Building information modelling (BIM): now and beyond

TLDR

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a revolutionary technology and process reshaping the Architecture‑Engineering‑Construction industry. This paper reviews BIM’s core concepts, lifecycle applications, stakeholder benefits, risks, barriers, and future trends through case studies. BIM’s technology component visualizes projects in a simulated environment to detect issues, while its process component fosters collaboration and role integration among stakeholders.

Abstract

Building Information Modeling (BIM), also called n-D Modeling or Virtual Prototyping Technology, is a revolutionary development that is quickly reshaping the Architecture-Engineering-Construction (AEC) industry. BIM is both a technology and a process. The technology component of BIM helps project stakeholders to visualize what is to be built in a simulated environment to identify any potential design, construction or operational issues. The process component enables close collaboration and encourages integration of the roles of all stakeholders on a project. The paper presents an overview of BIM with focus on its core concepts, applications in the project life cycle and benefits for project stakeholders with the help of case studies. The paper also elaborates risks and barriers to BIM implementation and future trends.