Building information modeling is a process involving the generation and management of a digital three-dimensional representation of the physical and functional characteristics of a building, used as a shared knowledge resource for design, construction and facility management decisions.
What is Building Information Modeling?
Building information modeling, commonly known as BIM, is a process for creating and managing digital information about a building or other built asset throughout its lifecycle.
BIM can combine geometric information with information about the physical and functional characteristics of building elements. This allows project participants to use a shared digital representation when developing, coordinating and managing building projects.
What is a BIM model?
A BIM model is a digital representation of a building that can contain both geometric and non-geometric information.
Unlike a simple three-dimensional drawing, a BIM model can associate building elements with information about their properties, relationships and characteristics.
The information contained in a BIM model can support different stages of a project, including design, construction and facility management.
How is BIM used?
BIM can be used to support a range of activities during the building lifecycle, including:
- Developing and communicating design information.
- Coordinating building components and disciplines.
- Identifying potential conflicts between building elements.
- Supporting construction planning and documentation.
- Managing information about building assets after construction.
The specific information included in a BIM model depends on the requirements of the project and the stage of the building lifecycle.
BIM and building design
BIM can support the development, coordination and communication of building information between project participants.
For building designers and other professionals involved in a project, BIM can support the development and coordination of design information before construction begins.
BIM does not replace the need for drawings, specifications, approvals or other project documentation where those are required.
BIM and the building lifecycle
One of the key characteristics of BIM is that building information can be managed beyond the initial design stage.
Information developed during design and construction can potentially support later activities such as operation, maintenance and facility management.
The usefulness of this information depends on how the BIM process is structured and what information is created and maintained throughout the project.
Related terms
Official resource
Australian Government — National Guidelines for Infrastructure Project Delivery