BIM Introduction by Clarabel Versace

INTRODUCTION TO BUILDING INFORMATION MODELLING

Clarabel Versace

BIM has been in existence for some years now. However, in recent years it has become crucial. It has become mandatory in some countries and specific projects. Countries like Finland, the United States, Canada, Denmark, Norway, Australia, Singapore and the United Kingdom have mandated BIM. Although it has been used around the world for the past years, it is constantly evolving, and this comes along with the technological advancement and creation of BIM software. The term BIM has expanded lately and is considered the ‘current expression of digital innovation’ across the construction industry.

 What is BIM?

BIM stands for Building Information Modelling or Building Information Management. It is a collaborative process for creating and managing information throughout the whole lifecycle of a project. It is a new methodology of developing a project, a cultural change for all stakeholders involved. Such a process consists of coordinated digital information, mainly consisting of 3D models and associated information defined by ISO standards and other policies.

BIM has different dimensions and levels for which various software and processes may be applied. This article focuses on the various BIM dimensions, which show the multiple uses and applications of BIM in construction projects.

The BIM dimensions refer to the information associated with the 3D model. Since BIM is not only about having a 3D model, BIM dimensions are defined to differentiate between the conventional 2D or 3D geometry model and BIM models. BIM models, as the acronym states, consist of 3D but also further information. The ‘I’ in BIM stands for information, which is very important. 2D and 3D characterise the geometry of a model. The other BIM dimensions characterise additional information associated with the model. These BIM dimensions are 3D, 4D, 5D, 6D, 7D and 8D BIM. Every dimension represents a different type of information, as defined below.

The dimensions defined:

3D BIM – It is the digital three-dimensional geometric model.

4D BIM – It is the dimension related to time; hence scheduling and planning are integrated.

5D BIM – It is the dimension related to cost; hence cost-related information is integrated into the model.

6D BIM – It is the dimension related to facility management.

7D BIM – It is the dimension related to sustainability.

8D BIM – This is a more recent dimension, including health and safety-related information.

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