In this blog, we dive into the profound impact of Building Information Modeling (BIM) on construction efficiency, specifically focusing on its role in resolving conflicts between architectural and infrastructure elements. As projects become more intricate, especially in buildings with complex infrastructure in interstitial spaces, the need for seamless collaboration between design teams and construction trades becomes increasingly apparent.
One of the most useful tools developed for construction is Building Information Modeling (BIM). BIM involves the generation and management of digital representations of a building’s physical and functional characteristics. BIM models are especially useful in resolving construction conflicts between architecture/structural elements and the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) infrastructure that must be installed.
Design Teams create project drawings in 3-dimensional programs. These 3D files are utilized to create a BIM model if it is within the scope and budget of a project. BIM models provide even more value for more complicated buildings with many infrastructures in interstitial spaces. As a commissioning provider, the most common issues CxGBS encounters are associated with clashes between the construction trades because not all the infrastructure is included in a BIM that must fit above the ceiling. E.g., smaller electrical conduit runs that are bundled together, fire sprinklers/protection, etc., are included in the BIM model. The result of these omissions impedes service access required for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. This often results in O&M staff needing to de-construct finishes to access these components for service and repair. This adds a significant resource burden on the building owner in post-occupancy.
As part of the commissioning process, CxGBS works during the pre-construction phase in collaboration with the project team to review maintainability and serviceability coordination activities. The coordination process includes utilizing BIM models to help ensure that ALL systems, including smaller electrical bundles and fire protection systems, are not impeding access needed by the O&M staff to maintain and operate the building. When commissioning is included in the pre-construction activities, access issues are identified and brought to the project teams’ attention with recommendations to help resolve these issues collaboratively. Including pre-construction coordination significantly eliminates re-work and additional costs that would not otherwise be obvious until issues are discovered during construction. Catching issues early helps maintain and improve the project delivery schedule works to the project team’s advantage and reduces post-occupancy problems and additional cost burdens for the owner.
In conclusion, integrating Building Information Modeling (BIM) and proactive pre-construction coordination that includes building commissioning is pivotal in streamlining construction processes and minimizing post-occupancy challenges. As highlighted, using BIM models helps ensure a comprehensive representation of both the physical and functional aspects of buildings, aiding in identifying and resolving clashes between architectural and infrastructure elements.
