What constitutes a BIM Team?
BIM Team or BIM Departments are at the very core of AEC firms offering BIM solutions. These multi-disciplinary groups consist of experts from various disciplines who take on an integrated approach to provide end to end building pre-design services. Below we will talk about what makes a multi-disciplinary BIM design team, and who are its key members.
What is a BIM Multidisciplinary design team?
A typical complete BIM project utilizes Architectural, Structural and MEP BIM Services. The experts from these disciplines offer their perspectives on what would be the best solution for the building during its complete lifecycle. They handle large amount of information like results of design analysis performed, project goals, fabrication strategies etc. Each team member develops the design and features which relates to his discipline. It can then be shared and visualized by other members of the team. This allows for effective coordination, reduces errors generated by miscommunication and maintains integrity of the project.
1. BIM Lead:
The person here manages different teams or the sub teams working on different BIM projects. The person sets up project specific standards and ensures that the team abides by them. The BIM lead sees to it that the schedule is followed, client’s requirements are being adhered to, checks that different facets of the project are being delivered in the right format and so on. BIM Leads need to be extremely knowledgeable and they only report to BIM Manager or BIM Director.
2. BIM Manager and BIM Director:
BIM Manager oversees the entire BIM group. In larger organizations there is a BIM Director who looks after multiple offices or groups from a central location. The chain of command goes from the BIM Director to the BIM Manager.
BIM Manager is involved in the project right from the get go. He must have through knowledge of BIM, adeptness in BIM Software and also have experience in project management. They give insightful advice to the team, provide general updates, oversees work, conducts meeting etc. They also make the final decisions. In larger companies generally the BIM Manager reports to the BIM Director who takes the final call whenever there is a requirement.
3. The BIM Modelers:
They are the oil of the machine. They can be from different disciplines but should know and be updated with relevant BIM software like AutoCAD, Revit, Autodesk etc. The skill level of the BIM modeler is specific to the project but of course time and experience only makes the skills better.
4. BIM Technology:
There are two things BIM technology includes. The necessary hardware like dual monitors, faster workstation, high speed internet. The software includes AutoCAD, Revit, Tekla etc. In both there needs to be a track of constant upgrades and hot fixes. Each organization needs to correctly understand their technology needs because overestimation may lead to unnecessary expense.
Conclusion:
Building Modeling Services offered by any AEC company are only as good as the BIM team that makes it. Looking into the future of design in the industry, it makes a lot of sense for large and small companies to invest in a strong BIM Team and technology.
Bhagwati Pathak