Building information modeling (BIM) is a managed approach to the collection, creation, collation and exchange of shared intelligent and structured data and information across a project. Its use is growing exponentially across the spectrum and governments are adapting BIM standards into their management systems.
Many projects have now successfully implemented BIM with significant benefits, including increased design quality, improved field productivity, cost predictability, reduced conflicts and changes, and reduced construction cost and duration to name a few.
One of the areas where BIM is practiced customarily is underground railway networks. Building information modelling, or BIM, is introducing a transformational change to how infrastructure projects are delivered.
The time and cost saving elements of BIM are well-documented. Whether it is the public, the client, the contractor, suppliers to the project, delivery partners or operations staff, BIM enables everyone to visualize the outcomes far better than the traditional 2D drawings.
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BIM provides clear communication
One of the challenges in AEC industry is the trouble in communicating effectively with all parties involved in the project.
This is where BIM comes into play. The BIM model can be used to demonstrate how the design will work with greater clarity than a 2D drawing. Whoever the end-user may be (the client, contractor, public consultations), it enables us to illustrate what the scheme would look like from a variety of different angles. As a result it removes much of the ambiguity associated with complex projects. The model enables people to visualize the size and shape of the scheme, access to it and how it will work.
BIM provides better management
BIM encompasses all of the information regarding construction and dimensions thus becoming a single source of information management. This will help in managing multidisciplinary challenges from clients, stakeholders, contractors and public.
The ability to visualize the project in its entirety via a single 3D model, as well as access other intangible data incorporated into the model via BIM, radically improves coordination between the distinct parties to its development. This in turn avoids potential clashes between the various elements of the project.
The key benefits of this modelling approach are as follows:
– Reduction of risks from greater visibility into design and construction interfaces, and activity
– Improved safety through increased construction awareness from easy review of complex details or processes on site
– Reduced errors from using a single source approach to data management, e.g. ensuring only the most appropriate version of models, drawings, and documentation is used
– Improved collaboration through linked data sets and integrated 3D models that create a ‘virtual’ world before the physical structure is constructed, allowing design and construction refinement
– Reduced information loss between project phases, ensuring the capture and hand-over of full asset information into the Operations and Maintenance phases
– Improved project delivery leveraging technology advances that include data interoperability and mobility
About the Author:
Anil Narendran Pillai – (Vice President – Geomatics @ SBL)
Mr. Pillai heads the GSS (Geospatial Services) domain at SBL (www.sblcorp.com). He has worked in the digital mapping, remote sensing, and GIS industries for over 23 years. He has 23+ years experience managing and coordinating GIS projects and 12 years senior management experience. He has extensive experience in all aspects of aerial and satellite imaging technology and applications. He has utilized remotely sensed satellite and airborne imagery for a variety of environmental applications including site location analysis, forestry, telecommunications and utility corridor mapping. He has a strong background in management of GIS and Photogrammetry imaging projects to support Government and private industry needs.
His Passion lies in Need Analysis and Documentation, Topographical Mapping (ArcGIS), Spatial Data Management, Integrity and Security, GIS Data transformations and projections from multiple sources, Image Processing Software user testing and documentation, Project Coordination and Technical Support, Inter-agency communication and support, 3D Data Generation and Management, Project Management, Digital Photogrammetry, Satellite Image Processing, Pre-Sales Presentations.
