Using BIM to Improve Processes

The construction technology for the BIM (building information modeling) process continues to get better and better as time progresses, and construction companies continue to find new ways to improve the process. While some construction firms use 3D models to provide a good visual representation for the owner, others in the industry are looking even further to 4D scheduling and 5D estimating.

While contractors continue to push the BIM envelope, technology providers play an enabling role in helping improve the process—namely by creating new modules and features to help improve the technology for the industry. While BIM is already a powerful tool in the construction industry, upgrades are hitting the market all the time.

One recent example is the new version of the Vico Office Suite from construction software and services provider, Vico Software, www.vicosoftware.com, Boulder, Colo.

Vico Office enables users to launch a BIM authoring application that can then be used to perform a variety of functions including on-site production control, quantity takeoffs, model-based estimating and scheduling, as well as a constructability analysis.

The new version of Vico Office contains a number of enhancements such as interoperability with a wider range of BIM-authoring systems, which enables users to import CAD-Duct and IFC file formats.

The software can be used to convert any system used for cost estimating into a BIM-based system. Additionally, users have complete visibility into any changes made to a project in regards to system cost, quantities, and unit prices, and they can even analyze the differences in names of takeoff items used at different points in a project or separate projects.

Vico Office also comes with a Constructability Manager that allows users to perform clash detection, compare different models, as well as identify issues regarding the constructability of a project.

While BIM is a great tool for managing information about a building as it is being built, the technology also serves as an effective way to help contractors speed up processes. From 3D modeling to 5D estimating, there are a number of new capabilities contractors can do to enable the BIM process.