BIM Explained

Building Information Modeling

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is the foundation of digital transformation in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry. As the leader in BIM, Autodesk is the industry's partner to realize better ways of working and better outcomes for business and the built world.

Overview

What is BIM?

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is the holistic process of creating and managing information for a built asset. Based on an intelligent model and enabled by a cloud platform, BIM integrates structured, multi-disciplinary data to produce a digital representation of an asset across its lifecycle, from planning and design to construction and operations.
What is BIM? (video: 2:22 min.)

What is the process of BIM?

The process of BIM supports the creation of intelligent data that can be used throughout the lifecycle of a building or infrastructure project.

Plan
Inform project planning by combining reality capture and real-world data to generate context models of the existing built and natural environment.
Design
During this phase, conceptual design, analysis, detailing and documentation are performed. The preconstruction process begins using BIM data to inform scheduling and logistics.
Build
During this phase, fabrication begins using BIM specifications. Project construction logistics are shared with trades and contractors to ensure optimum timing and efficiency.
Operate
BIM data carries over to operations and maintenance of finished assets. BIM data can be used down the road for cost-effective renovation or efficient deconstruction too.

Benefits of BIM

The benefits of BIM are through connecting teams, workflows, and data across the entire project lifecycle—from design and engineering to construction and operations—to realize better ways of working and better outcomes.

What is BIM used for?

BIM is used for creating and managing data during the design, construction, and operations process. BIM integrates multi-disciplinary data to create detailed digital representations that are managed in an open cloud platform for real-time collaboration. Using BIM gives you greater visibility, better decision-making, more sustainable options, and cost-savings on AEC projects (video: 2:51 min).

Why is BIM important?

The global AEC industry must look to smarter, more efficient ways to design and build not just as a means to keep up with global demand but to help create spaces that are smarter and more resilient too. BIM not only allows design and construction teams to work more efficiently, but it allows them to capture the data they create during the process to benefit operations and maintenance activities. This is why BIM mandates are increasing across the globe.

How do teams collaborate on BIM?

BIM is revolutionizing the way projects are delivered across industries, adding intelligence and efficiency to project execution–and connecting teams, data, and workflows at every stage of the project in the cloud for better project outcomes.

How to successfully implement BIM at your firm

Moving to BIM can seem like a daunting task, in this video we take a look at two strategies that will help your firm create an effective BIM vision and manage change during your transition to BIM.

(video: 3:24 min.)

BIM Interoperability

It's the ability of AEC project teams to work and communicate fluidly across disciplines and industries, regardless of preferred software tools and vendors.  Autodesk is committed to supporting an open and interoperable AEC software ecosystem defined by seamless data connection.

Open, collaborative, and connected workflows

True interoperability requires powerful software, systems, and standards that enable the seamless exchange of data across disciplines, products, and formats. Learn how data interoperability empowers AEC collaboration.

(video: 2:49 min.)

openBIM collaborative process from buildingSMART

See how you can improve interoperability and collaboration. Learn about the methods of neutral, non-proprietary data exchange through Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) for AEC project teams and see how Autodesk is working to support them.

The Revit IFC manual

The Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) are open standards for the exchange of BIM information across different software. Learn how to export, link, and open IFC files within Revit. IFC 4.0 update coming soon.

The Micrographics Advantage

We don’t just sell software, we are technical experts who understand your industry. We can help you:

Integrate Business Systems

We develop data sharing solutions to improve and speed up the communication between CAD & business management technologies.

Optimize Business Processes

We do unique assessments of our clients, enabling them to address workflow challenges, identify opportunities & achieve objectives.

Leverage the Power of BIM

By understanding BIM philosophies we can develop & implement BIM solutions for any project or establish BIM standards for any company.

Have Questions About Complex Applications?

Speak to us about your operational requirements or outcomes and we'll tailor a solution best suited to your business.