BIM for Architects and Egnineers

This week's assignment is focused on Building Information Modeling (BIM) and its possible application for Architects and Engineers. This type of 3D software has been around for ages, however, it still has not been properly and efficiently utilized in the work of Architectural engineers possibly due to the fact explained in the Handbook. It is mentioned that the rates of adoption  among structural engineers are slower than for other construction professions. However, it is almost impossible not to embrace the multitude of benefits that arise from the use of tools provided by BIM modeling. BIM is a new way of multidisciplinary collaboration not only between various professionals responsible for project design, analysis, development, and construction, but also between the design stages themselves.
The Handbook examines three specific ways the new 3D modeling techniques are beneficial to the various design stages. The most fundamental stage of the design process where BIM finds many helpful applications is the concept design. This is where some of the most important core conceptual decisions are made, including the development of the building program, layouts of floor plans, the massing and general appearance of the building, site details, orientation and placement of the builidng. Traditionally this stage primarily relies on knowledge and intuition of the leader of the design team and the conceptual sketches, often hand-drawn, that they are able to develop. It is important not to overlook  the benefits of 3D computer modeling to speed up the sketching process with the use of such software as SketchUp, Rhino, or BonZai. BIM technoligies also provide a variety of beneficial applications in the design and analysis of the building systems. It feels as though BIM in this area is currently severely underutilized, even though it is able to efficiently combine all the different detailed analysis models into one. The other area of BIM application is in the development of construction-level information. BIM technologies are able to speed up the process as well as to greatly enhance the final quality of the product. This is the current strength of BIM application. In the future, the actual building model will serve as the basis for construction documents.
One of the most important points that the Handbook is hoping to convey is the fact that the process of building design is a complex and extensively collaborative experience. It requires the knowledge and expertise of professionals in a multitude of areas. It then becomes clear that the adaptation of such valuable tool as BIM that is able to support and combine all the information from the variety of contributors into one well-organized database is unavoidable.  Jalpesh has gone into a lot more detail here to explain and provide examples of this collaboration and how BIM programs are able to help. There are certain drawbacks and difficulties associated with an adaptation of any new technology. As Maria pointed out, the implementation of this new system requires the training of staff, development of new planning strategies, and etc. For such multidisciplinary process as the building design, however, it is impossible not to adapt BIM into a standard practice and possibly uncover even more practical benefits of the system.

Sources:
BIM Handbook