THE Scottish construction industry is facing one of the biggest changes – and challenges - in its history.
By April next year, all centrally procured construction projects above a certain value must be delivered using cutting edge 3D Building Information Modelling - better known as BIM.
The upshot is that businesses will not be invited to tender for high value public sector work if they don’t implement BIM level 2 software to design and deliver their projects.
Selective large operations across the region already use BIM but there are many smaller firms who are seriously lagging behind.
Some are still unsure of the implications if they choose not to move forward with the innovative technology – while others have long decided it’s just not for them.
But with careful planning, any business can get on board with BIM.
BIM technology is changing the face of the design process as we know it.
It allows clients to see what a building will look like by creating a detailed 3D virtual model, highlighting potential issues before the physical construction – and cutting costs.
The model not only contains every design aspect of a building, but data holding the properties of its components, its construction and ongoing maintenance.
The database and the way information is shared is as revolutionary as the model itself.
It’s not just a technological change but an overhaul of the whole design process.
But this ambitious initiative - which is more significant than the move from paper drawings to CAD 20 years ago - comes with challenges, which explains concern being voiced within industry circles.
Implementing BIM takes time and money. It entails an entire shift in the design process and this causes disruption to even the strongest team.
The cost of the software and licence fees – not to mention annual renewals - can turn many smaller companies off.
Each member of staff needs training which takes time and removes them from day to day business for weeks.
High spec hardware is a must to run this intelligent software – another significant financial outlay.
There’s no argument the initial set up costs and time implications are significant, yet I would not hesitate to urge any business, with the financial capacity, to think long term and take action now - or they risk missing valuable opportunities going forward.
There are defined phases to reach BIM implementation which will help businesses focus on the end goal.
Support and advice is available from a variety of sources, including a BIM Task Group.
There are also ways to take the sting out of the cost with free products available online.
People have been talking about improving the construction industry for years – and this is our opportunity to do something radical which will change the entire design process.
We’re hurtling toward the BIM deadline but if we work together, it promises to be an exciting time of change.
By using this cutting edge technology we are placing Scottish designers on a global stage.