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In its most basic form, building information modeling (BIM) is
the move from analog to digital design and construction. It is a
model-based technology linked with a database of project
information. And it is poised to fundamentally change the way
projects are built and the way project stakeholders communicate
with each other.
In recent years, Schinnerer has seen an increased use of project
collaboration systems that foster interaction between team members.
Over the last decade, firms have migrated to electronic drafting,
view coordination, document generation, and schedule creation.
These changes, however, are minor compared to the coming age of
BIM.
Integrating the Design Process
Radically transforming the way designs are created, communicated,
and constructed, BIM is not just the electronic transfer of paper
documents. It greatly increases the ability to control and
manipulate data and information in an unprecedented way and in an
interoperable format. The move from paper-centric information to
parametric, model-based information means that the digital design
can be used for cost estimations, simulations, scheduling, energy
analysis, structural design, GIS integration, fabrication,
erection, and facilities management.
Building models embedded with detailed information about a
construction project are far beyond the capabilities of most design
firms at present. These models are not just the electronic drafting
tools that firms now think of as digital practice, nor are they
three-dimensional renderings with separate construction documents.
The move to an integrated, parametric, and object-based system
should lead to dramatic changes in design and construction as well
as, possibly, compensation and risk allocation.
Increasing Value Through Shared Information
The result of the design process is not just a creation of the
design. A building information model is a repository for digital,
three-dimensional information and data generated by the design
process and simulations—it’s the design, fabrication
information, erection instructions, and project management
logistics in one database. The data model will exist for the life
of a building and can be used to manage the client’s
asset.
Because the true benefit of BIM is to the project owner, the push
to use BIM will most likely be a client-driven development. The
value is in the significant building efficiencies and initial cost
savings and extends to the operations and maintenance of the
facility.
Based on expert studies, other benefits of BIM include reduced
risks, improved productivity, streamlined production, maintenance
of design intent, and facilitation of quality control through clear
communication and sophisticated analytical tools.
Addressing Legal Exposures
The idea of parametric modeling as the design and construction
database is a difficult one to examine from practice and
insurance-coverage perspectives. Firms will have increasing
challenges as they realize that they are moving from a physical
model—and hard-copy plans and specifications—to the
primary information generators for a digital database.
As firms move from an analog system (where original source material
is relatively easy to identify and control), through our present
“semi-integrated” system, to what could be called the
“super-integrated” future, those firms will have to deal
with new business rules and possibly unknown liability
exposures.
Taking Charge of the Process
Professional service firms should be in control of the information
source. As integration of design and construction develops,
protecting public health, safety, and welfare becomes more
critical. The rationale for having a licensed professional in
charge makes increasing sense. The professions, however, must
become capable of monitoring and guiding the inevitable
“looping” of design and construction features to conform
with the intent, design constraints, and requirements of the
design.
Bringing the Future—Slowly
The construction industry as a whole (or the law) will have to deal
with some significant issues:
• Definition of professional services and the design
process
• Ownership and control of the digital information
• Regulation or control of revisions to modeling
information
• Conformity of completed construction to the model
• Relationships of the various parties with concurrent design
and construction authority
• Risk that goes with any investment by the stakeholders
• Payment for the creative efforts, control of information,
and assumed or assigned risks.
Professional liability exposures seem to be only one small part of
the whole definition of design and construction completed using
BIM. This will be a rapidly evolving issue as BIM leads to an even
more complex phase of design, construction, and operation.
Originally published in “Guidelines for Improving
Practice”, Vol. XXXV No. 2. Reprinted with permission of
Victor O. Schinnerer & Company Inc.
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