How BIM processes and software are transforming Architecture

BIM is the ideal solution for architecture: architects and all those involved in the building process work together. Architectural firms model construction data within a single digital model. Information is preserved throughout a project's lifecycle, from design to operation. Mastering Building Information Modeling means first and foremost understanding the tool and its techniques, so you can choose the right software (see end of article!). Ready to make the most of your talents and change the future of architecture? Find the answer in this summary.

See all software Computer-Aided Design (CAD)

Summary of our BIM guide for architects :

The added value of BIM for architecture

• Working together through the BIM process
• Mastering the project with a digital model
• Building virtually with 3D modeling
• Use the same data in ICF format

The ideal solution for architects

• 4 benefits for all building professionals
• The architect's role throughout the construction process
• 9 architects talk about their use of BIM
• Case study: example of a BIM project

How to choose software

• The 3 levels of BIM maturity
• 13 rules for BIM collaboration
• Experts' expectations and interests
• BIM for small architectural practices
• Different types of software

The 3 leading BIM software packages

• Revit from Autodesk
• Archicad from Graphisoft
• Allplan by Nemetschek

The players shaping the future of building

• Digital Transition Plan for the Building Industry
• Legislators
• Professional associations
• The architecture training label
• Communities

The added value of BIM for architecture

Working together as part of the BIM process

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a collaborative work process that today enables all players to work together on the same project, promoting exchange and understanding at every stage in the life of a construction project.

Working in isolation, complicating communication, entering the same data, ignoring other stages or business points of view, multiplying exchange documents and errors reflect the practices of a bygone era.

Modeling all building data to represent it virtually within a digital mock-up gives all professionals access to the same data, enabling them to collaborate more effectively by anticipating the interactions between each discipline.

Mastering the project with a digital model

Also known as an avatar, a digital mock-up is a virtual representation of an identical construction project. It contains BIM objects, or 3D objects, which make up the entire building.

It details all the information concerning the construction site, its stages, constraints and players. It enables simulations to be carried out, costs to be anticipated, and the project as a whole to be better managed.

Digital mock-ups are proving their worth for projects large and small: all architectural practices use them, regardless of the complexity of the project, not only for new buildings, but also for renovation and refurbishment.

Some architects are becoming BIM managers, managing the project in its entirety, to ensure and restore a certain level of architectural design quality in production.

Building virtually with 3D modeling

Using the same data with the IFC format

Nothing is possible without the use of a standard that can be exploited by all: the IFC file format (Industry Foundation Classes) is a standardized computer file format.

This format can be opened in different software: architects don't necessarily use the same software as other construction professionals. This is known as software interoperability.

The IFC format enables simultaneous engineering work on the digital mock-up: each player works on the same file. The major advantages of this optimal use of BIM: documentation is common and many structural and functional problems are avoided.

Discover the B.A.ba of BIM in images in the following presentation from July 2017:

Presentation by Sébastien TESSIER and Jean-Paul TREHEN, Mediaconstruct at the "Le B.A.ba du BIM: l'open BIM" workshop at the 2nd edition of BtoBIM (05/07/17). Mediaconstruct is an association representing BuildingSMART in France, promotes the use of digital mockup (BIM) and supports the national digital transition plan among building industry players.

The ideal solution for architects

4 advantages for all building professionals

Advantage #1: project control

The architect's design is integrated into the model: every element is controlled and simulated. The BIM process enables the architect to choose the best architectural and technical solutions. By simulating the various phases, the architect produces coherent graphic documents and plans, ensuring better site follow-up.

Benefit no. 2: easier coordination between players

Digital mock-ups offer a clearer understanding of the project, and simplify exchanges with and between all the players involved, the client and the project manager. Execution plans and design summaries can be easily printed out, enabling work phases and variants to be assessed in consultation. BIM improves coordination and enables architects to communicate and develop their ideas at every stage of the project.

Advantage n°3: check and anticipate incidents

The architect ensures consistency between the established program and the project by checking the design and construction stages: he builds virtually, before the structure is actually built. In this way, they anticipate any interactions that could lead to faulty workmanship or non-compliant production, using enhanced self-control procedures (urban planning, fire safety, accessibility, etc.).

Advantage no. 4: design quality work from a performance standpoint

Falling error rates, anticipation of incidents: the BIM process also makes it possible to reduce lead times and better estimate the quantity of materials required, as well as prefabrication. In short, architects design more efficient buildings: digital mock-ups enable them to control and deliver the best possible performance from every angle.

Estimated savings range from 5% to 20% of construction costs.

Source: " BIM, a major challenge for architects" (ordredesarchitectes.be)

The architect's role throughout the construction process

Architectural firms and design offices play a central role in construction projects: their dominant presence noted by BIM World reflects their preponderant interest in the BIM process and software.

Image source: BIM WORLD, 2017 review

According to the Ordre des Architectes (brochure: " Le BIM, un atout pour l'architecture "), the architect's scope of intervention is expanding.

The use of BIM and digital mock-ups enables architects to offer services throughout the entire life cycle of a building, including project management and project assistance. Prerequisites: proficiency in BIM software and collaborative design processes.

Project management assignments:

• thermal calculations,
• project costing and economics,
• execution drawings,
• synthesis or OPC.

Post-contracting services

Management over time of :

• Dossier des ouvrages exécutés (DOE),
• the DIUO file (dossier des interventions ultérieures sur l'ouvrage) in digital format.

The digital mock-up needs to be constantly updated to offer optimal monitoring, identical to the building's evolution.

Support for operation and maintenance

The secret of quality and planning lies in information. The quality of the data and the ability to use it appropriately represent opportunities for the architect:

• services for operation and maintenance,
• services for updating and monitoring the digital model,
• data extraction services to help clients assess the value of their assets.

9 testimonials from architects on their use of BIM

Testimonial 1: Gonçalo Ducla Soares, architect, Arte Charpentier agency

BIM is an approach that enables information to flow efficiently, without loss or redundancy, and with substantial time savings.

Source: Village BIM

Testimonial 2: Louis Paillard, architect

Thanks to this tool and its single file, all participants work interactively in a workshop, enabling all partners to be monitored both internally and externally. There's no more blah, blah, blah... Relations between partners become more intelligent, thanks to a visual understanding of all the issues involved.

Source: AMC-ARCHI

Video testimonial 3: Olivier Celnik, architect DPLG, founder of Z.STUDIO

Olivier Celnik, architect DPLG, founder and managing partner of Z.STUDIO, gives us his clear-sighted point of view on video:

BIM can be fatal for architectural firms if they don't get involved

Olivier Celnik, architect DPLG, founder and managing partner of Z.STUDIO, C coordinator of the BIM Specialized Master's program at Ecole des Ponts ParisTech, teacher at Ecole Nationale Supérieure d'Architecture Paris Val de Seine and Versailles and elected member of CROAIF (Conseil Régional de l'Ordre des Architectes d'Île-de-France).

Testimonial 4: Pierre Navarra, engineer, Sona architecture firm

The tool and the digital model using BIM technology is an endless means of communication. The generation of realistic panoramas enables us to immerse ourselves in the model and better understand the scope of the work to be carried out on such a project.

Source: Village BIM

Testimonial 5: Pierre-Maxence Renoult, Engineer - Architect, Project Manager at Arcora

Architects should familiarize themselves with BIM (Building Information Modeling) as soon as possible. On the one hand, so as not to be caught out when a project developed using BIM comes their way. On the other hand, so that they can establish themselves as respected players in these new work methodologies by taking control of the digital mock-up, and thus be the driving force behind future developments in BIM. While the Anglo-Saxon method has been tried and tested across the Channel and the Atlantic, in France it is still in its infancy. This leaves all those involved in the construction industry with a reasonably wide scope for adapting it to the way we design building projects.

Source: Archibat

Testimonial 6: Laurence Bonnevie, architect

The advantages of BIM? Certainly in terms of quality and time savings. 3D synthesis, particularly with fluids, in the design phase helps to improve quality on site. I hadn't really thought about saving time at the outset, but when I discovered Revit's functions, which make it possible to use the same model to envisage multiple phasing of work and to propose variants within the same project, I was able to see and appreciate this additional advantage!

Source : Village BIM

Testimonial 7: Carmen Martinez Gilles, BIM architect, Atelier d'architecture Chaix & Morel et Associés

On a day-to-day basis, BIM is a real time-saver. As soon as we correct an element on one of the views, it is corrected on all the plans. Not to mention that the slightest modification is visible to all the other players!

Source: MediaConstruct

Testimonial 8: Razvan Gorcea, architect and BIM Manager at Michel Rémon & Associés architectural studio

The BIM process federates different project data (programmatic, urban, regulatory and technical), and brings together all the players involved in the specific operation. (...) We also use the BIM model as a didactic tool for project visualization and decision support for our clients.

Source: BIM WORLD, manifesto 2017

Testimonial 9: Sona architecture firm

The BIM method, associated with the architectural project, accompanies the entire life cycle of a building, enabling gains in creativity and savings on site and in management, right from the smallest scales. The digital mock-up is a database, a reliable support for simulations, and an unprecedented tool for exchanges and sharing between construction players. It's the transversality of its functions that makes this tool highly adaptable to a wide range of projects.

Source : Village BIM

Case study: example of a BIM project

Feedback from architects is essential to form an opinion on the value of the BIM process. Here's a concrete example of a project that illustrates the use of BIM and collaborative methods between trades.

How to choose software

The 3 levels of BIM

Since the advent of CAD and 2D, the explosion of BIM today reveals different degrees of maturity. The table below explains these levels and their importance. This will help you situate your approach to BIM.

13 rules for BIM collaboration:

• Rule no. 1: BIM is a process, the digital mock-up a tool,
• Rule 2: the idea is to work better, together,
• Rule 3: everyone wins,
• Rule 4: all phases can be designed virtually,
• Rule no. 5: understanding all the issues at stake means identifying the interactions between professions,
• Rule no. 6: to understand, there's nothing like communication,
• Rule 7: files must guarantee interoperability, so that they can be used by all,
• Rule 8: files are hosted and accessible,
• Rule no. 9: construction modeling is based on 3D objects,
• Rule 10: object data is structured,
• Rule 11: object data are updated,
• Rule 12: the BIM process must be set up before any modeling,
• Rule 13: my BIM software is not standard 3D software, but object-oriented software.

Experts' expectations and interests

Image source: BIM WORLD, 2017 review

The image above expresses a general interest in BIM technology: modeling and interoperability between tools top the list of concerns.

To complete this picture, here are the advantages perceived by construction professionals in descending order:

• optimal collaborative working,
• design errors plummet,
• increased quality,
• anticipation of work,
• shorter design and construction times,
• lower operating costs,
• easier eco-design.

Source: the PTNB survey " BIM in the construction sector, March 2017 barometer ".

BIM for small architectural practices

Small and medium-sized architecture firms account for 70% of players: it's clear that the adoption of BIM and its evangelization by as many people as possible are part of the shared benefits that architects and clients can derive.

BIM isn't just for huge projects! Every project has its own BIM model: whether small, medium or large, the project depends on the architect. By using the digital mock-up associated with the BIM collaborative process, the architect shares his work with the other participants. Together, they facilitate the smooth running of the project.

The role of the architect is crucial at every stage of the construction process, as described above: the architect can offer additional services in the interests of his client.

Managing a project with BIM also offers many advantages for smaller architectural structures:

• Improved collaboration between team members,
• increased productivity,
• better analyses thanks to simulations,
• more precise project planning,
• new assignments throughout the entire life cycle.

Small and medium-sized architectural practices can thus benefit from BIM in the medium and long term.

The different types of software

The 3 leading BIM software packages

Revit from Autodesk

Revit is the tool most widely used by architects and other construction professionals. This software enables building data to be modeled at every stage of the building's life cycle, from design to construction, right through to operation. In particular, Revit is the most advanced tool for implementing complex programs and projects.

Below, an overview of Revit in video (it is advisable to enquire about the capabilities of the latest version):

Revit's flagship features :

• comparison and collision functions,
• optimized point cloud conversion via Recap,
• flexible operation with Autocad,
• modifications to the BIM model are updated automatically,
• more than 300 plugins,
• compatibility with the My Snapkin for Autodesk Revit suite, which enhances the use of Revit for existing building modeling,
• 16 online object libraries offering 70,000 BIM objects (Autocad + Revit),
• native .RVT format (working format),
• advanced interoperability with .IFC and .IFC4 formats,
• other export formats: .DXF, .DWG, .DGN, .ACIS, .DWF, .ADSK, .NWC, .FBX, .GBXML, .IFC, .IFC4.

Is Revit right for you?
Revit pushes the boundaries of collaborative working with a dedicated BIM server to manage remote working, and includes a specific tool for the BIM manager. Although the tool is renowned for its capabilities, it takes a long time to get to grips with, which may put some people off. Patience and high standards are essential if you're going to make this choice!

Allplan from Nemetschek

Allplan is appreciated by architects for the design and execution phases. This structure- and architecture-oriented software is intuitive and efficient for small-scale BIM projects. It is both an accessible tool for feasibility studies and a powerful rendering tool.

Below, a video preview of Allplan (it is advisable to enquire about the capabilities of the latest version):

Allplan's flagship features :

• simulations of material components,
• comparison of different digital models in IFC format,
• insert annotations in the 3D cloud and legend,
• 4 3D object providers,
• plug-ins available in small quantities,
• native .NDW format (working format),
• guaranteed interoperability with .IFC format,
• other export formats: .DXF, .DWG, .DGN, .PDF, .PLT, .C4D, .SKP, .3DS, .WRL.

Archicad from Graphisoft

Some medium-sized architectural firms use Archicad for recurring projects, in the design and execution phases. This architectural and technical synthesis software is integrated into an openBIM collaborative workflow. Like Revit, Archicad enables several architects to work easily and remotely via a cloud platform.

Below, a video preview of Archicad (it is advisable to enquire about the capabilities of the latest version):

Archicad features :

• comparison of different digital models in IFC format,
• paramentrism of objects,
• facing management,
• 10 online object libraries offering 1,021 BIM objects,
• small number of plug-ins,
• native .PLN and .PLA formats (working formats),
• guaranteed interoperability with .IFC format,
• other export formats: .DXF, .DWG, .DNG, .DWF.

Is Archicad right for you?
When it comes to collaborative working, Archicad is highly advanced. A platform also allows the client to view the model online. On the other hand, the BIM Manager needs a third-party tool to manage the BIM project. Archicad is quick to learn and efficient for small and medium-sized projects. If you're tackling large-scale projects, most architects use cinema4D or 3dStudio-type software as a back-up.

See all software Computer-Aided Design (CAD)

The players shaping the future of construction

Digital Transition Plan for the Building Industry

The PTNB aims to accelerate the revival of activity in the construction sector: its vocation is to encourage the adoption of digital tools, enable apprenticeships, and support standardization. Presented in 2014 by the Minister of Housing, Territorial Equality and Rurality, Madame Sylvia Pinel, the PTNB was officially created on January 20, 2015.

Legislators

Article 11 of the French law on energy transition for green growth of August 17, 2015 requires a digital housing maintenance logbook for all new construction for which the building permit is filed on or after January 1, 2017. Since 2017, the law concerning public procurement in France offers the project owner the right to impose the digital mock-up as a working tool.

Professional associations:

• The Ordre des Architectes, with its national and regional councils.


• BuildingSmart is an international construction industry organization. Its mission: to develop the best possible interoperability between software used in the building sector, thanks to a common computer language: IFC (Industry Foundation Classes).


• MediaConstruct : this association, the French version of BuildingSmart International, supports actions in France: it promotes best practices by evangelizing the use of IFC and digital mock-ups. It also encourages professionals to share their feedback and contributes to the international standardization drive to advance software interoperability.


• The BIM WORLD trade show (the next will take place on March 28 and 29, 2018 in Paris) is dedicated to BIM. It brings together a large number of players and enables professionals, software publishers and object manufacturers, to make contacts through exhibitions, conferences, manifestos and interviews.


• AFNOR, Association Française de Normalisation, standardizes and certifies.


• Numerous other building trade associations, such as Cercle Promodul, contribute their share of evangelism.

The architecture training label

The Commission Paritaire Nationale de l'Emploi et la Formation Professionnelle (CPNEFP) of the Branche des Entreprises d'Architecture has a positive influence on the quality of continuing professional training courses for employees of architectural firms.

In fact, a labeling procedure for continuing professional training actions that has been in place for the past 4 years characterizes quality training, deemed a priority by the Branche, and therefore offering enhanced training coverage for the employee.

Source: Architecture branch (2015)

The communities

HexaBIM is an independent community platform dedicated to BIM. Professionals and architects alike can exchange and share experiences. There are specialized groups by trade or by software, as well as downloadable resources.

Screenshot of the Hexabim community platform

Linkedin groups:

• The " BIM Practices " group has 4,086 members to date, and has already been mentioned on the MediaConstruct and HexaBIM blogs,
• The " La communauté de la Construction et du BTP " by LeMoniteur.fr group now has 6,229 members.

Numerous groups also exist on Google+, either BIM-related or software-specific communities.

Forums on software publishers' websites , such as Autodesk's Revit and BIM - Français , or Graphisoft's Archicad Talk.

And of course: you!