
FAQs
BIM FAQS
Owners can spend a lot of money on their BIM efforts and not get the desired results. Here are a few FAQs regarding the BIM Process.
We have done extensive research, trying to find an Owner that utilizes non-parametric data validation. We have yet to find one (other than our clients). It is a vacuum within the construction industry that Proactive wants to address to ensure that project owners are 1) getting the information they pay for, and 2) the information is correct. Verification of model accuracy and integrity is the only way to achieve that goal. Otherwise, the Owner is taking the Designer, Contractor, and Subcontractor’s word that the model is complete and correct. Proactive empowers Owners to actively manage their projects by verifying model progress and quality before, during and after construction.
Asset data and deliverables should be project-specific. Asset data requirements can vary based on many factors, such as BAS (Building Automation System) or Facility Management and Maintenance software requirements. Requiring all data that “may” be useful is an endeavor best left to NASA. Requirements should be project-specific and reviewed/revised over time to maximize usefulness and ROI for the Owner.
Architects and Contractors will do a majority of the heavy lifting in model development. Architects and engineers develop models to coordinate their design and produce drawings efficiently, reducing (and sometimes skimping on) design costs. Contractors develop models to help them determine constructability, among other uses. No one is monitoring model development and quality with your interests in mind – that’s where Proactive comes in.
ProactiveBIM™ is the only system that allows you to monitor your BIM process at a glance via our proprietary Executive Dashboard, make actionable decisions and communicate with your stakeholders based on real-time design coordination. Without ProactiveBIM™, no one is monitoring model progress and quality.
Without ProactiveBIM™, no single party aggregates data from all sources (Designers, Contractors, Design-Assist) to measure total model progress. Without this aggregate data, the model is an untapped resource with no tangible ROI. ProactiveBIM™ plans and measures the comprehensive progress of all relevant models so you can create realistic budgets and schedules validated by measurable data points monitored for progress against the project plan.
Proactive starts with an assessment of your firm’s existing personnel, knowledge and comfort level with BIM models, software tools, and rapidly evolving industry standards. We endeavor to understand your long-term construction program and facility operation goals and develop a BIM Standard tailored to meet those objectives. Owners should not rely on “off the shelf” standards, which are typically overburdensome to both Designers and Contractors…costing the Owner more money during design and construction.
It depends on your project's specific elements (ex. Health care facility vs power plant vs manufacturing plant) and varies between design, construction, and operational phases. The proper LOD is driven by specific components, operational needs, and planned facility use. However, there are existing industry standards that serve as a great baseline for phased LOD requirements that can be modified to fit your project's specific needs.
Proper BIM implementation is a team effort between Owner, Designer and Contractor. However, the process should be specified, coordinated and verified by the Owner to achieve their desired BIM, Construction, and facility management goals. Proactive assists Owners in planning and implementing a BIM process to fulfill their specific needs for individual projects and long-range construction programs.
Operational and personnel costs for Facility Management are orders of magnitude higher than the actual construction cost of a building. Planning BIM content and deliverables based on anticipated use by the facility manager maximizes the BIM return on investment, not only through the construction phase, but throughout the entire life cycle of the building. Proper planning ensures system interoperability, efficiency of seamless integration of equipment and maintenance data into existing - or planned - facility management software platforms.
In addition to the huge cost and efficiency savings, some of the largest benefits of BIM for Owners are surprisingly underappreciated:
- Transparency: The BIM process provides greater transparency into the design and construction process.
- Reduced Risk: Owners who monitor progress throughout the construction life-cycle reduce project risk.
- Real-Time Decision Making: BIM spatial coordination and clash detection provides a visual platform (e.g., the model) for Owners to evaluate constructability, design options and scheduling decisions collaboratively in real-time.
Many Owners tend to focus on cost and efficiency savings attributed to BIM and overlook the most essential component – Information.
Main Offices
Massachusetts
351 Pleasant Street, Suite B, #135
Northampton, MA 01060
216.220.2740
North Carolina
13200 Strickland Road, Suite 114, #299
Raleigh, NC 27613
216.220.2740
Ohio
P.O. Box 16824
Rocky River, OH 44116
216.220.2740