BIM (Building Information Modelling) is a set of processes and guidelines that aims to optimise the overall design, construction and operation of buildings through the use of digital models. The application of what is often referred to as Building Information Modelling (BIM) enables collaboration and information transfer in a virtual space – which is in line with reality – and the rapid and efficient presentation of relevant data to clients, designers, contractors and operators. Nowadays, the letter ‘M’ in BIM often stands for ‘Management’, referring to the process of using the system beyond modelling and populating it with information on the properties of model elements, through all phases of the building life cycle (Building Information Management).

Although some conceptual elements of building information modelling emerged in the second half of the 1970s, the international standard for BIM (ISO 19650) only came into force in 2019. The starting point for applying this method is a shared, common BIM 3D model of the building, created in an environment that allows access, addition or modification of the model – and thus more intensive collaboration – by all stakeholders. In this way, BIM can be contrasted with the use of the traditional method, which is characterised by minimal collaboration, paper-based drawings and 2D CAD, possibly with some 3D CAD modelling for conceptual design.

Our services aim to exploit the benefits of BIM, which can be associated with significant time and cost savings in design, construction or operation. In our experience, the mere fact that someone adopts BIM does not automatically mean that they will enjoy its benefits: the benefits that can be achieved depend crucially on how BIM is applied. Examples of the benefits of using building information modelling include the following:

• Design flaws – it becomes easier to identify design flaws before construction and reduce the number of inconsistencies that affect its feasibility;

• Execution organisation – more detailed, transparent organisation plans of the execution site can be produced;

• Asset management – having the exact type, purchase and warranty details of assets and equipment and other related information digitally stored in the same system simplifies the process;

• Scheduling – collision analysis can detect and correct time and space conflicts in site workflows before they start.

3E Group’s extensive range of BIM-related services are provided by 3E BIM Ltd, ranging from consultative, limited-length BIM support to BIM project management, in many cases spanning the entire lifecycle of a building.

Other engineering services from 3E Group are also available on request with full BIM support, including project management with laser scanning or photographic monitoring, technical audits, technical condition assessments, cost consultancy and other engineering services.