280 Section 2 Architectural Planning
• Collaboration. BIM helps streamline
coordination with different disciplines
involved in the design process. By referring
to a 3D model prepared by an architect, for
example, a structural engineer can model
the necessary structural elements. The
same process can be used by mechanical,
electrical, and plumbing engineers, as
discussed later in this chapter. This process
helps foster communication and cooperation
between different engineers. It also helps
reduce design errors and rework.
• Marketing. A fi rm using BIM can promote
itself as a provider of BIM services. See
Figure 12-5. The fi rm can leverage BIM to
attract new business by educating clients on
the benefi ts of BIM processes. Additionally,
BIM can be used to earn repeat business
from clients who “buy in” and decide to
use it for future projects.
The decision to adopt BIM also involves
challenges and risks. It is very likely that a fi rm
will experience growing pains during imple-
mentation. Adopting BIM requires re-thinking
of traditional offi ce practices and can require
signifi cant effort to learn new skills and delivery
Regardless of whether a fi rm is involved in
commercial or residential architecture, BIM offers
a number of advantages to consider. Some of the
primary advantages are described below.
• Productivity. After implementation has
been accomplished, a fi rm has the potential
to produce work that is more accurate and
easier to manage. All of the drawing docu-
mentation associated with a BIM model is
stored in a single fi le. Editing a BIM model
updates all associated geometry and views
simultaneously. This is much more effi cient
than editing multiple drawing fi les and
updating printed drawings individually.
• Visualization. The ability to view a
structure in three dimensions offers a
powerful design tool. Displaying plan
views and 3D views on screen helps in
visualizing the design and verifying that
it is accurate. In addition, renderings and
animations of 3D models are usually much
easier for clients to visualize than 2D draw-
ings. See Figure 12-4. Model renderings, as
well as the model itself, can be shared with
clients early in the design process to obtain
feedback.
Image courtesy of Archaus Architects Limited
Figure 12-4. Renderings of BIM models are effective tools in communicating the design to clients. The interior
of this apartment features a gas fireplace and a spectacular bayside view.
Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.