BIM has been considered an essential resource for AEC professionals because it has digitally transformed some of the construction industry's most important challenges, such as project estimation, quality control issues, scheduling, and so on. Leading countries around the world are adopting BIM, and the government is mandating its use in projects because it is effective at streamlining various construction processes and has increased productivity as a result. Despite the benefits, a few common BIM myths have made people hesitant to use BIM in their projects. Here are some of the common BIM myths.
1. BIM is Just a newer way of 3D modeling
BIM is beyond just creating a visual representation of the physical and functional characteristics of a building. It is one of the most visible and visually appealing features of the building's design, but it is just one of the many functions provided by BIM. Many people believe that BIM only creates three-dimensional designs, but it creates designs that allow all AEC professionals involved in the construction to collaborate. BIM allows the creation of digital datasets containing both graphical and non-graphical information.
2. BIM is costly
Most people are opposed to implementing BIM because they believe it will be costly. There are undoubtedly upfront costs associated with implementing changes in working processes, but these are offset by long-term efficiency and benefits. The efficiency of BIM is dependent on the representation of accurate data and the ability to make data-driven decisions. It is critical to understand that process efficiency reduces overall risk and leads to significant cost savings.
3. BIM impacts productivity
It is a common misconception that BIM takes time to bring efficiency. There is a common misconception that BIM reduces construction productivity. We cannot expect any radical change in the process to produce instant results. However, when given adequate time, planning, and investment resources, BIM pays dividends in the long term. It not only repays the investment but also streamlines numerous processes, resulting in increased efficiency.
4. BIM serves only 'big' projects
Another common misconception is that BIM services are only used for large, complex projects. But this is not correct. Large projects are indeed more complex and time-consuming. However, the problem in each project is typically the same. BIM improves efficiency in calculating design costs and saves time when estimating and evaluating project costs. Regardless of the size of the project, or company, or whether it is a public or private project, BIM benefits everyone.
5. BIM is software
Another reason people are nervous is that they think BIM is just software that needs to be installed. It is essentially a change to the company's operations. The implementation of BIM results in changes in people, processes, and technology. The knowledge-based system facilitates collaboration among all construction stakeholders. BIM is a revolution that alters traditional business practices rather than a piece of software. There are numerous types of software and tools available, but BIM is primarily a collaborative process of communication, analysis, and optimization of the design and construction processes.
6. BIM is simply a fad
BIM is becoming increasingly important in the construction industry. Many of the leading countries have adopted BIM and made it mandatory for all public projects. The global construction industry has recognized the value of BIM and how it has helped coordinate design, eliminate waste, save money, and collaborate. It is incorrect to believe that BIM is a fad. The impact of digital technology in the construction industry is growing. Those who adopt BIM gain a competitive advantage and work more efficiently. BIM is not a fad; rather, it is the natural evolution of the AEC industry. BIM is more than a trend; it is an evolution that is here to stay.
7. BIM is just for design and construction.
Many people think that BIM is only useful in the design and construction phases, but this is not true. All stakeholders associated with the lifecycle benefit from it. BIM takes care of and proves useful throughout the building process. The scope does not end here; it is also useful for retrofits, renovation, refurbishment, and demolition.
Conclusion: Any company must understand these common misconceptions about BIM implementation. It is natural to be hesitant when making changes in the workplace. However, BIM has numerous benefits that outweigh its drawbacks. BIM is proving to be a very beneficial process for all stakeholders involved in the project. It allows all professionals to collaborate by providing a comprehensive view of the entire project.
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