HOW CAN U MAKE SURE YOU HAVE THE RIGHT BIM TOOL FOR YOUR PROJECT?

WHAT IS BIM AND BIM TOOLS?

When people define BIM, they are actually discussing various software tools that communicate with each other to make up the parts of the building information model. Building Information Modelling (BIM) can be better seen as a process that is used in the construction sector that allows construction experts to gather information and make a digital representation of all the elements, physical processes and operational features of a facility. 

BIM is an ever-changing methodology and it is built up through processes like co-ordination, collaborative work, interoperability, and circular workflows.

Construction project are made up of several steps that later on are combined to form the complete scope of the project. Selecting a good tool for a particular job in construction can be difficult that’s why we have made list of the best construction tools for particular construction tasks, just to make things easier for everyone.

POPULAR MULTIPURPOSE BIM SOFTWARES:

If properly utilized BIM model helps reduce wastage in projects, driven down costs and rectify errors beforehand so that they don’t occur in construction phase. BIM tools for architectural design are not limited to just architects but they are also used by engineers and designers to help with key tasks like planning, design, construction, and management of facilities. Some of the best tools for architectural designs are:

1.      REVIT (AUTODESK)

Revit is one of the most popular modelling software’s for MEP engineering, structure and architectural design along with construction assistance. This software can be used to help many professional in constructions.

Notable Features: Detailed Visualizations, Immersive Models, Parametric Models with Error Free Design. Multi-Disciplinary Tools, Interoperable Platform, Easy Documentation.

2.      ARCHICAD (GRAPHISOFT)

ArchiCAD is a 3D modelling tool with heavy focus on design element, it is mostly used by architects and urban planners to enhance building design and smooth out the workflow process. It is one of the oldest BIM tools and it is capable of complete 2D and 3D modelling.

Notable features: Algorithmic design that avoids gaps in early design stage. Open workflow for easier access of project members, easier interoperability.

3.      AECOsim Building Designer (Bentley) 

This BIM tool is a design tool that also has a system that can help designers to help analyse and construct infrastructure projects, it also has the capability to aid in operations of such facilities. According to design and magnitude the tool can be used to model not just architectural and structural but also mechanical and electrical elements of any building.

Notable features: Effective and multi team collaboration, easily to understand design environment, streamlined workflow, easy documentation with information pulled directly from intelligent design models.

After application of modelling tools various other tools are applied to projects to derive more detailed information about project elements. Many of the tools mentioned below are designed to carry out a specific task and add that information to the BIM model. These are tools that add the critical information on which key project decisions are taken.

BIM CONFLICT/CLASH DETECTION SOFTWARE:

BIM tools that detect conflict zones or elements provide an automated system that identifies and resolves conflicts through visual representation which is often seen in 2D based designs. Using BIM many conflicts/clashes are rectified in virtual design and thus it is way easier for engineers and designers to combine MEP networks and architectural and structural elements without worrying about clashes.

1. Solibri Model Checker
2. Tekla BIMSight (Trimble)
3. MEP Modeller (Graphisoft)

BIM SOFTWARE FOR PLANNING & CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT:

These tools help projects with constructability issues such as costing, financial management, schedules, coordination and stakeholder management. Many of these tools mentioned below provide avenues for contractors and engineers to combine 3D models navigate around them in real time and review model with comments and improvements for better team coordination and communication.

1.      Navisworks (Autodesk)

2.      Navigator (Bentley)

3.      BIM 360 Glue (Autodesk)

BIM SOFTWARE FOR MEASUREMENTS AND COST CONTROL:

Here is a list of cost estimation tools which can also aid in construction tasks such as design management and scheduling of construction activities. These platforms allow for better integration of construction activities as they allow better communication of task sequence to project team members. They can provide a space for project managers to design better workflows for the project. This aids in enhancing key aspects such as design, cost and time of a project or facility.

1. Arquimedes (CYPE)
2. Vico 5D BIM Estimating (Trimble)
3. COSTX (Exactal)

BIM SOFTWARE FOR TESTING AND CALCULATIONS OF STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS:

These software tool deal with calculation of different loads and stress test on buildings to check for any design flaws before construction. These programs have special features that allow testing and design of construction elements based on different materials and grades.

1. Tekla Structures (Trimble)
2. Revit Structure (Autodesk)
3. SAP2000 (CSI)

BIM SOFTWARE TO CHECK ENERGY EFFICIENCY:

In current construction practices environmental studies are crucial for project success. Conducting analysis on design model for critical factors that could potentially improve energy profile of facility is key. Many firms are looking towards these software-based building energy estimates for better and more efficient facility management.

1. Green Building Studio (Autodesk)
2. EnergyPlus (CYPE)
3. AecoSIM Energy Simulator (Bentley)

BIM SOFTWARE FOR FACILITY MANAGEMENT:

For facility managers, clients and owners these tools provide vast information and enhance building maintenance and operational capacity. These tools provide insight for faster and better building protocols that make building more efficient throughout their lifecycle.

1. CenterStone CAFM (Trimble)
2. ArchiFM (Graphisoft)
3. ARCHIBUS