Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a technology that allows projects to be designed parametrically. Using this technology provides numerous advantages over traditional Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD). The Kenneth F. Sullivan Co. utilizes an industry standard known as Autodesk® REVIT®. The REVIT® series of software allows us to design in up to five dimensions (three spatial dimensions or 3D, time, and cost). It also allows for a much more intuitive design process and easier alterations to a design that is already in progress.
There is a very good chance that BIM may be the right choice for your upcoming project. Please feel free to look over the advantages of using BIM below or we recommend that you visit Autodesk's website for their more detailed explanation of Building Information Modeling.
Advantages
BIM offers advantages to clients, contractors, subcontractors, and designers. Below you can see a table outlining the advantages to all parties involved:
Owners
Time and cost savings by eliminating flawed designs not discovered until mid-project.
Phasing and visualizations that can be passed on to potential renters or investors in a property.
Easy 3D Visualization of the project from any angle or with any lens.
Peace of mind knowing that a what you see on paper will be what your final product looks like.
A more intuitive design process that allows owners to physically see progress in a design.
Contractors and Subcontractors
Complete plans and drawings that eliminate or reduce Requests for Information (RFI's).
Scheduling diagrams that can help determine project duration.
Phasing and quantity diagrams that can help estimate project costs.
Identifies conflicts between subcontractors and enables involved parties to resolve them before they ever happen.
3D visualizations of what the final space will look like to help with conceptual estimating.
Designers
Time savings in many different forms.
Allows the owner and designer to communicate about designs without expensive rendering consultants.
Simpler workflow that allows for manipulating the design throughout the entire project.
A competitive edge on the rest of the industry, which is often slow to change.
Choosing the Right Tool
Although BIM is at the forefront of design technologies, there is still great value in more traditional drafting techniques such as Computer-Aided Design (CAD). Autodesk® AutoCAD® is an industry standard that the Kenneth F. Sullivan Company has used for many years. At times, this technology may be better suited to complete your design needs than a BIM technology such as REVIT. These times include, but are not limited to:
If a project has existing plans in CAD and those plans can be used as a starting point for the new design.
If a project has limited design work that could be more quickly completed in CAD.
If a project will be a build-out or addition to a shell project with plans already completed in CAD.
The owner is familiar with and prefers to use CAD.
The Kenneth F. Sullivan Co. is committed to providing our clients with satisfaction during all phases of your project. We promise to not waste time, money, or other resources on something that your project does not require. Such practices result in unsatisfied clients with cost overruns.
More Information
Please feel free to contact us for more information on BIM or other design options, please contact us.
