Getting the Best of BIM

March 16, 2010

he so-called technological revolution in the AEC (architecture, engineering, and construction) industry will probably extend beyond the widespread adoption of BIM (building information modeling). In fact, once the pen-and-paper holdouts get their arms around BIM, the “early adopters” will have already integrated additional solutions that extend, capitalize, and enhance its benefits .

One such technology is already making headway. A whitepaper by FASTTAC Inc.,www.fasttac.com, Wexford, Pa., makes the case that, though BIM minimizes potential field conflicts, other factors need to be considered. Industry experience says changes are not always conveniently timed, can occur throughout the construction phase, and happen far away from the main office .

In the whitepaper, “Extending the BIM Advantage across your Facility Lifecycle,” FASTTAC says its Digital Distribution System brings the benefits of BIM to the entire duration of the project by enabling instant electronic-sharing of data among all team members, regardless of their location. The end result, according to FASTTAC, is improved communication, collaboration, and coordination. 

The Digital Distribution System allows one-click access to the latest virtual set of drawings without download or printouts. The company says this can eliminate up to 80% of printing requirements, significantly reducing the project’s carbon footprint. 

Prior solutions to this problem include storing common files in central information repositories such as FTP (file transfer protocol) sites, plan rooms, or shared drives. These solutions may work for some companies, but require multiple steps and a certain level of computer literacy to manage the information effectively. 

FASTTAC believes technology such as the Digital Distribution System can be an effective alternative. The system’s synchronization button simplifies the sharing process by automatically placing and archiving project drawings and documents on the user’s desktop, laptop, or project kiosk – whether on or offsite. FASTTAC says even the most technically un-savvy team member will feel comfortable accessing the data. 

One of the greatest advantages to adopting technology is the ability to run a business in realtime. On a jobsite, realtime mark-ups can be an invaluable advantage when time and budget are on the line. Paper drawings and FTP sites cannot deliver this advantage, but the Digital Distribution System lets project managers or onsite coordinators record modifications and share project issues as they arise. 

FASTTAC says the combination of BIM technology and its Digital Distribution System is the next step toward a technologically revolutionized industry. As new ways to increase communication and collaboration on the jobsite become commonplace, AEC companies will be able to reach new heights in terms of productivity, efficiency, and most importantly – profitability

Source :- www.constructech.com