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Frequently Asked Questions on BIM – Part 2

We get experts at Voxel1 Solutions to answer some of the most frequenly asked questions (FAQs) about BIM and its implementation process

Frequently Asked Questions on BIM - Part 2

1. In Projects where we are using BIM , how do we quantify or establish change management?
Ans: Change management for existing projects will not be very different from new implementations…First step would always be to bring all project team members on to the same page and ensure the project requirements are communicated. A good BIM Execution Plan is very helpful for Project Specific BIM Implementation

2. If any consultancy services used for any project how much it cost example in 1000 cr project?
Ans: Cost of BIM Consultancy service varies greatly basing on the agreed scope of work and the intended deliverable…Some of the key items that are typically used in scope are follows;

1. BIM Modelling ( ARCH, STR, MEP ) – LOD 300
2. Design Coordination ( Clash Detection )
3. Construction Simulation ( 4D )
4. Quantity Take-off (5D)
By defining the main project goals, the cost of service can be achieved depending on the project scale, complexity , typology, technology etc.

3. Which are the entry level or most cost-effective BIM software?
Ans: Within the open forum we do not prioritize a specific software / vendor. However, the technology is fairly advanced for team members to start using BIM for 4D with minimal training required.

4. Please throw some light on BIM specific contracts.
Ans: There is no 1 template that suits everybody’s contractual requirements. One should agree on the BIM Scope of work for a specific project basing on the benefits and skillsets that are available for the project. BIM Contracts should clearly define the BIM Use Cases, Roles and Responsibilities and other Model specific information in order give a clear understanding to both the parties.

5. To what depth the models could be used for O & M?
Ans: The life cycle of BIM Models managed properly can be utilized across the building life-cycle. Primarily after converting design & coordination models into As-Built models, the next logical step to expand the model usage to operations and maintenance. This we typically start with identifying and incorporating Asset related information into the BIM Models which results in AIM ( Asset Information Models ) . There are existing tools in place to use BIM Models to efficiently manage maintenance activities including ticketing, checklists, warranties etc.

6. We have talked about process of implementation…. But major problem is collaboration using diff software. How to deal with this?
Ans: “Open BIM” as a concept enables the software interoperability issues to a large extent with the help of IFC file formats. However, choosing the right set of tools that are interoperable is a key decision to be made early in the process.

7. Any way can you shed some light on use of COBIE standards in O&M model?
Ans: COBie as a standard is specifically made to bring an organized approach toward documenting non-geometric information specific to project assets. Since COBie standard is more on a spreadsheet format it enables for higher level of interoperability between BIM and legacy O&M tools. Feel free to write to me at kesari.payneni@voxel1.com for a more detail conversation on COBie and how it can help in your existing projects.

8. Can you please elaborate difference between EIR and OIR?
Ans: OIR – Organizational information Requirements are at a high level discussing the company’s objectives, technology needs etc. This can also include file formats, data requirements from various departments etc.
EIR – Employer Information Requirements are more specific to a project discussing what is expected from the contractors / consultants in terms of the over scope and technology related items. This can also include standards about how the information exchange should take place during the course of the project.

9. Can we discuss the possibilities of using BIM for Addition / Alteration projects? A sizeable part of the industry works with addition /alteration work?
Ans: BIM for existing projects has a clear benefit of being able to document the current status of the project in 3D with the help of legacy 2D drawings or Scan to BIM Technologies. This primarily allows the teams to start with an exact representation of the existing structure in BIM which can further be used for design exploration, quantities and continue into construction and maintenance

10. What’s your point of view…will BIM play an important role in architecture after this covid 19 ends (in terms of time saving)?
Ans: BIM has already become a common practice in the construction industry across the globe and India will follow the same post COVID 19 ….However COVID19 is a very good example for corporations to realize the importance of have standard operating procedures documented for the entire project life-cycel and further into implementing latest technologies to improve team efficiency.