Although still in its infancy in Canada, Building Information Modelling (BIM) could revolutionize the way in which buildings are designed and built, architects were told recently.
Technology
Although still in its infancy in Canada, Building Information Modelling (BIM) could revolutionize the way in which buildings are designed and built, architects were told recently.
“A lot of people see BIM as the next paradigm shift,” said Mark Cichy, a principal in the design studio Mark Cichy & associates and an adjunct professor at the University of Waterloo.
A building information model is a repository for digital, three-dimensional data.
“BIM is different from computer-aided design and drafting,” Cichy told a standing-room-only seminar at Construct Canada. “BIM does more. It’s basically one massive data base, a catalogue of information holding everything there is to know about your project.”
Cichy, who has a master’s degree in architecture from Waterloo, has taught computer modeling courses at the university as well as digital design workshops at post-secondary institutions outside Canada.
In what he called “a quick-start primer,” Cichy said BIM promises to be “the ultimate, architectural database.
“If used wisely, it can be an incredibly powerful construction tool.”
But this technology also requires “intense co-ordination” between members of the design team, said Cichy, who also is employed at a Toronto architectural firm.
Cichy, who said BIM is still “a relatively new topic” for architects, engineers and construction managers, said implementation has “serious implications” for design firms, among others.
These range from converting existing computing infrastructure to identifying candidates for BIM software training.
Cichy outlined a five-step program for taking the plunge into the world of BIM:
•Target a medium-sized project. Don’t even think of implementing BIM unless you’re in the early stages of design.
•Pick appropriate staff. You want enthusiastic, keen learners with comprehensive knowledge of the construction process. Moderate to advanced computing skills will do.
•Pick a top-notch training facility. Look for a firm with a history of successful implementation; call its clients.
•Spend money on decent hardware, office millwork and a powerful server.
•Never underestimate the power of enthusiasm.
“A motivated BIM user will dredge through any obstacle,” Cichy said.
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