Sequencing conflicts (activities that can't happen simultaneously)
Site logistics issues (crane positioning, material storage)
Critical path dependencies
Construction milestones and phasing
For complex projects like high-rise buildings or infrastructure, 4D visualization helps general contractors communicate the construction plan to stakeholders and optimize the build sequence.
BIM models contain quantity data that can be automatically extracted for cost estimation.
What are the main BIM dimensions (3D to 7D)?
3D: Geometric and spatial design
4D: Construction scheduling
5D: Cost estimation and budgeting
6D: Sustainability and energy performance
7D: Facility management and operational optimization
9.
All of the information gathered— from conception to completion— isn’t just stored, it’s actionable.
The data can be used to improve accuracy, express design intent from the office to the field, improve knowledge transfer from stakeholder to stakeholder, reduce change orders and field coordination problems, and provide insight into existing buildings for renovation projects later on.
How is BIM information shared?
This information in a BIM model is shared through a mutually accessible online space known as a common data environment (CDE), and the data collected is referred to as an 'information model'.
This helps teams anticipate service needs, schedule maintenance proactively, and extend asset life — reducing downtime and emergency repairs.
6. Unlike simple 3D modeling tools like SketchUp or Rhino, BIM contains embedded information essential for the entire project lifecycle—from design through construction to facility management.
BIM integrates seamlessly with CAFM (Computer-Aided Facility Management) and CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management Systems). This allows the model to remain consistent and coordinated throughout the entire process so that structural engineers, architects, MEP engineers, designers, project managers, and contractors can work in a more collaborative environment.
Example of a BIM object: Optibal W6 ball valve with Actuator - downloaded from the manufacturer and used by plumbing engineers in their BIM models.
The “I” in BIM
BIM, as a whole, refers to the process of all parties involved in the construction and lifecycle management of built assets, working collaboratively and sharing data.
Now, BIM (Building Information Modeling) is the standard— but it is much more than just a 3D model.
BIM objects
BIM objects, the components that make up a BIM model, are intelligent, have geometry, and store data. Civil consultants provide site context—terrain, roads, utilities—ensuring the design fits the real-world context.
Regulatory Compliance: In Singapore, BIM data captured in IFC+SG enables automated code checking by agencies.
Below are brief descriptions of the first three levels and an explanation of what criteria is involved at each stage.
Level 0 BIM: paper-based drawings + zero collaboration
Level 0 BIM refers to not operating collaboratively at all. W
When BIM is connected to real-time building performance systems, it becomes the backbone for advanced capabilities like fault detection and diagnostics that help teams catch anomalies early and respond proactively.
What are the benefits of BIM?
Building Information Modeling (BIM) delivers measurable advantages across every stage of the building lifecycle, from early design to ongoing facility operations.
By unifying data, workflows, and visualization, BIM drives efficiency, accuracy, and collaboration like never before.
Here’s how it translates into real-world impact:
1.
Why does connecting BIM with FM platforms matter today?
Because it closes the loop between design, construction, and operations. Integration with CMMS and CAFM: BIM becomes even more powerful when connected to operational systems like a Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) or CAFM software.
The 3D model links directly to real-world asset records.
Clicking on an asset reveals maintenance history or allows a new work order to be created instantly.
Facility teams can visualize and manage maintenance in a 3D environment for faster, data-backed decisions.
5.
They bridge the gap by:
Converting 2D drawings to BIM models
Providing BIM coordination services for contractors who lack in-house capabilities
Offering trained BIM personnel on a project basis
Managing the CDE and coordination process
For firms not ready to fully commit to BIM internally, outsourcing to specialists provides BIM benefits without the overhead of permanent staff and software licenses.
Level of Development (LOD) defines how much detail a BIM model contains at each project stage.
Web-based viewers like Bimeco's free platform democratize access without expensive desktop software.
Cost concerns, difficulty hiring BIM talent, workflow familiarity with AutoCAD, and easier detail representation in 2D keep many contractors on traditional tools. Real estate owners and portfolio managers
Gain a unified, portfolio-wide view of building performance.
Compare asset efficiency across sites to guide capital planning.
Reduce operating costs through data-driven insights and centralized monitoring.
Why it matters: Turn BIM data into a continuous performance record that informs smarter investment decisions.
2.
This application can help contractors and manufacturers with clash detection and training, architects to sell their designs, and owners to "see" into their structures and make better decisions for maintenance and retrofitting.
Furthermore, around the globe, there is an attempt to reduce waste in construction.
Watch episode one!
Building Information Modeling 101: How It Works, and Key Benefits
What is Building Information Modeling (BIM)?
Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a smart, model-based process that helps everyone involved in a building project — from architects and engineers to contractors and facility managers — work together using one shared digital model.
Information models can be used at all stages of a building’s life; from inception to operation— and even renovations and renewals.
Now that we’ve covered what BIM is and how it can be used, let’s move on to BIM levels.
What are BIM Levels?
Different levels of BIM can be achieved for various types of projects.
Owners receive LOD 500 as-built models with facility management data in COBie format for operations.