BIM handbook launched after industry feedback

Business Information Modeling handbook designed to help readers better understand the BIM process

In an effort to increase the use of Business Information Modeling (BIM) in New Zealand’s construction industry, the Building and Construction Productivity Partnership (BCPP) officially launched the BIM handbook in July, following significant industry consultation on a draft handbook published in April.

BIM creates complete digital representations of built assets. Models are created with real-life attributes, which can then be shared with all parties working on a project.

BCPP manager Chris Kane said BIM could help lift the performance of New Zealand’s building and construction sector, because it improves project collaboration and coordination.

“Overseas experience shows that using BIM on construction projects can result in significant productivity gains,” Mr Kane said.

The aim of the BIM handbook is to provide a framework to help users decide how to best use the software, create a common language to improve industry communication and outline the most efficient process to use on a BIM-assisted project.

Advantages of BIM

According to a BCPP report, the British Government anticipates a 20–30% reduction in the lifecycle cost of public-sector assets through the use of BIM on all infrastructure projects after 2016.

An international report found that in 2009, the average duration of BIM projects was 27% shorter than traditional projects; by 2012, the difference had widened to 37%.