Building Information Modelling FAQs
Q1. What is BIM?
Q3. Is BIM more expensive than traditional construction processes?
Q4. Is BIM only useful on larger projects?
Q5. How does BIM fit in with the RIBA Architectural stages?
Q6. Who owns the Building Information Model and intellectual Property?
If the above questions are not what you are looking for, please Submit your BIM related question at the bottom of this page. We will endeavour to respond within 24 hours, usually much quicker!
Alternatively you can call one of the Cadnet technical support team direct on 0844 324 0051
Q1. What is BIM?
BIM, or Building Information Modelling is a ‘holistic’ approach to design and construction, whereby an intelligent model of the proposed design is created, analysed and is used to drive the production of all quantities, drawing sheets, co-ordination works, etc. from the initial design through to final handover.
Q2. Do I need Revit for BIM?
No. Although Revit is gaining popularity as the industry standard for BIM authoring software, it is not the only piece of software that can do the job.
Q3. Is BIM more expensive than traditional construction processes?
No. BIM is a front-loaded construction process, not a more expensive process. The aim of any BIM project is to eliminate the typical construction problems that occur on site, minimise waste and streamline construction by detailed, intelligent investigation and evaluation during the design phase.
Q4. Is BIM only useful on larger projects?
BIM is a viable process for projects of all sizes. The ability to accurately schedule quantities, ensure design co-ordination and evaluate the project in a three-dimensional environment are welcome additions to any project.
Q5. How does BIM fit in with the RIBA Architectural stages?
The short answer is ‘with difficulty’! Being a front loaded process, BIM almost reverses the more traditional RIBA approach where construction drawings are issued at the last labour intensive stage in the process. With BIM, the drawings are still issued at the end, but because the building and site are accurately modelled during the design process (and because Cadnet have helped you get the detail level correct!) the drawing issue becomes a virtual button press at the end of the process. This makes change easier, smooths the resource requirement curve and reduces drawing errors made because of early snagging and clash detection identification through the BIM modelling process.
Q6. Who owns the Building Information Model and intellectual Property?
This is not easy to answer. There are a number of points to consider;
Ownership and control? – Surely who controls the model owns the model?
Standard of Care – Is anything different when using BIM to traditional delivery methods?
Copyright and IP – The project outcome is the same so should the copyright and IP be any different?
Contractual Frameworks – When will we have a ‘cast iron’ BIM contract in place in the UK?
Insurance – Insurers do not have enough experience of BIM so how can they reasonably take account of the risks?
The truth is BIM is too new here in the UK to give a definitive answer. In the US the AIA suggested that early adopters will define the questions and shape the answers through their experience.