Building Information ModelLCDG has been 'cutting over' to the new BIM (Building Information Model) Revit software, replacing AutoCAD. BIM is "a model-based technology linked with a database of project information". The intense flurry of design and construction in the first 7-8 years of this decade hastened the use of 3-D drawing software such as AutoDesk’s Revit. While architects and engineers are cutting over to 3-D models, contractors have been slow to embrace this powerful database and facility managers even slower. Common excuses are cost, training and not having enough time. Now, most of us have time. And the economies of using BIM databases yield attractive returns on investment. Government agencies such as U.S. GSA require the delivery of spatial program information from BIM for major projects. Architects quickly discovered the economies of BIM. The AIA has developed an agreement structure so the building information model and the intellectual property it represents flows naturally from architect, to builder, to owner. The National Institute of Building Sciences has created standards for a common model for describing facility information. Contractors using BIM can minimize the duplication of construction drawings when preparing shop drawings, reducing the chance of error. The models can also improve estimating, scheduling and coordinating. Facility Management Opportunities – Capitalizing on a common database from design, through construction and as-builts, facility managers can reap huge advantages in accuracy and time savings. Applications include management of space, furniture and equipment, emergencies and maintenance.
BIM can be utilized to bridge the information loss associated with handing a project from design team, to construction team and to building owner/operator, by allowing each group to add to and reference back to all information acquired during their period of contribution the BIM model.
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