BIM

The assigned reading, Chapter 2 from BIM Handbook, gave me an opportunity to learn the details of BIM systems, advantages and disadvantages of popular softwares and also, to discover the history of BIM. In this chapter, it is explained that building industry is a little different from other industries due to fact that design standards and codes are very important to determine object behaviors. Additionally, it is described that the building is an assembly of object defined in a BIM system. I believe that BIM provides tremendous amount of advantages to building industry such as flexibility, time and cost efficiency etc. The most important problem for engineers is to present and describe their tasks to other people being part of the project. I think BIM is such an excellent tool that it can help project owners, engineers, and contractors to communicate more effectively.

The first article that I have read is called “Midwest Contractors Take Lead IN BIM”. The author explains the importance of BIM and the factors that have been playing a key role in BIM industry. It is indicated that BIM is becoming a standard in industry and users can pay up to $10,000 and above for BIM software. Thus, the cost may become a factor in the purchase decision. On the other hand, it is indicated that BIM is a very good communication tool for field personnel by helping them to better visualize projects.

The second article that I have read is “BIM for Energy Savings”. The authors of this article also explain the benefits of BIM, however, the most important one is to enable a degree of collaboration not normally seen conventional design processes. Additionally, it is determined that there are range of analysis tools that can be available to improve energy stage of buildings life cycle from design to construction. When the construction is finished the owner of the building can use the model to facilitate maintenance, operation and repairs. The authors also give information about EnergyPlus which is a building energy analysis and simulation tool designed under the supervision of Department of Energy. In conclusion, the authors believe that BIM is such a beneficial tool not only providing 3-D drawings but also, giving an opportunity to run energy and life cycle analyses.

After reading the assigned chapter and two other articles, I have determined that BIM is becoming very important in industry by helping engineers, architects, project managers and contractors and to accomplish their goals.