BimScaler Blog – Building Information Modelling (BIM) has emerged as a critical tool in the construction and design industries, facilitating better collaboration, increased efficiency, and lower costs.
However, managing the massive amounts of data produced by BIM processes can be a difficult task. Effective BIM data management is critical to maintaining data accuracy, accessibility, and security.
The introduction of cloud technologies has transformed how BIM data is managed, creating new opportunities for streamlined workflows and improved collaboration.
Let’s learn more about BIM data management, including its definition, challenges in managing it, and best practices.
BIM data is the multidisciplinary datasets contained in a Building Information Model (BIM) that enrich projects with useful information.
This data is structured and non-graphical, consisting of physical and abstract properties of objects within the model. Each object is represented as a table, with properties as columns, and objects relate to one another in a similar way to a relational database.
BIM data is needed for facility management, as it can be used for scheduling, quantity surveying, filtering, exporting to Business Intelligence software, and maintaining facilities throughout their life-cycles.
The data can also be used for clash detection, design coordination, and sustainability analysis. BIM data is essential for the seamless transition from design to construction and for managing the building’s lifecycle, ensuring that all stakeholders have access to the necessary information for efficient and effective operations.
Challenges in BIM Data Management
Managing BIM data comes with its own set of challenges.
One of the primary challenges is ensuring data consistency and accuracy across different software platforms and disciplines.
Interoperability issues can arise when exchanging data between various systems, leading to data loss or corruption. Additionally, managing access rights and ensuring data security are crucial to protecting intellectual property and maintaining project confidentiality.
Additionally, BIM models generate huge amounts of data. Managing the large volume, velocity, and variety of BIM data can be overwhelming, and it needs to be managed effectively to ensure data quality and consistency..
CAD automation issues can also complicate BIM data management. Even though it has many advantages, it also presents some challenges, which has made some businesses hesitant to adopt it. Our previous article goes into great detail about the challenges of CAD automation. To learn more, please click the link below.
Learn More: CAD Automation Hurdles: 5 Challenges You Should Be Aware of
Tools and Software for BIM Data Management
To overcome the challenges of BIM data management, various tools and software solutions have been developed. These include BIM collaboration platforms, document management systems, and cloud-based storage solutions.
BIM collaboration platforms enable real-time collaboration and data sharing among project stakeholders, while document management systems help organise and track project documents. Cloud-based storage solutions offer secure and scalable data storage, enabling easy access and sharing of BIM data across different locations and devices.
An example of this is Autodesk BIM 360. As a part of Autodesk Construction Cloud, it offers a wide range of capabilities.
Not only for data management, Autodesk BIM 360 provides an all-in-one software package including project management, safety management, design collaboration, document management, quality management, data & analytics, coordination & constructability, and cost management.
How to Choose the Right BIM Software
Choosing the right BIM (Building Information Modeling) software can help streamline your project workflow, improve collaboration among team members, and enhance overall project efficiency. Consider factors such as the software’s compatibility with your current tools, ease of use, level of support provided, and cost when making your decision.
Here are some steps to help you make an informed decision, according to BIMcorner:
- Define Your Needs: Prioritise what is really required. Identify the features that are essential for your projects.
- BIM Certification: The software certification in relation to openBIM processes is an indicator of reliability and quality, validating the use of standards and solutions based on Industry Foundation Classes (IFC).
- Specific Requirements: Consider the project’s specific requirements. These requirements are defined in documents known as EIR (Employer’s Information Requirements) and BEP (BIM Execution Plan).
- Software Performance: Check out the most important features of the software and its performance.
- License and Terms: Understand the licensing terms and conditions.
- Vendor Support: Consider the kind of support the vendor provides. Are built-in help systems, movies, or documentation readily available? What options are available for training? How does the vendor handle software updates?
- Cost Implications: Evaluate the cost implications of the software.
Remember, there is no single online solution that can give the organisation a competitive edge or is recommended by the industry’s leading BIM community.
A suitable BIM software highly depends on your individual organisation, the challenges you’re facing, and the goals they set out for the future. Software solutions should be chosen depending on the specific needs and requirements. That’s why what works for one business does not necessarily have to work for another.
Best Practices in BIM Data Management
You can effectively manage your BIM data by following several best practices. These include establishing clear data standards and protocols, defining roles and responsibilities for data management, and implementing regular data backups and archiving processes.
Conducting regular data audits and quality checks can help maintain data integrity and identify any discrepancies. Providing adequate training and support to team members is also crucial for ensuring proper data management practices are followed.
Aside from that, here are some other best practices for managing your BIM data that you can consider:
- Centralise data: Consolidate all MEP information in a centralised location, such as a common data environment (CDE), to facilitate the search, access, and update of essential data, optimising operational efficiency.
- Integrate accurate MEP data: Incorporate high-quality MEP data into manufacturing operations to ensure seamless integration of products into construction projects and minimise unplanned downtime.
- Share updated and accurate MEP data: Promote smooth collaboration between manufacturers, designers, engineers, and contractors by facilitating the sharing of updated and accurate MEP data.
- Use specialised tools: Utilise platforms like bimandco.com and Onfly to provide high-quality MEP objects in digital format, ensuring data quality and consistency and minimising errors on-site.
- Adopt a BIM execution plan: Develop a BIM execution plan (BEP) that outlines the level of detail, BIM usage, team members and their roles, and the tools used during different processes.
That’s all you need to know about BIM data management. Another part that you need to be aware of in the transition to BIM is the implementation challenges. It can be difficult to ensure all team members are properly trained and comfortable with the new technology, so ongoing support and training may be necessary. You can learn more about it by clicking the link we provided below.
Read More: BIM Implementation Challenges: 5 Things to Be Aware of
Conclusion
Effective BIM data management is essential for the success of construction and design projects. By understanding the challenges, leveraging the right tools and software, and following best practices, organisations can unlock the full potential of BIM data.
Are you looking for a reliable partner to help you navigate the complexities of BIM data management?
Look no further than BIMScaler.
As a leading provider of CAD and BIM management services, BIMScaler offers expert solutions tailored to your specific needs. With their deep industry knowledge and cutting-edge tools, BIMScaler can help you streamline your BIM data management processes, improve collaboration, and maximise the value of your BIM investments.c
