BIM and the power of data in construction

The digital transformation of the construction industry has taken immense steps forward, rapidly adopting tools and technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT). Building Information Modelling (BIM) is at the heart of this shift, enabling smarter planning, management and collaboration. By streamlining workflows and improving data-driven decision-making, BIM helps stakeholders create more efficient, valuable and sustainable ways of working that can help projects in the longer run, creating an asset within the professionals who are well-versed on the subject.

What does BIM offer?

BIM plays a key role in managing information by providing a structured methodology following the international guidelines of ISO 19650 series. It enables data and information to be scoped, planned for and processed efficiently through standardised data management and workflows.

The true power of BIM lies in its ability to create a centralised digital model of datasets, making project information easily accessible and helping teams work smarter. BIM enables the creation of a 3D model that represents the physical and functional characteristics of buildings and infrastructure such as skyscrapers, bridges, airport, inclusive and sustainable residential or commercial developments.

BIM’s multi-dimensional capabilities go beyond design (3D) to include additional data layers for a more comprehensive understanding of project or asset overview. One of the easiest ways to visualise BIM’s benefits is through the common BIM dimensions. While definitions of these dimensions can change, in principle they refer to:

• 3D – Design
• 4D – Time
• 5D – Cost
• 6D – Sustainability
• 7D – Facilities Management
• 8D – Health and Safety

Insights from our industry expert 

BIM – IoT data integration

The integration of BIM and IoT enables smarter construction and asset management, facilitating precise information handling throughout a project’s lifecycle and into the operational phase of a building.

By collecting real-time data from smart sensors, construction progress can be tracked, equipment performance monitored, and the BIM model updated instantly, providing an accurate real-time 3D visualisation. This reduces errors, optimises performance and enhances decision-making, accelerating project delivery.

Successful IoT integration within BIM creates cyber-physical systems that replicate both static and dynamic building characteristics. This real-time connectivity between virtual and physical counterparts enables the development of smart buildings and cities for a more sustainable, effective and interactive built environment.

Beyond the construction phase, this innovation holds great potential for optimising technological and financial performance with dynamic and real-time operational data enabling more accurate and efficient building operations management.

Leveraging BIM’s full potential

BIM provides a range of benefits, including:

• Efficient and secure information management processes
• Smoother collaboration with your project stakeholders
• Better decision-making with 3D visualization
• Optimised asset and facility management over the entire life cycle
• More accurate cost predictability and improved scheduling
• Less project errors and clashes
• Optimised design techniques
• Improved sustainability with reduced energy consumption

Advance your career with RICS BIM training

The digitalisation of construction is fast becoming today’s reality. Stay ahead by leveraging BIM to its full potential in your projects. To remain compliant with the latest BIM requirements, the RICS Certificate in Building Information Modelling (BIM) is the right training for you, providing practical knowledge at the highest standards.

This 10-month online training programme is ideal for project managers, architects, quantity surveyors, engineers, building surveyors, building control and digital construction professionals looking to enhance their BIM capabilities and unlock global opportunities, from BIM Coordinator to Management positions.