Building Information Modelling (BIM) is transforming the way buildings are designed to perform throughout their entire life cycle. BIM is a digital model tool that integrates all the information related to a construction project from its design phase to the management years after the construction.
It allows any aspect of a design’s performance to be simulated and assessed before it is built, making the understanding of the design easier and more complete. BIM is not simply a 3D software, but is a process that facilitates the sharing of information among all the professionals involved throughout the whole construction project.
SBS position paper on BIM
Considering the increasing importance of BIM for the construction industry, Small Business Standards (SBS) – the association representing SMEs in standardisation – released a position paper about BIM in December 2015.
The position paper explains the specific objectives that will drive the work of SBS in its standardisation activities in the CEN Technical Committee 442 on BIM. An EBC expert will represent SBS in this Technical Committee.
Some of the main points of the position:
- The development of standards and specifications on BIM should suit the specificities small and medium-enterprises, which represent 99.9% of the construction sector
- To do so, the existing digital tools should be simplified. Training is another key component for SME entrepreneurs to take up a widespread use of BIM.
- Costs of both training and tool should be accessible for SMEs.
- Not only should BIM apply to building of exceptional nature, but also to traditional buildings. It would also be interesting to explore its application to renovation works, which is a major market for SMEs