Building information modelling (BIM) has proven to be a crucial tool for architects and contractors in the design and construction of new buildings. Despite the advantages of BIM across the lifecycle of a building, its adoption by facilities managers for the operation and maintenance of buildings has been slow. Next-generation software is facilitating the use of BIM for facilities management by providing integrated solutions.
The rise of BIM in UAE
The UAE is among the leading countries in accelerating the digitalisation across various industries including construction and real estate sectors as a part of the 4th industrial revolution.
Dubai will be home to the first branch of BuildingSMART International in the Middle East and Africa region. The move underscores Dubai’s regional and international leadership in digital transformation and innovation in the construction and infrastructure sector.
BIM technology was introduced to the UAE construction market as a requirement by Dubai Municipality in 2013, by 2015 it was mandated for all government projects, buildings above 20 floors, and special facilities such as hospitals and universities, buildings and projects that are requested from a foreign office.
BIM has increased in popularity in recent years and it’s easy to see why. It provides a collaborative, model for shared working for all stakeholders in a building’s design, construction, and operation.
A survey conducted by Herriot-Watt University – after introducing BIM to UAE construction market- of over 500 AEC professionals working on UAE construction projects, revealed that 87% had used BIM in their organisations and
62% had used BIM for more than one project. The integration of data from multiple sources into a federated 3D model can provide a single source of truth in a tangible format. But despite a rise in architects and construction businesses using BIM, relatively few facilities management teams use BIM for the maintenance and operation of a building.
The benefits of BIM for facilities management
BIM benefits start before the building transfers to facilities management teams. BIM brings architects, contractors, clients, and facilities managers together to view and collaborate on the building and its assets during construction. Facilities managers can have more input into the design and the impact it has on operating efficiency, usability,
and security.
When a building is complete, the contractor should pass over the BIM model to the facilities manager as part of the as-built documentation. This digital twin offering an analytical edge contains all information relating to the building, its construction, and every asset. This 3D model becomes the blueprint for the building and its management, and brings the following benefits:
- All data is in one place: a single source of truth.
- This digital data file eliminates paperwork and duplicates, as it allows users to attach all information to the 3D design.
- Include asset data as part of the model, with documentation attached to its location in the digital twin.
- The BIM provides a safe place for testing. New layouts, troubleshooting and design modifications can all be tested and signed off in the digital twin before they are put live in the real world.
- When the model is linked to facility management software, companies can reduce the time taken to locate faults and arrange repairs.
- Next-generation facility management software is BIM-ready.
- The most advanced facility management software comes with integrated BIM.
- Additionally, it can also empower facilities managers to automate maintenance monitoring, maximise equipment lifespan, minimise risks, streamline processes and positively influence the growth of BIM in FM.
Some of the additional benefits include –
Complete asset inventory
Using the BIM viewer, users can view 3D digital versions of each asset. Within the BIM model, users can store all relevant data relating to individual assets and can therefore link installation dates, the material used, manufacturer information and consumable sourcing data directly to the asset. Contractors can then easily locate the asset through the 3D model and obtain the information they need through their smartphone. This saves time, making it easier for the contractor to find the fault and fix it.
Feedback to design
BIM users can easily store design notes in tickets, passing the BIM model back to design teams for updating. It’s then reloaded into the software when the model is complete. As a result, all the stakeholders have the most up-to-date view of the digital twin, and open tickets and audit history are automatically added to the new model.
BIM: paving the way for smart buildings
Smart buildings are the future. One day soon, we will live and work in buildings that will provide continuous feedback on assets and efficiencies. Facilities managers will generate huge efficiency gains and automate processes for asset protection and maintenance. The evolution of smart buildings has already started, and its green shoots are in BIM. In time, facilities managers will be able to stress-test different settings and layouts on a digital twin. Lighting, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), security devices and specialist assets can be controlled in the digital environment. This helps to realise greater efficiencies and lower operating costs. With automation and data feedback, facilities managers will make intelligent, information-based decisions to improve the safety, security, and comfort of buildings for all users.
Facility management software, such as PlanRadar, embedded with tools like a BIM viewer, is creating robust common data environments. Open solutions, with the ability to connect assets and software, are taking us one step closer to the smart buildings of the future.