Why 5D BIM matters to contractors

Most undoubtedly understand that digitalization positively impacts the AEC industry, from productivity gains to the speed of project delivery to combating sustainability challenges. While many are grappling with how to concurrently work within the traditional confines of our industry, while simultaneously overhauling their businesses for the already-dawning digital age, they should not simply be thinking about reinventing their business, but fundamentally rethinking the way business is soon to be conducted.

The pandemic and its effects have accelerated digital trends in the industry and prompted many construction firms to adopt digital solutions, with the hope that technology will enhance profitability while fending off competitors. Those who have not joined the race to go digital will find themselves at a disadvantage when competing with more technologically savvy firms. As construction businesses look to keep their projects moving while preparing for a digital transformation, one technology that can have a big impact is 5D BIM.

Traditional methodology vs BIM methodology-based design

Unlike traditional methods, characterized by changes and unforeseen costs both within the design and building phases, BIM methodology facilitates efficient collaboration based on a virtual model between all stakeholders involved from a project’s inception.

As can be seen in the diagram above, when a greater collaborative BIM effort is concentrated at the initial stages of the design phase (typical with an integrated platform approach), it has a positive impact on cost, both in terms of cost awareness and cost reduction.

Preconstruction with 5 dimensions of BIM

5D BIM based preconstruction encourages teamwork and collaboration from the very start of a construction project, transforming the architect’s drawing into a 3D digital model accompanied with time factor (4D) and cost information (5D) that creates a detailed, visual, and dynamic information-infused BIM model.

5D BIM makes construction processes more efficient, facilitating more detailed and thorough planning, so that potential issues can be identified early-on, thus reducing the need for changes and rework. BIM simulations can combine design, materials, partners, and even regulatory guidelines, helping firms create quicker and more accurate estimates while satisfying the expectations and demands of many clients who already recognize the value of the BIM-based design and building philosophy. Not only does it provide a complete visual rendering of a project, but it also provides them with significantly increased security and peace of mind in project planning, costing, and scheduling.

What 5D BIM based pre-construction does for your projects

BIM-based fast and accurate Quantity Takeoff

Quantity surveyors can easily generate automated quantities from 3D models using the predefined rules in the system. The calculations can be displayed in BIM models, simplifying decision-making.

BIM-based thorough and precise estimates

Combining 3D models and data from previous projects helps rapidly create thorough and precise project estimates. Estimates are interconnected with models, BoQ, scheduling and procurement, further enhancing collaboration and data sharing in real-time.

BIM-based scheduling enables better planning for uncertainties

5D simulation helps schedulers to identify potential conflicts and detect construction risks early in the planning process, creating more reliable schedules to avoid costly mistakes in the construction phase. It offers “what-if” scenarios that provide visibility into the impact of any schedule or project changes, enabling better planning and resource allocation.

Visualize your procurement plan with BIM-based procurement

Procurement requirements can be generated directly from the BIM model, from a catalog, or from a cost estimate. Design models, cost information, procurement and construction plans are visualized and evaluated during the planning phase, so that a clear and optimized plan is created before physical construction begins. This not only ensures data accuracy but can result in immense savings in time and labor.

Solid data basis for efficient facility management

With 5D BIM, the entire lifecycle of the building or object is presented in BIM 5D in the preconstruction phase. This eliminates the need for multiple disjointed spreadsheets and lists that many project teams currently rely on. Utilizing 5D BIM throughout the building lifecycle ensures all stakeholders always have access to the information they need, streamlining building maintenance and repairs, and resulting in more efficient facility management.