BIM under discussion

From 3D modeling and BIM planning to management and (overall) coordination: In the following interview, our BIM coordinators Anke Mau and Daniel Dahlke provide insights into how Building Information Modelling is implemented and what visions the engineering team has.

Why BIM?

Anke: First of all, it must be noted that BIM is not an end in itself! Precisely because construction projects are becoming significantly more complex - extensive technical building services, ventilation systems, energy efficiency calculations, recording materials for a building resource passport, etc. - BIM creates transparency through the 3D representation and the additional information. This allows discrepancies to be identified at an early stage and plans to be adjusted.

What is the difference between 3D and BIM?

Daniel: 3D is the representation of pure geometry, while BIM enriches the geometry with all relevant information. It is often argued that BIM represents a considerable amount of extra work because I don't create a plan using CAD software as I used to. This is not true, because working with the model goes far beyond plan derivation.

Anke: For example, I cannot yet make a reasonable quantity takeoff with 3D if the components are not differentiated between reinforced concrete, masonry, wood or steel!

How does BIM change the way we work?

Anke: I think in the 4th dimension right from the start! In principle, the requirements that were previously distributed on plans and various Excel tables are brought together. Now we merge the respective models into a coordination model as early as the design planning stage and can detect collisions with the help of a model checker.

How do you achieve a successful "BIM workflow"?

Daniel: In addition to the actual model-based planning, we are also expanding a second pillar, basically a completely new professional field: BIM management and BIM coordination, in which we support the actual planning process and coordinate the interfaces.

Anke: We use our expertise for projects in which we oversee the structural design on the one hand and for measures in which we exclusively design the BIM process on the other. The latter is the case, for example, at the Kampnagel performance and event venue in Hamburg, where we are coordinating the specialist planning models.

How do you go about BIM management and what is the benefit for the client?

Anke: We start by defining the content and objectives that the BIM model should reflect. This is where we advise the client and draw up individual information requirements. The added value for the client results from the combination of our many years of experience at the practical level - in the construction processes - and in-depth technical knowledge of BIM.

Daniel: With BIM, clients have a deep insight into their construction projects and can use digital methods in future management.

Where is there still room for improvement?

Daniel: BIM must be on the construction site! Unfortunately, the necessary prerequisites are still lacking - starting with reliable network reception ...

Anke: We repeatedly hear that the potential of the BIM method is not yet fully recognized. Its benefits extend across the entire life cycle: from complete planning to construction and long-term facility management. There are still so many untapped opportunities here, e.g. in terms of pre-production, maintenance planning, which can be queried via QR codes, etc.

What is the vision of Trebes?

Anke: At our sites, we want to plan exclusively model-based, paperless - even during execution planning! We want to ensure that all information is available on the construction site and that all the possibilities provided by the model are used through optimal coordination. We are already working closely with software companies to further increase the practicality of the programs.