The construction industry's push towards digital is happening, with or without you. And if you're a contractor, you know how vital it is to embrace digital tools, and BIM is no exception. If you want to thrive in construction's digital future, you need BIM. So the big question is, should you outsource your BIM work to a dedicated team of BIM experts or build an in-house team? Shft takes the headache out of helping contractors, specialist trades, and asset owners achieve their digital goals and meet new digital responsibilities without having to do it themselves.

BIM Myths Debunked

Common BIM Myths Debunked in Construction. Hands up if you've ever shared a BIM fact only to then feel embarrassed when you found out the information was wrong and it was actually a BIM myth or common BIM misconception… It's a story we hear time and again—but not for much longer. In this blog, Shft helps put an end to the misconceptions, misinformation, and inaccuracies surrounding BIM. To this end, we've rounded up—and corrected—six of the most common BIM myths so you can truly understand why BIM is important in architecture, engineering and construction.

Discover the truth behind Building Information Modelling (BIM) and get clear on some common BIM myths and misconceptions.

BIM Myths Debunked

 

Hands up if you’ve ever shared a BIM fact only to then feel embarrassed when you found out the information was wrong and it was actually a BIM myth or common BIM misconception…

It’s a story we hear time and again—but not for much longer. 

Let’s put an end to the misconceptions, misinformation, and inaccuracies surrounding BIM. To this end, we’ve rounded up—and corrected—six of the most common BIM myths so you can truly understand why BIM is important in architecture, engineering and construction. 

For a broader definition of BIM, you can take a look at our other blog post right here to understand what Building Information Modelling really is.

Myth: BIM is merely 3D modelling

Most people think of BIM as 3D modelling, but that’s not entirely true. In fact, the word ‘modelling’ is the cause of much confusion. In BIM, 3D models are solely part of a much larger process that manages vast amounts of important project information. This creates a more collaborative way of working and enables different team members to meet demanding project deadlines.

Here at Shft HQ, BIM is a crucial tool for transforming the construction industry from one dependent on timestamped documentation to one propelled by data. The emphasis here is on rich data, which provides project teams with the whole picture as opposed to just a snapshot.

Misconception: BIM is a type of software

No, BIM is not a kind of software.

Sure, there are different software tools on the market, such as Revit and Archicad, that can enable professionals in the architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) sector to share information more effectively. However, simply using this software does not automatically mean you are doing BIM. This is a common BIM misconception. While software undoubtedly plays a part, BIM is much bigger than a digital tool or technology.

Instead, BIM is a process or a methodology that a range of software can support.

Fallacy: BIM is only for architects

Architects can—and do—use BIM. 60 per cent of BIM-reliant architects report using BIM for over half of their projects, with a total of 89 per cent forecast by 2024. 

That said, BIM is for everyone in the AEC industry, not just architects. MEP consultants, structural engineers, civil engineers, interior designers, and contractors can all use BIM to collaborate more efficiently, save time, eliminate errors and optimise project outputs.

Misconception: BIM is expensive

Another common BIM misconception is that its implementation carries a high cost and involves a significant investment. Of course, there are some expected upfront costs associated with BIM, including software licensing, computer requirements, and staff training, as there invariably are when changing historic working practices. However, your initial BIM set-up does not need to cost the earth.

To reject BIM because you believe it is too expensive is incredibly short-sighted—not least because BIM can pay for itself in the first year and will save you money in the long run.

Myth: BIM is a fad

Some still view BIM as a short-term trend, but the reality is that BIM is here to stay. In fact, those who have transitioned to BIM never go back. That’s because BIM is not a fad but, rather, a natural evolution of the AEC industry that offers innumerable advantages.

Our advice? Don’t get left behind out of fear of change.

BIM offers many benefits that make it a valuable tool for professionals in the AEC industry—particularly for contractors in construction, in our own experience. Soon, it will be regarded as’ business as usual’.

Fallacy: BIM is yet another thing to add to my busy schedule

Another BIM myth is that it takes time to implement and is more of a hindrance than a help. This is a significant oversight.

Yes, BIM will, initially, take time to implement and get to grips with. But the same could be said for any new way of working. BIM enhances project workflows and should not be seen as an obstacle to the existing structure of your organisation or project.

Instead, BIM has the power to streamline processes and enhance productivity for all AEC professionals.

 

If you want to learn more about BIM, or are a contractor looking to ‘Shft’ your BIM concerns, schedule a call with us today. We look forward to hearing from you: maketheshft.digital/contact#contact

 

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Like everything, construction is going digital. We take the headache out of helping construction companies achieve their digital goals and meet new digital responsibilities without having to do it themselves.