When Building Information Modeling is used to its greatest potential, it can optimize the entire process of building, from early preliminary design through to construction and operations.
The MacLeamy curve shown was developed by Patrick MacLeamy, chairman of HOK (global architectural design and services firm), to represent the advantages of replacing a traditional drafting-centric workflow with a BIM workflow.
The investment during the detailed design phase in the BIM workflow allows for a greater ability to impact cost and performance, which results in a reduction of overall costs. By focusing efforts earlier on in the design phase, the BIM workflow can save a lot of time, effort and resources later on.
Benefits of working with BIM include the following:
Simplified Clash Detection
The project team can find discrepancies between various disciplines earlier in the project and avoid reworking later on when costs and time needed increase. For example, if a structural beam conflicts with a mechanical duct, it could be noticed within the BIM model and resolved prior to construction.
Higher Returns on Investment (ROI)
According to the McGraw-Hill Construction report, over 80% of expert BIM users report positive returns. After initial investment and BIM workflow integration, most project teams notice reduced design change costs, less time needed to manage requests for information during construction and ultimately an optimized profit-earning potential.
