Expert says BIM benefit not a 'monochrome measure'

Expert says BIM benefit not a 'monochrome measure'

BIM offers varied benefits to contractors, an expert said. [Representational image] 

by Neha Bhatia on Feb 10, 2016 

An industry expert has warned against the perils of misinformation resulted by construction schedules progressing without the use of building information modelling (BIM) systems. 

Stephan Jones, segment manager at Trimble MEP, said standard co-ordination processes, typically those excluding BIM jobs, can lead to a lack of information coordination. 

"Standard coordination continues to be about checking everything with everything and, rather than being done progressively and frequently, it is effectively only carried out at specific key stage waypoints," Jones told Construction Week.

"This results in many false positives, a huge results-set, and little enthusiasm or measureable value.

"Information becomes more consistent by applying BIM standards," Jones continued.

Jones said the adoption of coordinated tools such as BIM in the Middle East and elsewhere is driven by contractual obligations, adding their deployment contributes to problem-solving and contract clarity. 

"Coordination erodes the ability to claim variations, as these become apparent earlier in the design process when the impact of putting them right is lesser than during the installation phases of a project," he continued.

"The value of coordination for a contractor or sub-contractor is therefore not a simple or monochrome measure, and may be perceived as benefitting only one side of the equation." 

GCC governments are taking steps to improve the uptake of BIM in their local construction industries. 

Earlier this month, the Bahrain Society of Engineers (BSE) organised a seminar aimed at improving the knowledge of BIM in the Kingdom.

Jointly hosted by Mercury MENA, an engineering services provider, the Digital Construction – Building with BIM conference was attended by BSE’s members, as well as construction and property development professionals from around the country.

Remarking on the decision to host the seminar, Masoud Ebrahim A-Hermi, president of BSE said: "BSE pursues the enhancement of local standards in engineering practice, which includes the use of BIM technology in architectural and engineering firms.

“Through this forum we would like to generate increased awareness towards BIM and promote its uses for the end benefit of construction managers, architects, engineers, and facility management personnel."

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