Building Information Modelling (BIM) Tools

This informal CPD article ‘Building Information Modelling (BIM) Tools’, was provided by Pentagon Solutions, a leading technology and consultancy partner in the UK & Ireland for companies who strive to gain efficiencies in their business by digitalisation of their assets and processes.

There's a common misunderstanding about BIM software that people often think that there's a one-size-fits-all solution. However, BIM software tools come in a variety of categories that are tailored to specific uses, project needs, and data requirements. Each BIM tool has a critical role in ensuring that the BIM process is successful. These specialised BIM software tools produce unique data outputs that help optimise all aspects of construction. BIM software tool categories include:

• BIM Authoring Software
• BIM Coordination Software
• BIM Analysis Software
• BIM Documentation Software
• BIM Collaboration Software
• Digital Twin Software

BIM Authoring Software

BIM Authoring Software is the most used BIM tool. This tool is used to create and edit 3D digital models for BIM Projects. This software enables architects, engineers, and other stakeholders to design, coordinate, and embed relative BIM data to different components of a construction project in an interactive and collaborative environment.

Users can utilise this software to create precise 3D models of a building's geometry, resulting in a clearer representation of the construction project which can be used for all phases of the project.

These tools are essential for beginning any BIM project and process, providing the foundation to create and manage the 3D digital representation of a construction project from initial design to post-construction.

BIM Coordination Software

BIM Coordination Software is specifically designed to enhance collaboration and coordination among various disciplines involved in a construction project. Its primary goal is to identify and resolve any potential conflicts or clashes that may arise between different building components or systems by thoroughly analysing and visualising the BIM models. This process ensures that all the structural, architectural, and mechanical, electrical, & plumbing (MEP) systems seamlessly integrate and function together without any issues.

These tools are necessary when considering streamlining and coordination processes, improving communication among project stakeholders, and ultimately contributing to the successful delivery of construction projects with fewer conflicts and issues. Typically, coordination software also provides additional data output for data search sets, quantification, and scheduling purposes.

BIM Analysis Software

BIM Analysis Software is used for simulating and analysing various aspects of a building's performance. This includes structural analysis, energy analysis, lighting simulation, and other performance evaluations. By leveraging data from the BIM models, these tools enable designers and engineers to assess the building's behaviour under different conditions and optimise its performance.

These tools contribute to informed decision-making during the design process, leading to optimised building performance and increased efficiency at the build, construct, and operation phases.

BIM Documentation Software

BIM Documentation Software assists in generating and managing project delivery documentation for the BIM project. It streamlines the process for submittals, RFIs, and specification documents based on the information embedded in the BIM project. This helps in maintaining consistency between site and office engineers which reduces errors and improves efficiency through transparency and locating vital documentation.

By integrating the documentation process with the BIM model, these tools contribute to a more efficient and accurate project delivery.

BIM Collaboration Software

BIM Collaboration Software facilitates communication and collaboration among project team members, who may be geographically dispersed. It provides a platform for sharing, reviewing, and commenting on BIM models in real-time. This enhances communication and coordination among stakeholders, leading to more efficient decision-making and project delivery.

Digital Twin Software 

A digital twin is a virtual copy of a physical object, system, or process that is created and updated in real-time. It reflects the changes and conditions of its real-world equivalent, providing a digital representation of physical assets. Software to implement and maintain a Digital Twin has become increasingly important in various industries because it offers numerous benefits in terms of monitoring, analysis, and optimisation. The Internet of Things (IoT) plays a significant role in this by providing an opportunity to establish links between the software and equipment. By utilising these elements, adjustments can be made to the facility or assets before any significant failure occurs. This helps prevent further issues and enables the facility to run efficiently.

The adoption of Digital Twins is growing as industries recognise its potential to improve efficiency, optimise performance, and enable data-driven decision-making throughout the lifecycle of physical assets.

Conclusion

BIM tools are designed to simplify the construction process, enhance collaboration, and improve the efficiency and precision of building projects. The BIM software landscape is diverse and customised to meet the specific needs and data requirements of each project.

There is no one-size-fits-all solution since there are distinct categories of BIM tools, each playing a crucial role in ensuring the success of the BIM process. These tools work together seamlessly to streamline construction processes, promote collaboration, and enhance the overall efficiency and accuracy of building projects.

We hope this article was helpful. For more information from Pentagon Solutions, please visit their CPD Member Directory page. Alternatively, you can go to CPD Industry Hubs for more articles, courses and events relevant to your Continuing Professional Development requirements.