Key Benefits of BIM for Civil Engineering Firm Owners 2024

More than just a buzzword, Building Information Modeling (BIM) stands as a game-changer for professionals, especially civil engineering firm owners. The AEC industry is witnessing a seismic shift as urbanisation continues its relentless march forward. In this ever-evolving landscape, as civil engineering is on the brink of revolution, BIM benefits for owners are countless. Not just another tool, BIM is a digital powerhouse with the potential to disrupt the entire Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry.

How does it achieve this? By simplifying and enhancing the construction processes that exist in our modern world.

In this blog, let’s delve deeper to understand the various BIM benefits for owners. We'll see how BIM for small firms empowers civil engineers to take charge and lead the way through this evolving landscape, and how it contributes to a more sustainable and efficient future.

Why BIM is the New Normal

BIM is a holistic process for the digitisation of both the physical and non-physical aspects of the AEC industry. BIM for small firms and large firms is an all-inclusive approach that aims to formulate punctual, interactive, searchable, predictable, and controllable 3D models. These models are then used through multiple channels to improve outcomes in the building and construction processes. From the initial design phase through construction and into operations, extensive collaboration is at the heart of BIM's pivotal role.

BIM for small firms not only promotes collaboration but also streamlines the work process. Being the new normal, the advantages of adopting BIM are clear: enhanced visibility, informed decision-making, sustainable design possibilities, reduced data prep time, significant cost savings, and many more. From governments to AEC firms around the world, more and more stakeholders are learning to adapt to an industry where the use of BIM is always expected. 

1. From Design to Construction: How BIM Benefits the Firm Owners

With the myriad benefits of BIM in civil engineering, there is simply no room for long work hours, multiple errors, and complex processes. Let’s see why.

•  Reduced Data-Prep Time

There is an assumption that “BIM is only useful in vertical construction.” But the ‘building’ in BIM can be misleading. BIM is equally beneficial for infrastructure projects like highways, roads, bridges, etc., where a controlled, direct data flow between office, field, design, and construction is needed. 

Building projects require a shorter construction span than infrastructure projects; hence, the data extraction for such projects becomes tardy and gruesome when done manually. BIM for small firms allows even smaller teams of civil engineers to easily extract the data from designs using advanced models. All of this without the need to create a digital model from those drawings by hand. 

• Track and Clarify Project Progress

The benefits of BIM in the design stage are known to all, but the ability of BIM to keep track of onsite work progress is what makes it a tech for the future. Implementing BIM for small firms enables seamless, controlled data transfer between the office and the field at all construction phases. This allows on-site personnel to receive real-time updates on the model, ensuring accuracy and efficiency. The real-time updates also prevent any mismatch between execution and design. As the machines and workers operate at the site, they generate data on the surfaces they create. BIM coordinators can easily conduct volume calculations and assess the impact of any modifications on the project as well. 

• Precise Quantity Takeoffs

With rising costs, the benefits of BIM in construction are crucial for making the most accurate cost estimates possible. Making quantity takeoffs digitally through BIM technology eliminates the need to manually scale information based on drawings alone. BIM is useful in providing integrated models that provide the data with extreme precision. With precise and accurate data, it is easier to make better cost predictions and estimations. 

• Extensive Collaboration and Efficient Time Savings

BIM collaboration benefits the team as it means less manual work for everyone involved. The advanced ability to track, share, and supervise accurate information about onsite work across teams reduces the need for manual data management and eliminates redundancies. BIM benefits for owners include smooth project coordination, collaboration, and improved delivery times. 

• Fixing Errors in Office Rather Than the Field

Errors and changes in the field during execution are inevitable. However avoidable mistakes that derail deadlines and budgets are painful. Firm owners can now use BIM clash detection benefits to prevent this and minimise 'working blind'. This will uncover any errors beforehand to save cost, time, and material.

2. Some Initial BIM Challenges Today to Triumph Tomorrow

What are hurdles? Some stepping stones towards long-term benefits, right? Civil Engineering firm owners may initially encounter some difficulties while adopting BIM. But it's essential to recognise that these challenges will ultimately yield significant advantages.

• Cost of BIM Software and Initial Investment

Setting up BIM for small firms might be worrisome, as acquiring this software for initial model construction or modifications requires a significant investment. This investment is not just in the software itself but in high-performance computers as well. However, the benefits derived from this investment justify the expense, but only if the software is utilised to its full potential.

• Shortage of Skilled Staff and Experts

The adoption of BIM technology has resulted in a shortage of professionals who are experienced and skilled in this field. With the constant advancements in BIM, it is crucial to invest in training and education to keep up with the evolving nature of the technology. Along with the need for skilled staff, there is also a requirement for office space and resources to support the implementation of BIM.

• Challenges in Organisational Adoption

Embracing the change and bringing in effective leadership is the most crucial step before implementing BIM. BIM benefits for owners will only come along if the organisation is ready to adapt its structure to tackle any challenges that may arise during the process and support the implementation of BIM. When it comes to BIM for small firms, this can include establishing a robust IT infrastructure and establishing business strategies for the redesign and restructuring initiatives.

Construction Firms Leveraging BIM Tools

The application of BIM in small firms is significantly increasing with each passing day. There are already many success stories from around the world, where firms saved millions and earned prestigious awards through effective BIM utilisation. 

1. Sichuan Road and Bridge Group

Sichuan Road and Bridge (SRB) set new, soaring standards for highway construction. By adopting Bentley's Openroads tool in BIM and reality modelling, the firm overcame many challenges in design. SRB used OpenRoads Designer and OpenRoads ConceptStation to model, inspect, visualise, and correct traffic line-of-sight problems at expressway interchanges. This implementation of BIM technology saved CNY 17.5 million, reduced the construction period, and improved overall project efficiency.

2. Comsa Corporación

Comsa Corporación, a Spanish global group focusing on infrastructure development, digitised the renovation of Cabrianes Bridge in Barcelona to enhance safety, service, and traffic flow, as well as accommodate pedestrian and cyclist mobility. By using MicroStation, OpenRoads, and Navisworks, Comsa created a collaborative 3D modelling environment for better design and construction understanding. BIM clash detection feature benefitted the firm and allowed them to identify and rectify geometrical errors while detecting costly potential mistakes before construction, saving time and expenses.

3. Ferrovial Constructions

Ferrovial Constructions secured a $301 million reconstruction contract from the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) because of their extensive use of BIM in construction. For the I-35 Northeast Expansion (NEX) Central project in San Antonio, Texas, Ferrovial used Bentley's ProjectWise and iTwin platforms to enhance information exchange and develop a digital twin. These platforms predicted clash detection and successfully eliminated 3,530 collisions, resolved visibility issues, and provided precise material information to the construction team. Their advanced technology and digital transformation strategy earned them multiple awards.

Essential BIM Tools For Civil Engineers

1. Bentley OpenRoads

OpenRoads is considered the “future of faster, smarter civil engineering." Boosting infrastructure growth through smart collaboration, automation, and the handling of large databases with ease, OpenRoads is now widely used for subsurface utilities, surveying and drainage, smart highways, roadways with construction-driven engineering and analysis, etc. Developed by Bentley Systems, this BIM tool integrates 3D modelling, analysis, and design capabilities, allowing civil engineers to create complex road and highway designs efficiently.

2. Autodesk Navisworks

Specifically designed for enhanced collaboration and clash detection, Navisworks is an essential tool that any civil engineering firm needs. Want to avoid the dreadful dream that there are multiple onsite errors just because of a lack of communication? Navisworks is the answer to turning your nightmares into daydreams. Its computer-generated models leave no room for last-minute errors, and all the stakeholders involved can review the model at all times while being updated on any changes. 

Learn more about the features and advantages of Navisworks here.

3. Autodesk Revit

A civil engineer needs to tend to an “N” number of tasks during the execution of any project. This becomes cumbersome when there are multiple changes in the model. Revit allows a versatile range of functionalities that greatly benefit civil engineers. From calculating the concrete volume to allowing for accurate cost estimates, Revit simplifies the process using advanced data models and provides laser-cut precision in cost and quantity estimates. From initial design development and coordination to 3D modelling, drawing set creation, and quantity takeoff, Revit handles everything for civil engineers. 

Read A Beginner's Guide To Revit: Everything You Need To Know for in-depth knowledge.

4. Vectorworks

Are you looking to gain a competitive edge? Then, look no further because Vectorworks’ specialised features are specially curated to meet the unique demands of civil engineers. This software simplifies the early-stage quantification and analysis of data, empowering informed decision-making from the very start, especially during schematic design phases. Vectorworks encompasses road and highway design, site modelling, and grading, addressing all the key aspects required for civil engineering projects.

5. BricsCAD

A secret weapon every civil engineer needs in their toolbox is “BricsCAD”. It's not just software; it's a way for the engineers to escape the long hours. With BricsCAD, complex tasks like road design, site planning, and 3D modelling are easily simplified. What makes BricsCAD truly essential is its ability to streamline workflows and enhance productivity. It empowers engineers to perform accurate calculations, simulate designs, and visualise projects with precision. This not only saves time but also ensures that projects meet the highest standards of quality.

BIM; The New Mantra for Civil Engineering Firm Owners

The adoption of BIM is reshaping the construction landscape globally. Firms are embracing a futuristic approach, incorporating AI, machine learning, and cloud platforms. It is because of these countless BIM benefits for owners that more and more firms are shifting to this software. For more collaborative and efficient construction, AEC has adopted the new mantra of adopting sustainable practices and using advanced digital tools for better and more precise work.

Conclusion

The BIM revolution is reshaping the landscape of civil engineering; it's a tool that feels like it's from the future, simplifying complex tasks and enhancing project outcomes for us today. It is evident why global firms have recognised it as an absolute necessity in today's dynamic industry. If you’re a civil engineer, then BIM is a no-brainer. Embrace the BIM benefits for owners if you aspire to advance in the civil engineering field.

Embark on this transformative journey and explore our BIM Professional Course for Civil Engineers. Novatr is helping civil engineers harness the power of BIM benefits for owners and be at the forefront of innovation through their professional courses.