Building Information Modeling
Feb 16, 2011 10:27 AM,
Provided by InfoComm International
The BIM Task Force, formed by the InfoComm board of directors in 2010, has completed a comprehensive document addressing Building Information Modeling (BIM). The report, Building Information Modeling, aims to give the reader a strong understanding of what BIM is and also details what it means to the audiovisual professional both now and in the future.
The intent of this report is to give the InfoComm membership a strong understanding of what BIM is and to also provide a detailed look at what it means to the audiovisual professional both now and in the coming years. The information provided in Building Information Modeling is a summary of industry reports, studies, surveys, and editorials as viewed with an eye toward the audiovisual industry.
The report details current state-of-the-industry information with respect to processes, statistics, software applications, and resources. It provides a detailed look at the benefits and drawbacks of using BIM, how BIM will affect the project delivery process, how to successfully begin implementing BIM, BIM’s business implications, and the near and distant future of what BIM means to the audiovisual industry.
While this document is primarily intended for audiovisual designers and installers, an attempt has been made to introduce and detail the greater BIM picture. The intent is to help the reader understand how the audiovisual professional’s work fits with other portions of the construction industry. The use of BIM is the backbone of new, leaner design and construction methods such as Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) and Virtual Design and Construction (VDC).
The ability that BIM provides to design, construct, and operate a building virtually will prove to be an important instrument to increase productivity while at the same time improve the quality of work. Additionally, BIM will be valuable in developing more sustainable buildings and their related systems. As sustainable design becomes the standard and not the exception, BIM’s ability to capture and manipulate large amounts of data related to the built environment will prove to be an invaluable tool.
Currently, Autodesk Revit is the predominant BIM platform for architects and building owners who are both leading the transition to BIM. But Revit is not the only option. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the California Department of Transportation, and others use Bentley BIM. The U.S. General Services Administration (GSA), owner of the most U.S. buildings, does not endorse any single program, but it promotes interoperability. The American Institute of Architects (AIA) has also issued its own statement promoting interoperability in BIM. Autodesk and Bentley have pledged to become interoperable in the future.
The audiovisual professional has an opportunity, with BIM and ultimately IPD, to add more value to the project team. BIM and IPD are both important revolutions in the construction and building management industries, and firms that can quickly become competent adopters will have an edge on the competition. With increased profitability, reduced professional risk, less waste, less rework, and improved efficiency, audiovisual firms can use BIM to create new revenue streams and add to profitability. BIM will be the main method in which buildings are constructed and managed. It is crucial for audiovisual firms to become early and professional adopters of this technology and embrace the associated cultural change to ensure the growth of our industry. Building Information Modeling is designed to give readers a head start on preparing their organization for the changing face of the design, construction, and facilities management industry.
Download the full report at www.infocomm.org/bim. InfoComm members are encouraged to discuss this document and issues related to BIM by joining the BIM eGroup in the InfoComm Community at community.infocomm.org.
