State of the AEC industry: BIM implementation slow, but inevitable

CADalyst, May, 2005 by H. Edward Goldberg

PERHAPS BECAUSE I'M SO CLOSE to the AEC industry, I often think that architects and engineers are more aware of industry trends than they really are. It amazes me how often I get a blank stare when I mention BIM (building information modeling) and information extraction. True, the AEC industry has moved to CAD, but that's really only electronic drafting. Few have pursued full 3D modeling with great vigor, and even fewer have embraced BIM and information extraction, even though the AEC software industry has spent much time and capital creating and promoting BIM software.

I attribute this lack of adoption to the fact that 2D CAD systems are capable drafting tools and many know how to use them well. BIM software, on the other hand, is much more complex. Though it's more challenging to use BIM software, once mastered, BIM software solutions increase productivity immensely. They provide visualizations, sections and elevations virtually free, and incorporate information that can be culled for use downstream in the construction process.

Major Hurdles

In today's AEC climate, two major impediments block the widespread implementation of 3D and BIM. The first hurdle lies with the liability issue associated with the extraction of digital data directly to the product acquisition stream. For example, if the architect accidentally places two windows in the same location and the contractor purchases them electronically, the architect may have to pay the extra cost. Then there's the question of who will pay the architect for the additional information and the effort required to produce it.

The second problem lies not with the capability of the new BIM software, but with the need to train professionals in how to use these programs. BIM programs are complex, and professionals often don't have the time required to implement new software solutions. In addition, the new programs have created a need for a master builder operator--someone who has intimate knowledge of how buildings are built--but few exist.

Herein lies the conundrum--older AEC professionals know how to construct buildings, but generally not how to operate the software productively. New architecture college graduates are much more computer savvy, but are novices when it comes to construction practices. In addition, architecture schools sometimes don't have room in their schedules or knowledgeable professors to teach effective use of software.

Despite these obstacles, it's inevitable that the AEC industry will move to a 3D virtual or BIM modeling solution. The question remains open as to how long will it take and which software solution will become the industry standard. To boost 3D implementation, many companies and organizations have become involved with the 3D virtual model concept.

The GSA and its BIM Mandate

In December 2003, the GSA (General Services Administration; www.gsa.gov) issued internal guidelines to its regional staff stressing the need for on-time, under-budget project deliveries in the capital construction program. It determined that new and emerging technologies such as 3D/4D and BIM have the potential to dramatically improve the outcome of projects and improve customer satisfaction.

As a result, earilier this year GSA/PBS solicited information on the use of IFC-based BIM technology from all firms in the design, construction, facility management and real property industries. According to GSA/PBS, the information will be "used to assist the government in establishing potential sources in the marketplace with knowledge and experience in the use and practices of this state-of-the-art technology."

GSA has indicated that, beginning in July, the delivery of IFC-based BIM will be required for the preliminary design phase of all new fiscal year 2006 projects.

What Are IFCs?

What exactly are IFCs (industry foundation classes)? These are data models developed by the IAI (Internation Alliance for Interoperability, www.iai-international.org) to facilitate interoperability between 3D AEC objects. The IAI is a division of ISO (International Standards Organization), the body that controls the IGES and STEP data standards.

The IFC system is a data representation standard and file format for defining architectural and construction CAD graphic data as 3D real-world objects, primarily to enable architectural CAD users to transfer design data between different software applications. It uses the 3D object-based CAD concept, which AEC software developers have labeled BIM.

To illustrate the concept, imagine a 3D wall object made up of two layers of gypsum board on either side of a wood stud. In the IFC format, all this information, including areas, is stored in a particular location in a text file. Any software program that adheres to the IFC format can read and interpret this information, allowing it to be used in programs such as estimating and project management.

Autodesk Architectural Desktop, MicroStation Architecture and Nemetschek Allplan can transfer data through the IFC. Autodesk Revit Building 8 has received stage-one IFC certification, and Vectorworks Architect is investigating its use.