Building Information Modelling is revolutionising the construction lifecycle

In conversation with Prisila, Correspondent, Asia Business outlook Magazine. Harsh shares his about the Key considerations for ensuring data security and integrity when using BIM.

Harsh Pareek is a senior leader with over 22 years of experience in building and leading multicultural teams in PAN India roles. Extensive experience working across the value chain with a track record of building strategy, driving organizational transformation and business turnaround. His key skills include cloud transformation, construction technologies, and fostering greater agility in the digital era.

BIM contribute to enhanced sustainability in construction projects

Building information modeling (BIM) has long been at the cutting edge of design/build technology, playing a crucial role in modern construction by revolutionizing the way projects are planned, designed, executed, and managed. It is only natural that it can play an important role in achieving the goals of sustainable construction. It allows for greater transparency during design phase, more efficiency during design and construction phase and enhanced control during operation phase.

BIM allows for a highly transparent process from day one: as design data is added to a shared model each stakeholder in a project can quickly and easily access a full, real-time summary of what products and materials are being proposed, how they will be fabricated and installed, and what can be expected as to their performance post-construction. This transparency enables stakeholders to provide their knowledge and experience during the building's design phase, making it more sustainable by reducing material waste and costs, thereby making it more environmentally-responsible.

The use of BIM allows for easy sharing and collaboration on 3D virtual prototypes, used for real-time testing of construction logic and sequencing. From estimating to ongoing project management, every step in the design and construction workflow is reviewed and enhanced when BIM is integrated. Its improvements can be witnessed in improvements in speed of construction, efficiency in cost saving in processes like prefabrication, reduction in errors, reduction in crew redundancy, etc.

With the high level of detail and ease of share ability inherent to the 3D models created using BIM, a wealth of operational data and insight can be passed along to the building owner and manager, improving their ability to run the building at its maximum potential, after the construction of the building is complete.

But, perhaps the most important improvement we see with the full adoption of BIM is the positive impact it has on sustainability throughout the entire construction workflow. Every step of the process where BIM saves time, improves efficiency, enhances design, and reduces errors, provides a quantifiable opportunity for the building’s lifelong environmental impact to be reduced. Proactive construction professionals are taking advantage of this benefit of the BIM process by including long-term, environmentally-conscious operational recommendations and maintenance schedules in their completed project parameters. In this respect, BIM thoroughly supports the entire philosophy behind sustainable construction.

Key considerations for ensuring data security and integrity when using BIM

BIM is transforming the way that the architecture, construction, engineering and facilities management industries work together. This transformation is founded on shared information models, which will be developed and maintained across the lifecycle of the building or infrastructure. Hence, a number of new risks are inherent in the adoption of BIM, considerations must be prioritized to ensure data security and integrity in the implementation of the collaborative processes and systems.

Securing data integrity and maintaining confidentiality within BIM environments, especially due to the presence of sensitive project information, demands a comprehensive approach to cybersecurity. Performing stringent risk analysis and rethinking access control mechanisms is the primary step in ensuring data security in any digitally integrated system, like the BIM.  Robust authentication methods like multi-factor authentication should be employed to bolster user verification. Role-based permissions should be smartly assigned to limit access to essential data and functionalities based on job roles, minimizing the risk of unauthorized data exposure.

Encryption is the cornerstone of data protection. Employing end-to-end encryption for data in transit and strong encryption for data at rest safeguards information from interception and compromise. To counter potential vulnerabilities, regular software updates and continuous monitoring should be done which helps detect unusual activities that might indicate a security breach.

Ultimately, safeguarding sensitive BIM data demands a multi-faceted strategy encompassing technical, procedural, and human-centric measures. By smartly considering these factors, any organization can navigate the complex landscape of BIM while upholding data security and integrity.

BIM help in reducing errors and conflicts during the design and construction phases

Building Information Modeling (BIM) plays a pivotal role in minimizing errors and conflicts throughout the design and construction phases by fostering a comprehensive and collaborative approach to building projects. One of the primary ways BIM achieves this is by providing a centralized digital platform that enables various stakeholders to work together seamlessly and access accurate, up-to-date project information.

By promoting exclusive design and collaborative decision-making, BIM fosters an environment where errors and conflicts can be addressed in the early stages, where they are considerably less costly and less time-consuming to rectify. This means that the project team can collectively engage in efficient troubleshooting and conflict resolution, preventing issues from snowballing into major setbacks.

BIM's core strength lies in its ability to provide a detailed 3D visualization of the building, allowing project teams to spot design flaws and conflicts early on. The automated clash detection tools within BIM identify issues between various building components, such as structural elements and mechanical systems, enabling proactive resolution before construction begins.

But its capabilities do not end at mere conflict detection. It also empowers project teams to tackle these issues head-on. Through its enhanced visualization capabilities, BIM transforms complex project data into accessible and understandable visual representations. This means that conflicts related to scheduling and budgeting, typically hidden within a labyrinth of numbers and plans, can also be spotted with ease.

Additionally, BIM enhances the ability to track changes and revisions. Any modifications made to the BIM model are automatically updated across all project documents, creating a more efficient and error-free construction process that leads to overall success.

"Safeguarding sensitive BIM data demands a multi-faceted strategy encompassing technical, procedural, and human-centric measures."

Strategies should construction firms adopt to transition from traditional methods to BIM-based workflows effectively

Transitioning from traditional construction methods to BIM-based workflows requires a well-planned and comprehensive strategy to ensure a smooth and successful adoption. The foremost in this is comprehensive research about BIM, BIM-aided solutions, the cost, time and training involved.

A very crucial aspect of BIM adoption is to invest in the right technology and software. It relies on specialized software for design, modeling, and collaboration. Construction firms should carefully evaluate their needs, budget, and staff capabilities to select the most suitable BIM.

Regular training and ongoing support are equally essential for successful adoption. Continuous learning and assistance from experts can help employees overcome challenges and make the most of BIM capabilities.  Additionally, it is important to ensure that data is structured and organized in a way that facilitates easy retrieval and analysis. Integrating BIM with other project management tools and systems can enhance overall project efficiency.

BIM is incredibly versatile and, therefore, requires a wide variety of skill sets in order for its value to become fully realized. Tekla software trial by Trimble is a strategic move for construction teams looking to harness its capabilities effectively. Starting small with pilot projects allows a team to learn and adjust gradually, minimizing any potential disruptions. These trials serve as a valuable testing ground for Tekla's features, enabling project stakeholders to assess its suitability for larger and more complex problems.

Regulatory and industry standards impact the adoption and implementation of BIM in construction projects?

BIM in the construction industry is profoundly influenced by regulatory and industry standards, which play a pivotal role in shaping its adoption and implementation. In numerous countries, including India, these regulations serve as catalysts for promoting BIM. A noteworthy example is the Indian government's mandate for BIM utilization in public infrastructure projects. This directive compels construction firms to integrate BIM methodologies and tools into their workflows, not only ensuring compliance with legal requirements but also stimulating the industry to harness the manifold benefits of BIM.

BIM's significance extends beyond regulatory compliance; it closely aligns with the principles of Industry 4.0. Industry 4.0 underscores the integration of digital technologies, automation, and data-driven decision-making across various sectors, including construction. BIM, functioning as a digital powerhouse for construction projects, perfectly dovetails with this global paradigm shift toward technologically driven practices.

India's approach mirrors the broader global trend known as Industry 4.0. This initiative emphasizes the infusion of digital technologies into industries, and BIM assumes a pivotal role by encompassing digitalization, automation, and data-driven decision-making within the construction sector. The Indian government's proactive stance on technology adoption and alignment with Industry 4.0 principles further underscores the critical role of BIM in enhancing project efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability. This not only fosters wider adoption but also emphasizes the indispensable role of regulatory and industry standards in shaping the future of construction practices, not just in India but worldwide.

Governments and local authorities worldwide are recognizing the potential benefits of BIM in improving project efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing sustainability. From public projects to sustainable building practices and urban development, we see India embrace BIM adoption. In line with India's Smart City initiatives, BIM is now increasingly used to plan, design, and manage infrastructure in urban areas.

Apart from this, India has a strong focus on sustainable construction, aligning with the government's urban development goals.  BIM also plays a role in achieving green building certifications like LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and GRIHA (Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment). These certifications require adherence to specific standards and BIM can help streamline the process.

In essence, regulatory and industry standards wield a profound influence over the adoption and implementation of BIM in construction projects. They serve as incentives for driving compliance, fostering efficiency, and ensuring quality assurance. Construction firms that proactively embrace these standards are poised to reap the rewards of improved project outcomes, streamlined processes, and enhanced collaboration.