While discussing building information modeling (BIM) with any production home builder, you are likely to hear the same argument echoed from many offices throughout the building, "We don't need software that advanced." However, contrary to the opinions of many professionals, BIM offers a wide array of features that can be used to maximize profitability.
BIM software was created to streamline the entire construction management process, not just the CAD department as many home builders believe. BIM software is often viewed as CAD software with rendering capabilities --- which leads many users to ignore the more complex features of the software. A department altering, top-down approach is required for production home builders to effectively utilize all of the features that BIM software has to offer.
Why Don't all Professionals Agree?
Drafters, designers, estimators, purchasers, and administrators often argue against the use of BIM software in production home building. However, the ugly truth is, they either don't understand the software, or don't want to learn it. A program like Revit 2020 threatens to replace more than just AutoCAD, and professionals must prepare to adapt.
In an ideal situation, estimators and decorators would work much more closely with the CAD department to help add information into the model. Work-sharing capabilities allow all parties to modify the model at the same time to update items within their area of expertise. This approach eliminates a plethora of paperwork and emails, as there is only one source of information - the model.
The full Revit suite also provides a .NET API that can be utilized to automate workflow between departments, without forcing all parties to actually work inside Revit. Project parameters and variables can be imported and exported from excel files to provide seamless communication between departments and software - with far fewer opportunities for a human to misread a document and input the wrong information.
If the software is only going to be used as a basic CAD software with rendering capabilities, the much more economical LT Suite can be used. The biggest complication a builder may have with Revit LT, would be the lack of design option capabilities, but this can be overcame other ways. Full product comparison coming soon.
Collaboration Between Departments
If all departments work together, then they will all be required to do less work. However, if BIM software is treated like any other CAD software, drafters will be forced to learn how to be estimators, purchasers, decorators, and carpenters. The drafters will have to maintain a separate database, that includes (constantly changing) information from all departments. Eliminating this redundancy will save time, and greatly reduce errors from miscommunications.
Those who argue that using BIM software takes longer to use than old fashioned AutoCAD, do not understand that the scope has changed. You can no longer compare the time it takes to create a CAD master to the time it takes a drafter to draw. You must also consider the time for estimating and purchasing to create their assemblies, and import the information.
When the whole team works on building the same model, everyone saves a little time. And with all eyes on the same document (instead of a document they made themselves) everyone has an opportunity to validate the accuracy of the model before the documents are released.
A Well-Oiled Machine
Drafters build the model, all products, and develop final construction drawings. Purchasing negotiates products and labor cost. Estimators compute construction cost and recommend adjustments for future models. Decorators apply finishes and options to customer specific drawings.
Because switching to BIM software would require virtually all departments to slightly alter their day-to-day routine, the shift from CAD into BIM may be one that comes when the employees are ready. Expect push-back from the old professionals that don't want to learn new tricks, but if the software is utilized properly, all departments can save time and improve the accuracy of their work.
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