Dive Brief:

• Architecture, engineering and construction firms stand to gain competitive advantages if they implement building information modeling throughout their processes.
• BIM makes project details more accessible for everyone involved and does it in near real time.
• BIM can start helping at the beginning of a project by generating data to guide GIS-equipped machinery through the site-preparation process, and at the end by allowing transmission of 3-D details that will help owners in out-years — including when they want to renovate.

Dive Insight:

Blogger Jonas N. Salih says professionals who may doubt BIM's viability should understand that the software just incorporates things learned throughout years of construction. It doesn't change the basics, it just automates them. Salih, who is Australian, says that it is estimated that BIM has reduced construction costs in the Brisbane area by 5% to 10%.