experienced professionals will provide reliable BIM service for your project.
We will work closely with you to provide the digital representation of your project and design using the most compatible BIM tool.
Apart from creating the best design, we also offer ketchUp Modeling, Millwork Drawing, Structural Drafting, rebar, and engineering Services.
