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[inehasomani]

5 Factors to save time and cost with BIM!

BIM (Building Information Modelling) is a technology that everyone in AEC Industry is aware about. Whenever we come across the benefits and advantages of BIM, it is termed to be a Time and Cost saver.

But, how does BIM help us save Time and Cost?

It is obvious that Time and Cost are the 2 main factors involved in construction. If BIM helps us save these both to some extent, nothing better than that.Now, let us look into how BIM helps us save Time & Cost in actual.

BIM Time & Cost Saving Factors:

Implementing BIM on a Project can help you save Time which ultimately results in Cost savings and vice versa, irrespective of the investments done (prior to the implementation of BIM).

5 Factors of BIM Time and Cost Saving

1)    Transparency and Collaboration

2)    Ordering materials smartly

3)    Increasing time efficiency avoiding misunderstandings

4)    Successful Delivery of Project within deadline

5)    Saving Time required in documentation

1.Transparency & Collaboration:

With BIM, you can easily collaborate & maintain the transparency amongst the project team and the personnel involved throughout the project by creating consistent informative virtual models and access to the same, resulting in lower revisions or say early revisions in design thus, saving time and resultant costs, rather loss and wastage in later stages of construction.

 2.Ordering materials smartly:

With BIM virtual models, you can derive the accurate quantities of materials required for your project. Also, you can calculate the timescale/duration of the project depending on factors of cost and labor etc.

This eventually can help you order your materials timely in advance so that the delay is avoided as well as budgets are maintained. Thus, resulting in saving time and maintaining budgeted costs.

3.Increasing time efficiency avoiding misunderstandings:

With BIM, one can predict the timescale involved for the project which can be monitored during actual construction on site. Also, there is more clarity amongst the project team which means no or rather fewer misunderstandings and disagreements.

Hence, the progress of the project activities can be tracked and in case, any delay occurs, necessary steps can be taken to avoid its impact on further schedules and costs incurred.

4.Successful Delivery of Project within deadline:

BIM resolves potential conflicts in advance before the project is executed on site.

It is costly to rectify site issues after the installation has already taken place.

With BIM, it is easy to visualize possible conflicts and fix them before project completion.

This will reduce rework, conflicts, waste and delay in project delivery.

5.Saving Time required in documentation:

BIM helps to save huge amount of time in documentation for architects and construction managers thus, granting them more time to focus on the production of creative and unique designs for the project.

BIM makes it possible for clients to have several/various solutions rather than just one within the stipulated timeline of the project.

At the same time, the use of BIM leads to greater efficiency and accuracy in the design and construction phase of the project.

A single building model created/designed and integrated database contains all the information about the project in one single place, simplifying documentation needed for later maintenance, repairs or additions to the edifice.

 In addition to these factors, there are many more Benefits of BIM

Clear expectations of the project and less scope change

Increase user satisfaction with renovation results

Better documentation of the project resulting in lifetime data

Asset maintenance

Reduced risks

Fewer litigations

Lean approach

Greater Analysis

Pre-fabrication and modular construction

Provide better designs for projects aiming to reduce energy consumption

Thus, BIM offers multiple opportunities to reduce Time, Cost and make it easy aiding towards efficient project delivery.

BIM will help you save your time and money, not only during the design and construction of the building/edifice, but through its entire lifecycle.

 -BIM will make it easy!!

[inehasomani]

BIM - SWOT Analysis

SWOT is an acronym for Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats, and the most eminent approach for defining strategy and evaluations.

 BIM being widely used in AEC industry, I thought of conducting SWOT analysis of Strengths and Weakness of implementing BIM along with its Opportunities and Threats.

This SWOT Analysis will also help the firms (not yet on BIM platform) to delve into BIM and arrive to a decision to transition to BIM.

You may explore more about Overcoming the Barriers to BIM Adoption in AEC industry!

BIM-SWOT Analysis, here it goes…….

 1. BIM Strengths:

Intelligent Modelling process.

Time saving.

Reduced wastage.

Cost controls.

Predicted timeline.

Reduction in errors.

Risk mitigation.

Real-time data.

Energy optimization.

  2. BIM Weaknesses:

Learning BIM tools may take time initially.

No universal software platform.

Initial investments.

For effective results, BIM needs to utilized end to end for projects.

Needs to focus on information as well as geometry (design).

 3. BIM Opportunities:

Get updated with latest technology and trends.

Connect internationally and expand your business connections.

Be a leader and earn goodwill in this competitive era.

Data standardization.

 4. BIM Threats:

Unwillingness of the contractors/clients/users to use BIM.

Implementation without considering the actual application and proper training and interpretation.

Information overloaded in models or no information (lack of input) fed into the model.

Not implementing BIM in projects.

This article intends to understand what stops BIM from being implemented (Weaknesses and Threats) and to highlight the advantages of BIM (Strengths & Opportunities) aiding to your vision of BIM.

You may feel free to add on more of the SWOT of BIM which you reckon in the comments.

 -BIM will make it easy!!

[inehasomani]

4 Easy Steps to Initiate a BIM Pilot Project

The AEC industry, now, is very well informed about BIM and its advantages. Many of the AEC firms have embraced this effectual BIM technology while others are approaching it gradually before BIM becomes a mandate in the coming run.

For those who are planning for BIM transition can view Overcoming the Barriers to BIM Adoption in AEC industry! And 6 Effective Ways To Get More Out Of BIM After Adoption!

This new article of mine intends to highlight the Easy Steps to Initiate a BIM Pilot Project for successful implementation.  I am stressing on Pilot Project as - 

“The pilot projects have been considered to be one of the vital components of successful implementation plan for BIM.”

So, let’s take look and understand the steps to initiate a BIM Pilot Project:

 1. Selection of a Pilot Project:

If the firm takes a decision to BIM transition, it is keen on knowing and confirming the effects of BIM implementation as well as unveil BIM capabilities. Pilot Project is the best exercise for this, but the selection of Pilot Project for BIM also plays an important role.

Following are some of the points which can be focused for selection of a Pilot Project:

Business needs and trend

Complexity of the project

Availability of information for the project for comparisons

Use of the project & project delivery system

 2. Application of the training of BIM tool:

There is no use of training unless it is applied on a live project or bought into practice. This is where Pilot Project comes into picture. This practice can also be used for evaluating the understanding of BIM grasped by the team so far during the trainings.

It is also important that the users avoid switching back to traditional 2D CAD methodology and strives to achieve it through BIM tools opted by the firm as it can help them to be productive and apply their skills in the path of new learning.

  3. Undergo advanced training if needs demand:

 The Pilot Project is helpful for understanding the new BIM tool as well as identifying the areas and requirement for advanced training.  

It is evident that this transition is not so smooth sailing and the support of the management along with motivation for updating the skills of the users and would be a great booster for the team to go ahead with BIM for current and upcoming projects.

 4. Evaluation of the Pilot Project, & Documentation of the BIM plan:

 It is very important for a firm/organization to measure and evaluate the difference after transition to BIM and the respective increase in productivity.

Based on this, the team should define goals or alter the previous set road map as this will help them to achieve the optimum results for further projects.

Also, the documentation of hurdles faced while working on the Pilot Project, measuring the areas where BIM helped in enriching the design process will be aiding the team as well as management to solve them as well as assess the BIM implementation respectively.

 In closing, I would like to say that a successful pilot project is a true specimen to encourage the team towards Adapting to, Adopting & Implementing BIM in future projects.

 And as I always say, BIM is the future of AEC industry. So, for the AEC industry, it is either Adopt BIM and reap in the rewards or remain left behind in the competition.

  -BIM will make it easy!!

[inehasomani]

6 Effective Ways To Get More Out Of BIM After Adoption!

Building Information Modelling (BIM) is maturing! Realizing the value and true potential of BIM, AEC industry is moving towards its adoption and implementation throughout the lifecycle of a project—from the early planning, design, construction, operations—as well as a range of processes—like Clash Detection, 4D Scheduling, 5D Estimation, 6D sustainability, 7D Facility Management, and Scan to BIM in spite of certain concerns with regards to its adoption. But, what about BIM after adoption?

You can check my previous article based on Overcoming the Barriers to BIM adoption in AEC industry!  

For the ones who are not yet BIM equipped:- Have you decided to make the transition to Building Information Modelling (BIM) or have you already embarked on your journey with BIM? - This is indeed a good decision taken. But is that all….?

BIM adoption & implementation plan is not just about installing some new BIM software and getting the team trained to use it, rather, successful BIM implementation insists on careful and precise planning, change in attitude & willingness for a good change along with patience.

This article intends to shed some light on how to grow with BIM for the initial BIM adopters and helping to get started by putting BIM into practise in your organization/firm and eventually to get MORE out of BIM After Adoption.

So, let us take a look at some basic ideas which can assure that the decision of BIM implementation of yours is a successful one, delivering you with long-lasting benefits.

 #1 Set Expectations based on ground realities:

Once the training in accomplished along with a pilot project, don’t expect too much, instead set reasonable & achievable goals! This involves designing a strategy that addressed the business goals & objectives. This journey is full of experiencing waves of emotions like sometimes -“Amazing, this is being done so faster now!” whereas, “ I just hate doing it this new way, the previous one was better.”

There might be instances of issues coming your way that are needed to be tackled while working.

Start with smaller projects that can get you through, encouraging to step towards extensive & complex projects.

 #2 Set up right templates and standards to be followed:

Many of people think this is such a waste of time. No, it isn’t! Spending time in developing templates, is indeed a wise decision evading further time wastage.

You may start converting the existing standards and plan on new things that are required as per the business needs with a proper process. Setting up and freezing the file naming conventions also proves to be of great aid.

Setting up a correct project template and standards can help you to maintain uniformity throughout your projects with no further confusions, having a majority of standards (graphic scale symbol, north arrow, symbols, etc.) in hand and significantly reduce the amount of time taken to coordinate a set of drawings in BIM. This does not mean loading all the things in your template, but the important standards which are common to all projects. Also, just setting up templates is not enough, ensure that they are used and followed by the users.

This will help you focus on the design offering the client efficiency in deliverables as well as service.

 #3 Practise makes a man team perfect!

Training is not enough. Working on it practically and frequently will help the users to get a command over the BIM tool. New BIM adopters need a lot of practise/hand-holding during the initial stages. Also, pulling out some time out of the routine schedule to explore BIM videos/tutorials, taking up small courses available, reading articles etc. can be helpful to add up to your existing BIM skills. This can’t be forced to anyone except the fact that one wants to progress from basic to intermediate level……could be advanced too!

Practise has just no another option.

 #4 Don’t switch back to CAD:

There might be times of frustration making you feel that doing this with CAD is simpler or faster inducing you to switch back to the old CAD software.

This may be true but PAUSE and rethink about the benefits you will be reaping in further stages.

For instance- “With CAD plan could I be able to take it to a next level of Clash Detection?” or “Would I be able to avail bi-directional changes?” etc. This is just as simple as not stopping your BIM practise, instead do the same thing using BIM, regardless of time at the initial stages. Your expertise and inclination towards CAD should not be an excuse to move ahead with BIM.

 #5 Find the Champions by setting up milestone accomplishments:

This practise can be initiated by the management or senior authorities who can monitor the performance of the individuals by assigning them certain tasks setting up milestones of accomplishments and recognition For ex. A task wherein the individuals can model the office premises. Assigning reasonable time to the task is important as it will keep the team tied involved to complete the task within stipulated time and for the management to track the progress each individual is making. At the same time be cautious that you are not overburdening your staff as they are being asked to do something new along with the existing work.

Such activities can help the individuals to motivate and push themselves towards BIM.

For the management, it can prove to be helpful for discovering the champions and few enthusiastic champs who are involved in BIM and can lead teams taking ownership as well as help their colleagues with doubts or conduct small workshops, presentation sessions, general discussions wherein everyone gets chance to share knowledge encouraging collaboration and smooth transition.

 #6 Keep up the spirit!

The success of any BIM implementation will depend majorly on owning a great team of individuals to develop and manage the projects. Apart from good training of using BIM tools you should also ensure to keep everyone’s motivation levels in your organisation as high as possible. Once that you are comfortable with BIM as a standard practise, continue developing the skills of your team. Educating your clients with BIM before the transition and even after your transition to BIM showcasing its true potential and your experience with BIM over CAD approach would help them realize “BIM Power” bolstering their trust to work with you!

As a part of my role as a BIM Analyst at Matrix3D, from my experiences with clients, I would say that there might be times when the BIM adoption takes more time than envisaged, also there are users who are frustrated with the change to new methodology, etc.

In such cases, don’t panic or give up on the transition as this transition is not easy or smooth sailing and if you give up, you are missing out on the forthcoming benefits. Give some time for this transition as it is more than just a new software. Also, don’t forget that People, Process & Technology are the 3 vital pillars of this transition, strengthen them!

If you have any doubts or wish to discuss about anything related BIM, feel free to put forth a point. I’ll be happy addressing them.

-BIM will make it easy!!

[inehasomani]

Overcoming the Barriers to BIM Adoption in AEC industry!

 We all now are aware about what (Building Information Modeling) BIM exactly signifies!

For those who are reading my blog for the first time can refer BIM Power.

 There’s a buzz about BIM everywhere in the AEC industry. But the very next question that arises in their minds is “Do we really need BIM?”

As a part of my role at Matrix3D as BIM Analyst, when I am conversing with Architects, Design firms, Design teams, Engineers who are not currently on the BIM platform, but perceive some BIM information, often are curious to know though BIM heard of being such a valued technology/concept, what is that stopping or hindering its successful adoption & implementation across the AEC industry.

This article intends to take a look at some of the barriers to BIM adoption & how to possibly overcome them.

Barriers to BIM adoption:

 Project Size:

The notion that BIM is useful only for big/complex projects and we are not so big to adopt BIM causes to stop the firm from adoption of BIM.

 Client Demand:

The clients with whom we deal not necessarily demand BIM also gives the firms/organizations an excuse to evade BIM adoption.

 High cost involved in Training & Software:

BIM implementation accounts me for high investments on things like Software as well as training. Also, our existing work will get hampered. Similar conceptions of the firms/organizations also hold them back from BIM adoption.

 Resistance/Reluctance:

Resistance to change is human nature stopping the users/organization to step out from their comfort zones & embrace new technology, thus, resulting in a “NO” to BIM adoption.

 Comparing CAD to BIM:

Comparing CAD to BIM is also one of the primary reasons restraining BIM adoption in organizations. Here, the approach of the individual is, for instance, “Why do we need BIM when we can acquire 3D models from our existing software?”

 There might be yet many more reasons/excuses obstructing BIM adoption and implementation overall, but we’ll try looking at overcoming the above ones.

 Firstly, let us understand the key factors on which successful BIM adoption in any organization depend upon. These factors can easily help to solve the above concerns obstructing BIM adoption.

Source: CHALMERS, Master’s Thesis

Yes, People, Process & Technology.

Focusing on 1. People:

Efficient knowledge of BIM to the people/team to clear the misconceptions about BIM and showcasing the outcomes that BIM will help them achieve once adopted should be conveyed to the people i.e. the team.

The BIM awareness created in the organization/firm may vary as per the hierarchy for ex.  The decision makers may not be interested to know the technology used or tools used irrespective of the cost for BIM adoption but the processed involved & the long term gain and benefits of their investment, however, the design team would be keen to understand the tools and the benefits of BIM that would align to their deliverables making their work easier addressing their pain points.

Also, undertaking a training program with professionals, sharing of related case studies could also be helpful to set free the reluctant mindset of the team.

  Focusing on 2. Process:

The organization/design team needs to be aware & accept the fact that moving to a BIM platform demands workflow process to change/alter. This does not limit the use of BIM only to complex projects. The process change may differ from organization to organization based on the business objectives.

Process changes in BIM adoption can be in two ways- Revolutionary or Evolutionary.

Revolutionary change represents starting off from scratch and invent a completely new process, whereas, evolutionary change means developing on the good parts of the existing traditional processes and replacing/altering the ones no longer required. 

Taking up pilot projects by identifying a project to work upon along with training makes sure that the team is enthusiastic and keen to learn the tool and apply it in actual working.

Also, the team would not come up with most of the questions during training program as they will during their first live project.

Source: CHALMERS, Master’s Thesis

 Focusing on 3. Technology:

Updating the IT infrastructure, dedicated high speed internet connection, along with introduction of new software tools that suits best the organization needs supporting the business goals and collaborative technologies form a primary part of the technology changes involved in BIM.

Organizations can discuss and create BIM awareness amongst the clients- that using BIM on their projects can help them achieve benefits/gains in long run against initial investments required. Analyzing the client’s objectives mutually and developing the business case wherein BIM can be effective can help them achieve a competitive advantage leading to investing in BIM now, rather than waiting for the clients to demand it later.

Source: CHALMERS, Master’s Thesis

Thus, People, Process & Technology are inter-related change factors responsible for BIM adoption in an organization which indeed help in overcoming the barriers to BIM adoption.

There is no doubt in BIM having its inevitable benefits like:

Time Saving

Increase in productivity

Lifecycle Data

Predictable Costs

Collaborative & Faster Design Process

Reduced Wastage

Integrated & Accelerated Project Delivery

And so on….

You may also refer my previous articles to get elaborated information of the BIM potentials:

Go Green with BIM

Empowering BIM with VR

Gearing up BIM with AR

BIM Cloud Collaboration

In closing, I would say that it is important to understand that BIM adoption is not a very simple or quick process and it involves patience, readiness for a change and investments initially.

As we discussed earlier, changes in existing process, mindset and technology of the organization is very essential towards meeting the business goals with BIM. Once adopted and implemented successfully, BIM aids in increasing productivity, on-time delivery and controlling costs.

BIM is the future of AEC industry and has a long way to go concerning its optimum utilization!

So, for the AEC industry, it is either Adopt BIM and reap in the rewards or remain left behind in the competition.

You may initially decide on Outsourcing BIM services to the BIM Service providers available to save  

the initial costs/investments incurred and realize the power/potential of BIM to help you take an informed decision. We can definitely help you with the same!

You can also browse through the case studies & success stories available on BIM adoption & implementation which will help you decide on your journey with BIM!

 -BIM will make it easy!!

[inehasomani]

Things that BIM and Revit can do together

Hope that through my last article I was able to clear the doubts about Revit & BIM’s relation.

 This article intends to answer why Revit software aims to be a BIM software!

 Now, let us now get the drift of Revit and its robust BIM features….

 A multi-disciplinary solution:

Revit supports Architectural, Structural and MEPF (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing & Fire-fighting) Modelling as well as their co-ordination.

 Analysis:

Revit helps you to perform energy analysis, solar study analysis, heating and cooling analysis over the model to get early insights of the model.

 Bi-direction Associativity:

In Revit, a change anywhere is change everywhere. Meaning, if a change is done in a plan view, it gets updated in each of the views evading the need to edit it manually in each view.

 Collaboration:

Revit supports worksharing of a single project i.e. Multiple project contributors can access centrally shared models which results in better co-ordination, which helps reduce clashes and re-work.

 Detailing and Drafting:

Revit allows you to create detailed views providing clarity about the elements and the constituents it is made up of. This helps in documentation.

 Documentation & BOQs:

Revit helps you to create a set of construction documentation based on the input/data each of element in the project holds and generate Schedules/BOQ’s which are tables used as a report in a construction documentation set. 

 High-end Visualization:

Revit helps you to apply materials from material library and use a large repository of Revit families to enhance your model to communicate design intent more effectively to project owners and team members by using models to create high-impact 3D visuals. If you require some unique materials or families to be used in the project, they can be downloaded. In case of the families, they can be downloaded from various sources or even be modelled to meet the project needs.

 Interoperability:

Revit imports, exports and links your data with commonly used formats, including IFC, DWG and DGN. IFC (Industry Foundation Classes) is an open file format to facilitate interoperability of BIM models.

 Parametric Components:

Revit comprises of Parametric components which enables you to create a project with parametric building elements like- Door, Window, Wall etc. which can be edited as the project demands.

 Phases:

Revit also allows you to model the elements phase wise with the help of Phase attribute to determine the phases of elements/work that you want to track for the project by assigning appropriate Phase (time periods) like Existing, Demolished, New Construction respectively to the elements.

Thus, Revit is capable of tracking the construction’s entire lifecycle from conceptualization upto demolition.

  The complete 3D model (virtual building data) with its representations (floor plans, sections, 3D views, schedules, etc.) and the final drawing sheets (layouts) are all included in one Revit Project file(.rvt).

 Aren’t all these features of Revit of great help to create BIM models and maintain high consistency throughout projects, thus, maximizing productivity and enabling faster project delivery.

 Revit is one of the best implementations of BIM available today and someone has stated it so correct that-

“BIM is poised to be a major innovation in architecture industry in the 21st century, and Revit supplies oxygen to this wonderful innovation.

There are number of reasons behind the increasing acceptance of Revit software in AEC industry.”

-Anonymous.

 Let me know if you need any further information on Revit or have any queries which you wish to discuss. I would be glad to help you answer them.

Also, you may find the link below to view a brief .ppt showcasing Revit abilities.

https://www.slideshare.net/nehasomani15592/revit-presentation-131320850

-BIM will make it easy!!

[inehasomani]

Are Revit and BIM same…? Distinguishing between BIM and Revit

Confused? Not to worry….

Let us clear the misconceptions and seek answers to what really BIM and Revit mean. 

Are they similar or distinct?

This article intends to answer the Questions regarding BIM and Revit and clarify the differences between the two as most of the people assume to consider Revit & BIM the same.

 1. Are Revit and BIM the same? Are BIM and Revit software?

We often come across people addressing Revit as BIM all together. But the fact is, Revit is not BIM.

 BIM (Building Information Modelling) is a process/technology/ platform and Revit is one of the many BIM tools/applications available like ArchiCAD, AECOsim, Edificius etc.

 Thus, a 3D model designed using the Revit application is designed for BIM.

  2. What is Revit?

 Revit is a BIM based software widely used by Architects, Engineers, Contractors, Designers to create a unified model consisting of real-life information.Source: Autodesk

It is a design and documentation platform that enables you to use a single, integrated building information model to conceptualize, design, and finally document a project.

 Revit software enables you to attain virtual modelling i.e. get a virtual   model of the building or infrastructure before it is actually done on-site.

 The tools in Revit software are designed specifically to support BIM   allowing users to create an intelligent model with data stored in it. These   tools if used properly can help you avoid rework, minimize cost, detect   conflicts before constructions happens on-site, avoid delays etc.

  3. What is BIM?

 Building Information Modeling (BIM) is an intelligent 3D model-based PROCESS that involves digital representation of physical and functional characteristics of a facility.

 BIM is a shared knowledge resource for information about a facility forming a reliable basis for decisions during its life-cycle; defined as existing from earliest conception to demolition.

  4. Can Revit replace BIM?

 Revit is a software used for making drawings and virtual models for a project. Autodesk Revit was created to support BIM and not to replace BIM.

It is as simple as- Revit supports BIM. The drawings and other documents generated by Revit form a part of the Building Information Model.

 5. What is the role of BIM & How does Revit support BIM?

 The role of BIM is to link all information relating to a building and incorporating it to produce a comprehensive a 3D model. BIM has to rely on different software to collect this information for a project and compile it together.

Revit is one of the BIM software to create BIM based model. It combines the architectural design, structural engineering design and MEP models for coordination. Also, it helps in making a data-rich model based on the inputs.

  I hope, I was able to clear the doubts that may arise in one’s mind with regards to BIM and Revit and was able to draw a line between BIM and Revit for those who considered them to be the same.

 Would you all like to know what all things/wonders Revit and BIM can do together?

 Then, find my next blog on “Things that Revit and BIM can do together.”

 Till then, let me know if you have any further queries on BIM. I would be glad to address them.

 -BIM will make it easy!!

[inehasomani]

Drones Technology for AEC Industry-A boon!

DRONES…We all are familiar with this tool as a martial tool.

But DRONES are not any longer restricted to Military and Government.

The use of DRONES is increasing and becoming popular these days for Aerial Photography, Agriculture, Mapping Applications, Weather Forecasting and many more…! 

“Drone is any unmanned aircraft or ship, also known as UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle), that is guided remotely”.

Could BIM be integrated with Drones?

Yes… And for no surprise Drones have arose as powerful technology to bolster BIM technology in many ways.

Let’s give a look of how Drones can be combined with BIM workflow at different stages of a Project.

Pre-Construction Activities:

Activities like land surveying (topography) & site exploration can be successfully achieved by Drones Technology saving time and labor and indeed giving precise surveys not prone to human errors which are high-resolution and clear aiding Planning and Design.

Throughout Construction:

During Construction, Drones can be utilized for numerous tasks like better designing with a view of prevailing site details and adjacent structures, you may be able to design a model and visualize it in a better manner making it viable for construction.

Tracking and monitoring progress and have a view of the activities taking place on the site.

Security concerns of the site can also be resolved by having a sight of all the trespassing, theft or damage taking place along with the safety of the laborers on site reducing on-site mishaps.

Post-Construction:

Activities like inspections, maintenance, evaluation activities can be accomplished saving time with efficiency and accuracy.

Visualization & Marketing:

Incomparable aerial views of the site help in providing enriched viewing experiences to the owners and associated personnel. Also, they can help to highlight prominent areas of the edifices for promotional purposes.

Thus, Cost Effectiveness; Risk Mitigation; Access to remote sites & locations; Enhanced Data Resolution; Saving time in Data Collection & its Processing Compact & Intellectual Results are some of the benefits of the Drone Technology that extends the usage of Drones from Construction (AEC) Sector to Agriculture, Urban Development, Railways, Infrastructures, Forest & Wildlife, Disaster Management, Health Care, Mining, Traffic Management.

As stated by the global market intelligence and advisory firm, BIS Research, India is expected to be one of the fastest growing markets for drones and UAVs because of their ability to transform all key sectors. India’s UAV market is expected to reach USD 885.7 million by 2021, whereas, the global UAV market will reach US$ 21.47 billion.

Aren’t you excited to embrace this technology and work with Drones!

You may certainly but just take some time to go through the protocols as Usage of Drones is bound by the Drone Policy of The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) which answers the queries like How, Who, Which and Where can one fly drones subject to certain Do’s and Don’ts.

You may find the below links that highlight the same aspect:

https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/transportation/airlines-/-aviation/know-your-drone-dos-and-donts-before-you-hit-the-skies/articleshow/65574802.cms 

https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/flying-drones-now-legal-india-heres-all-you-need-know-92558

https://www.businessinsider.in/flying-drones-is-finally-legal-in-india/articleshow/65573434.cms

To mention, there are many companies globally including India, providing Drone Manufacturing/Repairs as well as BIM Drone Services. You can easily get their information on Internet.

In closing, Drones Technology in conjunction with BIM will prove to be valuable throughout the project lifecycle and play a vital role in enabling AEC industry to add deliver massive & complex projects efficiently & effectively with regards to time and quality. Isn’t this exciting!

I strongly believe that Drones will definitely prove out to be a great tool for BIM lovers!

-BIM will make it easy!!

[inehasomani]

Gearing up BIM with Augmented Reality (AR)!!

 AR (Augmented Reality) technology has been in hype over the past few years. Let us understand how AR would help gearing up BIM for the AEC industry.

This article would help us explore Augmented Reality and acquaint ourselves with the range of applications & tools providing it enabling us to link or upgrade our existing workflow/style with AR technology & decide on which tool/app would suit best to suffice our respective requirements accordingly in order to get benefitted by it.

Starting with understanding what Augmented Reality stands for…

Augmented reality is defined as "an enhanced version of reality created by the use of technology to add digital information on an image of something."

Source: https://learningenglish.voanews.com/a/augmented-reality-versus-virtual-reality/3844772.html

 It could also be defined as a technology that superimposes/overlays a computer-generated image on a user's view of the real world, thus, providing a composite view for enriched experiences.

Augmented reality (AR) is an interactive experience of a real-world environment where the objects that reside in the real-world are "augmented" by computer-generated intuitive information.

Source: Wikipedia

 The terms VR and AR could perplex us, in fact they do.

 In layman's terms, the big difference between Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality is that VR is immersive whereas, AR adds digital components to the live/real world or view making it intensified.

 To relate it to our day-to-day life, Snapchat, Instagram and Facebook Messenger lenses (filters) are mere examples of AR technology.

 Best example to mention: Pokémon GO game.

 AU Technology is supported by Mobile phones/Tablets by means of Holograms in some cases; PCs and Smart TVs as well as Smart Glasses.

 Some of the best Augmented Reality tools with regards to BIM are listed below:

(As specified earlier in the article, you may browse through the websites provided to avail brief information & features of the tools/apps to make a right choice).

1.    Vuforia - https://www.vuforia.com/

2.    Wikitude - https://www.wikitude.com/

3.    Apple ARKit - https://developer.apple.com/arkit/

4.    Maxst - http://maxst.com/#/

5.    Kudan - https://www.kudan.eu/

6.    InfinityAR - https://www.infinityar.com/

7.    Google ARCore - https://developers.google.com/ar/

8.    SmartReality AR - http://smartreality.co/

9.    Pair formerly called Visidraft - https://www.pair3d.com/

10. DAQRI AR Helmet / Smart Glasses - https://daqri.com/  https://daqri.com/products/smart-glasses/

11. ARki - https://www.darfdesign.com/arki.html

12. Microsoft Hololens - https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/hololens

13. Magic Leap One - https://www.magicleap.com/

14. Augment - https://www.augment.com/

15. ViewAR -  https://www.viewar.com/

16. BIMevoke - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.tminternational.evokear&hl=en

17. SightSpace Pro - https://sightspace.pro/

18. Google Glass - https://www.x.company/glass/

19. Meta 2 - https://www.metavision.com/

 And so on….

 Some examples of the apps developed based on AR technology for Architecture to view and re-design your arena in terms of wall paints, furniture systems, décor etc. are:

1.    MagicPlan

2.    PLNAR

3.    Housecraft

4.    Houzz

5.    IKEA PLACE

6.    Dulux Visualizer

7.    Build.com

etc.

 Coming to BIM-specific project cases and alliance, AR is an emerging technology fostering value addition with regards to:

1.    Increasing efficiency and accuracy/preciseness of plans and models

2.    Collaboration

3.    Viewing what is hidden (that cannot be seen with the naked eye) like behind the walls, below the surface etc. Precisely, obstructed or blocked views

4.    Preserve time and money by substituting plans with 3D models

5.    Providing real-time maintenance information

6.    Safeguarding on-site safety issues

7.    Improvising productivity

8.    Anticipate operations and maintenance

9.    Effective surveillance and inspections

10. Redefine designs as per client’s needs

11. Avoid errors and rework

12. On-time and budgeted Project delivery

13. Satisfied customers/clients as there is a technical ice-breaker between the consultants and client.

14. Addressing the issues before conflicts arise

15. Most importantly, Enriched visualization

 Imagine the scenarios, wherein,

·        A building supervisor could overlook walls, floors or ceilings in order to evade damaging waterlines, breaking walls etc. thus, leading to eased process of inspection and scrutiny.

·        Just with the use of a tablet or smartphone, the engineer is capable to visualize components of the project as needed regardless of waiting for the site to be visited.

·        A maintenance engineer capable to detect a faulty circuit/equipment through a building just by viewing the image generated by AR app, thus, facilitating risk management.

All thanks to AR!!

 To conclude, the prospective of AR technology in the AEC sector cannot be disregarded. AR technology is on the verge of becoming a transformation to the way AEC industry functions boosting communication/collaboration and productivity of the projects.

 AR is not only becoming a part of AEC industry but also, rapidly turning out to be popular in Travel, Heath care, Education, Gaming, Retail, Marketing, Navigation, Advertising, Media fields.

 Though AR is embraced by AEC industry, it is yet maturing and has a long way to go….!!

  -BIM will make it easy!!

[inehasomani]

Empowering BIM with VR!!

BIM helps us to get a virtual model of the building/structure and the idea of how it would be looking actually on the proposed site.

Moving a step ahead, what if we get to enter into this building/structure and get the realistic feel of materials, lighting, and walk in this space as we would actually when the building is actually built..!!

This is actually viable, and this technology is called Virtual Reality (VR)….

What is VR??

Technically speaking, VR is can be referred to as immersive multimedia or computer-simulated reality, that replicates an environment, that simulates a physical presence in places in the real world or an imagined world, allowing the user to interact in that world.

It is a fully digitalised simulation.

VR could be referred to immersive experience that could transport you digitally to different place, time & environment from the current.

It provides you a 360-degree view with enhanced visualization.

As you move your head, the image moves just as it should in real life, thus, enhancing the actual 3D model.

The VR results can be achieved with the help of Mobile VR, Console VR & Apps.

Some of them are as listed below:

Oculus Rift VR

Google Cardboard

Google Daydream

HTC Hive

Samsung Gear VR

Zeiss VR One

Storyboard VR

Enscape

Insite VR

Revizto

Iris VR

Prior VR

Fuzor

Revit Live

Edificius VR

Twinmotion

Virtuix Omni

ARQVR

 There are many more apps & headsets available but most common are the above ones…The use of Smartphones, Tablets added to computers is also increasing enormously to avail the VR technology.

 How does VR empower BIM?? What are its advantages??

 As the modelling process becomes digital with the help of the Building Information Model (BIM), VR enhances this process with visualisation helping the stakeholders to intensify their perception of designs & escalate decision making.

For architects & designers, VR works in alliance with digital modelling & planning to solve issues like spatial issues along with clashes & design limitations, thus, enabling faster project delivery making it aesthetically pleasing.

It would also aid to improving team collaboration for better, speedy & accurate decision making at all stages avoiding rounds of revisions.

Moreover, VR would make the building/design more appealing for the customer/client to walk inside the model & explore each & every corner of it enabling live experience & better visualization for the client, thus, resulting into their contentment. All this would eventually, lead them to make wise decisions about their investments into the property.

To summarize this technology is benefiting construction firms today by:

Managing changes at an early stage

Reducing Rework

Maintaining Deadlines

Resolving Issues Faster & Better

Increasing Quality of work by avoiding misinterpretation

Reducing cost of rework

Strengthening their relations with clients & positive interactions

The adoption and acceptance of VR has been ascending.

At places where this technology is widely been practiced, (particularly AEC industry), have reaped a good deal certainly.

To conclude, VR is not only becoming popular in AEC industry but also emerging as a powerful technology for Aviation, Medical science & the Military….

 -BIM will make it easy!!

[inehasomani]

Go Green with BIM!!

What comes to our mind when we think about Green BIM or Green Building?

In layman's terms, Green construction or something which is eco-friendly in nature.

However, to elaborate it could be defined as the symbiosis of Green Buildings & BIM for sustainable designs.

It could also be addressed as a tool to attain sustainability objectives on a project.

The AEC industry has evolved from the terminology of GREEN to SUSTAINABLE now!!

What made BIM & Sustainability align?? How do BIM & Sustainable unite?? And so on……

Challenges such as Global warming, drastically increasing pollution, climatic changes, depletion of energy resources, risen rates of carbon emissions etc. have made SUSTAINABILITY to become a vital part of the present AEC industry.

BIM boosts sustainability by designing a model (iterative modelling) that stores intelligent data which can further be utilized to conduct energy calculations & simulations in the form of analysis to acquire an energy efficient design to attain optimum design decisions.

Imagine how advantageous would it be if we get the prior information about the expected energy consumption of a structure, decide on the lighting fixtures taking the sunlight/natural light into consideration, anticipate the hot spots of the building etc. so that an energy efficient edifice is constructed.

Such an Energy efficient & effective design/model typically termed as "GREEN BUILDING" makes use of the apt materials, generates limited wastage, consumes naturally available resources thus limiting the use of conventional resources yielding a healthy & safe zone for the inhabitants.

 By conducting:

1.      Daylight Analysis

2.      Heating & Cooling Analysis

3.      Load Analysis

4.      Solar Study during the SD ( Schematic Design)Stage. In some cases,DD (Design Development) Stage

could aid achieving energy efficient model at a very earlier stage.

 To add, going solar; installation of green walls or green roofs; practicing rain water harvesting, use of automated sensor-based lighting appliances could also help us go green & make the edifices sustainable.

 To determine whether a Green Building is genuinely a Green Building or not is determined against the pre-designed rating systems:

These are the primary Rating systems in India:

GRIHA

IGBC

BEE

GBCI

 To conclude, BIM is progressively catering sustainable advantages to AEC industry.

Also, this adoption is currently encouraged by governments with mandates (statutes) and incentives.

 -BIM will make it easy!!

[inehasomani]

BIM Power!!