A must-know explanation of Building Information Modeling (BIM)
Building Information Modeling (BIM) has become common in the fields of Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC). Popular in the United States since 2003, this technology has rapidly developed until 2009 and received positive responses in Indonesia due to various benefits offered in the AEC field. Through this article, we will further explain what Building Information Modeling (BIM) is and its benefits.

What is Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Its Characteristics?
Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a technology approach that integrates all information related to construction projects into a 3-dimensional model. To provide a clearer picture, there are several characteristics of BIM, including:
- BIM involves the design and creation of building assets using 3D representations of physical and functional attributes.
- BIM encompasses not only the creation of 3D models but also simultaneous model and data creation processes that are collaborated with stakeholders from planning, design, fabrication, construction, to maintenance stages.
- BIM involves the creation of digital datasets to form 3D models with integrated information in a collaborative environment known as the Common Data Environment (CDE).
In general, the utilization of BIM technology can save time, costs, and labor. Not only focusing on 3-dimensional models, BIM also emphasizes the development and management of information through collaboration to achieve efficient construction goals. This is done to minimize errors or conflicts in information among various parties.
Benefits of Building Information Modeling (BIM)?
There are several benefits of implementing Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology, including:
- Enhancing Productivity through Coordination and Information Collaboration
Effective coordination among stakeholders such as project owners, architects, contractors, and engineers, supported by strategic collaboration, can expedite the construction process and minimize design errors and conflicts. BIM applications consolidate all data into a digital model, thus improving communication efficiency and collaboration among teams.
- Optimizing Resources (Cost, Time, and Human Resources)
3D modeling by BIM is considered highly accurate, allowing for more precise and realistic cost and time calculations. Efficient planning helps optimize the use of required resources, including costs, time, and labor.
- Producing Technical Drawings More Accurately and Quickly
In BIM applications, every object drawn has complete information, including materials, dimensions, and thickness. This information is directly represented in 3D, which speeds up the production of technical drawings. Additionally, BIM applications are used throughout massing, conceptualization, production, and the creation of Bills of Quantity (BQ).
- Minimizing Variation Orders (VO)
Variation Orders (VO) are changes or modifications made to construction work, which necessitate cost and time adjustments, potentially affecting project execution. With BIM, potential errors or discrepancies can be identified early, thus reducing sudden changes that trigger Variation Orders (VO).
Dimensions of Building Information Modeling (BIM)?
The dimensions of BIM are not limited to 3D representation alone, they can extend up to 7D. 3D can visualize construction project outputs and show existing conditions. 4D integrates time dimension or scheduling, while 5D adds the overall cost dimension. 6D includes sustainability aspects, including collision detection and energy analysis. Meanwhile, 7D is for applying facility management, which includes information about building operations and maintenance.
There you have it, some comprehensive explanations about Building Information Modeling (BIM). The utilization of BIM technology plays a significant role in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry. BIM technology can be the right choice to facilitate construction work starting from building design, construction, and integrated management.
Therefore, consult your project needs with PT Semesta Konstruksi Persada, a construction company that provides the best solutions according to client needs.