Just learning about posibilities of BIM (mainly from "E" perspectice) - could suggest this article to take a look: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/257726942_The_Benefits_Obstacles_and_Problems_of_Practical_Bim_Implementation?ev=contentfeed
It show cases some projects in Lithuana.
From my own experience:
1.Reduces time for energy simulation model preparation
2. Less time consuming to make passive energy efficiency corrections in architectural part.
3. Reduces risk of inccorect mechanical design solutions interferencing with other parts in project.
Article The Benefits, Obstacles and Problems of Practical Bim Implementation
Have a look at my paper on BIM Drivers (ITCON) and also the one on BIM through the project lifecycle (Automation in Construction). Both are free downloads until 31st January 2014.
While I would argue that BIM is more than the tools (the software or databases), it can not be used without them.
The benefits from the tools are on varied levels:
- low level > better communication by using 3D representations throughout the process
- mid level > more coherent virtual model, allowing to avoid errors or discrepancies during the design phase
- high level > collaboration and information exchange > information can be shared more unambiguously: a wall is identified as such, concrete is a material with actual properties and spaces/rooms/zones are (or should be) marked and categorized.
Initially, the software vendors would argue that you can make your drawings faster. I'm still not convinced for a large part. Creating a section through the model indeed provides a 2D drawing, but it depends on the robustness and soundness of the model to begin with. In many cases, a straight drawing can be faster. But when incorporating this into the design process, the benefits will show up: changes are easier to integrate, drawings/documents derived from the model are consistent and you can focus more on the design and solving construction instead of focusing on drafting.
For me the benefits are clear. When migrating to BIM, architects can already reap some of these benefits quite fast (e.g. 3D documents, synchronised drawings), but it takes a change of working habits to start benefitting from the other advantages and that might take a few projects to be productive.
The benefit for the AEC industry should be mostly on productivity, better performing buildings, improved communication, less failure costs, more predictable outcomes and (as a whole) a higher level of professionalism, compared to traditional, document-based workflows.
I agree with you. As you mentioned, BIM is more than the tools and it's more about using modern methodology in design, construction, facility management and etc. to provide the mentioned benefits in your answer into the AEC industry.