A Primer on Open BIM and its Advantages

The construction industry is progressing towards a more sustainable and smart building process using technology and expert professionals. Today, over 40% construction companies use construction software like BIM 360, Revit, NavisWorks, etc. that helps devise and design a more efficient and effective building plan.

Building Information Modeling is construction software that allows architectural, engineering and construction (AEC) firms to generate and manage the digital representation of the functional and physical characteristics of infrastructure. The digital data is supported by tools and technologies which gives access to model information from conceptual stages to the decision-making stage and till the construction and the building is functional.

BI models are files that are not always I proprietary formats and or contain proprietary data that can be extracted, exchanged or networked to support decision-making regarding a built infrastructure. All of this information is shared through either openBIM or closeBIM format.

What is OpenBIM? It is a format that allows each and every project member the free access to information model without hampering the native design. OpenBIM offers a universal approach to collaborate with design and operate buildings based on open standards like IFC, BCF and others. But why is OpenBIM so important?

Supports Open Workflow: Construction professionals need to have a transparent, open workflow such that the project members can participate in the process regardless of the software tools they use, and openBIM allows the same without any hassle.
Creates a Common Language: OpenBIM is a language that creates a common ground by producing a common language for widely referenced processes. This will enable the construction industry and its stakeholders such as government and MEP (mechanical, engineering and plumbing) contractors to procure projects with transparent commercial engagement, comparable service evaluation and assured data quality.
Endures Project Data: Construction companies require data that is endured and that can be used throughout the building life cycle, and helps avoid multiple inputs of the same data and any consequential error.
Energizes with exact user demand searches: With OpenBIM the online product supply side is energized with more exact user demand searches, and further delivers the product data directly into the BIM.

Why should you use openBIM format?

OpenBIM fits all purpose: With OpenBIM the project manager can produce the best solution to any kind of construction problem using one open communication protocol which selects products upon their capability and not their source.
Competition: OpenBIM will allow the stakeholders to work without being disturbed from the continuous development in the market, as achieving a competitive advantage is the primary motto.
Application: OpenBIM allows a significant number of stakeholders using a variety of tools to communicate and share information that makes absolute business sense.

Conclusion:

The application of OpenBIM will make create transparency, open workflow environment and will allow project members to participate in the work process & progress regardless of the software tools they are using. Interesting point is, the information can be accessed and made a copy of but the master data cannot be altered by any other member except the master sheet holder. Simply, the OpenBIM format model shared is viewable, measurable and usable, and protected.

TechnoStruct LLP is a leading name in the architecture, engineering and construction industry and is amongst the top BIM service providers in California. It specializes in providing mechanical and engineering solutions, designing, solar engineering solutions, and construction solutions to commercial projects across industries, with a diversified range of services including but not limited to BIM, MEP engineering and designs, Mechanical Subcontractor, Solar, Electrical Subcontractor, and many more.