Benefits of BIM

Benefits to the Planner/Designer

• Use of Program Design tools such as Trelligence Affinity, which will link the project's program to other BIM tools such as Archicad and Revit.
• Use of integrated analysis tools such as Ecotect, IES Virtual Environment and Green Building Studio afford better environmental design aspects much earlier in the design process.
  

Benefits to the Cost Engineer

• Utilizing more accurate quantities from a building information modeling source.
• Tools such as Innovaya and Autodesk QTO typically use data extracted from Revit or Archicad and combine the quantities with cost databases such as Sage Timberline Office.
  

Benefits to the Owner

• Using accurate, 3D information models can help owners make more informed decisions about the feasibility of a proposed project.
• Tools such as Beck DProfiler or the Onuma Planning System fit this profile.
  

Benefits to the Architectural Designer

• http://www.aia.org/tap_default

Benefits to the Electrical Designer

• ?

Benefits to the Mechanical Designer

• ?

Benefits to the Plumbing Designer

• ?

Benefits to the Landscape Designer

• ?

Benefits to the Structural Designer

• Faster generation of structural detailing drawings
• Optimized parameters of the structural model following design rules
• Less approximations, more refined engineering design based on sound theory
• Integrated modeling, analysis and design (instead of splitting up the tasks)
• Better cooperation with the architectural designer and HVAC designer by exchanging models
• More attention to cost factors by studying alternative solutions on one model
• Integration with CAE solutions to achieve better and optimzed constructions
  

Benefits to the Telecom Designer

• ?

Benefits to the Civil Engineering Designer

• ?

Benefits to the Cost Engineer

• ?

Benefits to the Specifications Writer

• ?

Benefits to the Owner

• Rapid design fromusing "kit of parts" or dynamic prototyping approach -- USAF
• Standardized facility production increases productivity and economies of scale for IDIQ contract approach -- USACE
• Accurate numbers for leasable space -- GSA
• Best way to maximize investment for DBOM (Design, Build, Own, Maintain) -- Mortenson, U of W project

Benefits to the Construction Manager

• Toolbox talks can now use visualization for relaying information for safety or quality
• Phasing
• Sequencing
• Logistics Planning 

Benefits to the Construction Contractor

• Visualize what is to be built
• Collaborative review
• Interference checks (e.g., fire suppression piping running through the ductwork)
• Rehearse construction plans and sequences
• Rehearse heavy lifts and difficult carry-in movements
• Rehearse yard operation and site logistics
• More "what if" scenarios made possible by the sum total of all the “rehearsal” options
• Plan errors are found when building the models. Hence, fewer errors and omissions requiring corrections by the contractor and additional bills to owners.
• Saves time in staking out the project
• Enable GPS driven machine control equipment
• Provide a platform to study, plan and insert temporary construction such as scaffolding
• Fewer surprises in the field
• More prefabrication of materials and even some assembly in a controlled, factory environment which typically results in higher quality at a lower cost.
• Makes it possible for non-technical people to better visualize the final result
• Fewer callbacks and lower warranty costs
• Reduced risk
• Less construction material waste
  

Sections above quoted from Dean Bowman's blog article at: http://communities.bentley.com/blogs/dean_bowman_bentleys_blog/archive/2007/09/28/what-does-a-contractor-need-to-get-from-design-part-1-advantages-of-computer-models.aspx

Benefits to the Owner

• ?

Benefits to the Occupant

• ?

Benefits to the Owner

• ?

Benefits to the Occupant

• Facility management
  

Benefits to the Owner

• ?