This has been stressed as much as possible in my previous article, 7 things to know about building information modelling. BIM is not a software. However, the software plays an integral role in ensuring that the collaborative practices across different fields in the construction industry continue. A level of effectiveness in information exchange and relevant capabilities is the underlying concept of BIM software systems. It is therefore important that these tools allow for interoperability, which is accomplished through the Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) format. Industry Foundation Classes or IFC is an open, internationally standardised data models which gives a digital description of the built environment. This description allows usability across a wide range of software platforms, hardware devices and online interfaces. IFC can define the different components of buildings, project costs, project schedules, manufactured products, abstract models and so much more.
BIM software platforms, therefore, provide interfaces to the end users to export, import and transmit data in IFC format. An example in building SMART; An architect provides the owner with a model of a new facility design, an owner may send that building model to a contractor to request a bid, and a contractor may provide the owner an as-built model with details describing installed equipment and manufacturer information. IFC can also be used as a means of archiving project information during the design, procurement, and construction phases, or as an “as-built” collection of information for long-term preservation and operations purposes.
For there to be BIM workflow in a single project, the different stakeholders must have the capability to support IFC, allowing the exchange of the needed information between each other. There are over 150 BIM software packages available in the market, better highlighted on CAD Addict and buildingSMART. Nonetheless, this a dauntingly large number, which triggers the questions; How does one choose the right software package? Do you consider the software availability? Whether the software is easy to learn? Does it allow for interoperability? Does the software allow for easy data migration (from the current files to the BIM software packages)? Does the software provide end-to-end building management? In a BIM project, effectiveness and efficiency are crucial factors that need to be met through the following
· Functionality: the software package can be used for design, visualisation, documentation, collaboration, 4D/5D/6D modelling, and a Common Data Environment (CDE).
· User interface: the software has an intuitive and friendly user interface that allows for fast learning, especially in cases where education, training and upskilling is necessary.
· Interoperability: the software in use allows for the systems to exchange and make use of each consultant’s information.
· Ease of maintenance: the software is from renowned companies allowing for easy and affordable maintenance and upgrades by experts.
Software by profession
Granted the different disciplines in the built environment, there will be different BIM software packages. The following are software that I have used in the past and are effective as a BIM software package. It is worth noting that these examples are a blank canvas and not a cookie cutter package for all companies. A business evaluation by a BIM consultant needs to be carried out to determine which software is appropriate for your individual practice.
· Architect: Revit Architecture — for model design building, Enscape — a cloud-based visualisation software that allows users to manage 3D model revisions.
· Engineer (Mechanical, Electrical and Structural): Revit MEP and Revit Structural — for services design and structural modelling respectively.
· Quantity Surveyor: Revit (Quantities take off)– for quantities take offs from the models, Navisworks — for quantities take offs, CostX — for cost estimation and generation.
· Facilities manager: COBie (Revit extension) — for post-construction data management in a simple, presentable format that can be easily interpreted by the operations team.
· Project Manager: Synchro, Navisworks — for 4D integration, allowing easy importation from previous scheduling programmes such as MS Project and Primavera. The software further offers clash detection and project optimisation.
· Information manager: BIM 360 — a cloud-based online multi-disciplinary model collaboration platform for real time coordination with a bonus functionality of use on mobile devices. This is an example of a common data environment.
Common Data Environments (CDE)
The common data environment (CDE) is an online cloud-based platform that allows for project information exchange with the project stakeholders and consultants, whilst allowing for real time data changes to the shared information. Simply put, a consultant can open and edit a shared drawing, without requiring the appropriate software pre-installed. This is the key difference between a platform like BIM 360 and one like Dropbox. CDE platforms provide the ultimate environment for maximum coordination, collaboration and remote working in information management and project delivery.
Construction software and remote working
With the construction industry gravitating to innovation and technology, construction software development has significantly increased, catering for even project management mobile applications. Companies like Procore, Oracle and Autodesk are increasingly making it easier to manage projects digitally and remotely. The coronavirus and social distancing have proven that the construction industry could use a lot of tech incorporation, as it has not been spared in these remote working times. The B1M covers how the built sector has been affected here. Following this pandemic, how can we better use software in the future to coordinate, collaborate and integrate project delivery? I’d love to hear your thoughts on this.
