Top 6 BIM Myths

Jugal Makwana, Global Director - BIM/Digital Engineering, Royal HaskoningDHV

As a professional in the construction industry,  I’ve always been curious about how  to increase productivity and sustainability.  Early on in my career, I became interested  in leveraging open BIM and geospatial  standards to increase the sustainability of  our projects, and that is when my journey with digitalization  began. I soon understood that these technologies  could raise productivity and streamline procedures in  addition to enhancing the environmental performance of  the built environment. 

The physical and functional qualities of a  facility are represented digitally through building  information modeling (BIM). By enabling experts in  design, construction, and operations to cooperate and  communicate more effectively, streamline procedures,  and boost productivity, it is a potent instrument that  has revolutionized the construction industry. BIM  is, however, the subject of numerous myths that may  prevent its implementation. To fully appreciate the value  and potential of BIM, it is crucial to distinguish between  fact and fiction. 

Myth 1— BIM is just about 3D  modeling 

It’s a prevalent misconception that BIM is a tool for  making 3D models. BIM is considerably more than  just delivering 3D models. BIM is a process enabled  by technology that can begins at the conceptual  design stage and continues throughout the built asset’s  entire lifecycle. Stakeholders in design, construction,  and operations can procure and deliver structured  information models, both graphical and non-graphical  which can help them collaborate and communicate  more successfully, which increases the precision and  effectiveness of the project delivery process. The 3Dmodel could potentially be one of the deliverables (or byproducts)  of BIM but 3D is definitely not the only one.

Myth 2— BIM is a one-time process 

BIM is often considered as an add-on to traditional workflow,  this gives an idea that BIM is a one- time process that it finishes  after the design phase is another misconception about it. BIM,  can enable you to deliver a ‘Project Information Model’ with  the required details during the design and construction phase of  the project which can be enhanced to be a ‘Asset Information  Model’ to be used during the asset management and operation  phase. For instance, BIM can offer comprehensive information  about the part, including its manufacturer, model number, and  installation instructions, if a facility manager must order a  replacement part for a piece of equipment. This increases the  facility’s overall effectiveness by ensuring that the right part is  ordered, delivered, and installed promptly. 

“To fully appreciate the value and potential of BIM, it is crucial to distinguish between fact and fiction”

Myth 3— BIM is just for design 

Contrary to popular belief, BIM is not only helpful during  the project’s design phase. BIM can be utilized for facility  management and upkeep as well as for the planning,  coordinating, and implementation of construction projects.  For instance, BIM can be used to make precise budgets and  timelines, spot potential disputes, and monitor the development  of the construction process. The danger of delays and cost  overruns can be decreased by employing BIM, which helps  construction professionals work more efficiently and accurately  throughout the project delivery process. 

Myth 4— BIM is a replacement for  traditional workflows 

Some people think that traditional workflows like project  management, 2D drafting, and hand calculations can be replaced  by BIM. This is not the case, though. BIM should support  current

 workflows rather than replace them. BIM can be used in  conjunction with traditional processes to increase efficiency  and accuracy, but it cannot take the place of experienced  experts’ skills and knowledge. For instance, BIM can be used  to generate precise budgets and timetables, but it is still crucial  for project managers to comprehend the complexities of project  management and be able to make wise judgments. 

Myth 5— BIM adoption requires a  significant cultural shift 

Adopting BIM can require a shift in mindset, as it involves  moving from a paper-based process to a digital one. This  can be challenging for some organizations, especially if they  are used to working in a certain way. However, the benefits  of adopting BIM far outweigh the challenges. BIM enables  improved collaboration and data-driven processes, which can  lead to increased efficiency and accuracy. For example, if a  design change is made during the construction phase, BIM can  automatically update all related documents, plans, and models,  making it easier for all stakeholders to stay informed and on  track. While BIM adoption may require a shift in mindset, the  benefits of improved collaboration and data-driven processes  make it well worth the effort.

 Myth 6— BIM and AI/ML will replace human  workers

 Some people think that human employees will eventually be  replaced because of the combination of BIM with AI and ML.  This is not the case, though. Instead of replacing human labor,  BIM and AI/ML can be utilized to supplement and improve it.  BIM and AI/ML, for instance, can be used to automate some  processes, such as creating design possibilities or data analysis,  freeing up human workers to concentrate on more challenging  and imaginative jobs. Additionally, BIM plus AI/ML can  increase productivity and accuracy in design and construction  processes, lowering the likelihood of mistakes and rework.  While BIM and AI/ML can automate some processes, they  cannot take the place of human workers’ creativity and problemsolving  abilities. 

To truly embrace the possibilities and advantages of BIM,  it is crucial to comprehend its actual nature. BIM to me is  ‘Better Information Management’, BIM is relevant for design,  construction, and operations. It is a continuous process that  involves continuing collaboration and communication among all  project stakeholders. BIM’s integration with AI/ML can improve  and augment the job of human workers because it is intended to  supplement rather than replace traditional workflows.

Construction professionals can embrace BIM’s advantages  and think about implementing it in their projects by  distinguishing fact from fiction and understanding the genuine  nature of the technology.