Until recently, building information modeling (BIM) has been the domain of big builders. But small- and mid-sized firms are now starting to realize the benefits of using BIM software tools.

BIM, allows builders, contractors, architects, designers, and anyone else involved in the home-building process to generate sophisticated 3D digital models of a home

The models aren’t just a 3D version of the 2D drawings though; they are made up of a collection of parametric objects – computerized versions of real-world items, such as wall panels, windows, doors, roof trusses, and so on – that contain all relevant underlying data (e.g, material, dimension, cost, energy performance, and even product availability) that allow builders, designers, and buyers to make informed decisions.