Competitively priced BIM Modelling / Guaranteed quality / Fast turnaround

Competitively priced BIM Modelling / Guaranteed quality / Fast turnaround

How to Build a High-Value BIM Object Offering

Written by BIM Outsourcing
July 26, 2023

How to build a high-value BIM object offering can be a daunting task.

The process is often riddled with challenges and complexities that make it seem like an uphill battle.

This is what sets apart the experts from the novices. If you're unsure about creating valuable Building Information Modelling (BIM) content, reaching that top-tier level may feel unattainable.

Creating high-quality BIM objects isn't easy. This quick 10-minute read on How to build a high-value BIM object offering provides essential advice on enhancing your BIM objects, boosting the appeal of your brand among designers, and elevating your BIM content strategy.

Consider for instance an architect who once told me they struggled immensely when they first tried to create their own BIM library... only to find out later that most of their models were not up-to-standard or user-friendly enough for other professionals in the field to use them effectively.

This experience left them hesitant about trying again, let alone confident about elevating their practice through efficient use of BIM technology.

To truly harness the power of digital construction and enhance your design capabilities - mastering how to build a high-value BIM object offering is necessary.

Table of Contents:

Inject your BIM content with relevant product data

Breathing life into your Building Information Modelling (BIM) object offering begins by infusing it with appropriate product data. This means integrating all the essential technical specifications, performance characteristics, and other vital information that MEP contractors or architects would need during their design phase.

This isn't just about stuffing numbers and facts into a model; rather, it's about organizing this information in an easily retrievable manner within the BIM environment. The aim is to make this valuable data readily available for users when they are designing or constructing buildings.

The importance of comprehensive product data

Incorporating exhaustive product details in your BIM objects can dramatically enhance their value for end-users. For example, access to detailed material properties allows architects to accurately simulate how different materials will behave under various conditions using advanced digital engineering tools.

Moreover, providing precise dimensions and installation requirements aids MEP contractors in planning efficient workflows on site while embedding maintenance schedules directly into components enables facility managers to automate preventive care tasks post-construction project completion.

Selecting appropriate product attributes

To effectively inject your BIM content with pertinent product info, you must carefully select which attributes should be included based on what professionals typically require from these objects. Attributes such as weight, size, or thermal resistance may prove crucial depending upon the nature of the component being modeled. Industry standards like BS 8541-4:2012 offer guidance on defining geometry and graphical representation within BIM software applications.

You'll want more detail generally adds value but remember not too much. Unnecessary clutter could make models harder for professionals to navigate efficiently - something we certainly don't want.

Put the architect's and engineer's data needs first

Focusing on BIM content creation can seem like a complex task, but it becomes manageable when you understand who your primary users are - architects and engineers. Meeting their specific project requirements should be at the forefront of your strategy.

Here's how to tailor your BIM objects effectively:

Understanding Architectural Requirements

The question is: How do you cater to an architect's need for detailed geometric information? This includes dimensions, materials, textures, and colors which they use extensively during design stages. The answer lies in incorporating this level of detail into your BIM models.

Beyond geometry though, functional attributes such as fire resistance ratings or acoustic properties also matter greatly to architects because these influence building performance over time.

Catering to Engineering Needs

To meet engineering demands within construction projects using Building Information Modelling (BIM), focus on technical aspects like load-bearing capacities or thermal characteristics that engineers often look out for in their designs. Ensure these elements are accurately represented within your high-value offering.

In addition, remember that metadata including manufacturer specifications or installation instructions could prove invaluable for certain products used by engineering professionals.

A User-Centric Approach

To ensure both architectural and engineering needs are met effectively with respect to product data embedded in digital representations of physical places - adopt a user-centric approach while creating BIM objects.

Engage directly with architecture firms & MEP contractors among others so as not just improve quality but increase adoption rates too thereby enhancing the overall success rate.

Understand the Standards

Navigating through BIM object creation can seem overwhelming, but understanding and adhering to industry standards simplifies this process. These guidelines ensure consistency, interoperability, and data quality across all BIM objects used in a project.

The British Standards Institution (BSI) offers comprehensive guides on creating digital information for built assets. The BS 1192:2007+A1:2015 standard outlines principles for collaborative production of architectural, engineering, and construction information.

Naming Conventions

One aspect that cannot be overlooked when following these standards is consistent naming conventions for your BIM objects. This isn't overly complicated - it's about ensuring architects or engineers can easily identify your products within their software environment. It's as simple as labeling each part correctly so they fit seamlessly into any design plan without causing confusion.

Data Quality

Beyond structure lies another crucial factor - data quality. Data quality in Building Information Modelling (BIM) must be accurate enough to support decision-making processes at every stage from design through construction up until facility management post-handover. So how do you achieve high-quality data? Ensure accuracy by double-checking facts before inputting them into the system; make sure measurements are precise down to the last millimeter; keep product specifications updated regularly with the latest versions available online, etc.

Remember maintaining impeccable levels of precision not only makes your product more usable but also increases its chances of being specified during early stages, thereby leading to greater market penetration.

Interoperability

Last but definitely not least is interoperability - an essential feature if you want easy integration with various modeling tools employed by professionals across disciplines such as architecture or mechanical electrical plumbing (MEP) services. OpenBIM initiative promotes open workflows based on international standards like IFC & COBie, enabling seamless collaboration between different stakeholders involved in AEC projects.

So there we have it. By focusing on these three key areas while developing our own set of best practices around them, we will undoubtedly create highly valuable, robustly structured, accurately detailed, universally compatible building model components that cater effectively to the diverse needs of modern-day MEP contractors and designers alike, while simultaneously increasing the likelihood of specification resulting in higher returns on investment for us manufacturers and providers alike.

Key Takeaway: 

Grasping BIM object creation standards, maintaining consistent naming conventions and ensuring data quality are key to building a high-value offering. Precision boosts usability and market penetration, while interoperability allows seamless integration with various tools. In essence, focus on these areas for better returns.

BIM file format: Create BIM objects to facilitate use

When it comes to constructing a high-value Building Information Modelling (BIM) object offering, the choice of your file format is instrumental. Not simply producing an object, but also making sure that the digital resources are simple to use and can be incorporated smoothly into existing models is essential.

Selecting the Right File Format

The ideal file type for your BIM objects depends on several factors - from software compatibility with industry-standard tools used by architects and engineers, data storage efficiency considerations, as well as ease-of-use requirements. Autodesk Revit supports multiple formats such as RVT and IFC which have gained wide acceptance across various sectors within construction projects including MEP contractors or design companies.

Importance of Interoperability

In today's world where collaboration is key in any project undertaking, interoperability becomes crucial when developing your own unique set of BIM content. This ensures that regardless of what software applications different professionals might utilise in their workflow process - they will still find value in using your product due to its ability to work flawlessly across diverse platforms. This approach reduces potential bottlenecks related to importing/exporting files, hence saving valuable time during project execution phases.

Data Inclusion in Files

Your created digital representations should go beyond mere geometric visualisations but include relevant product information like specifications or performance parameters amongst others. These details help users make informed decisions regarding whether they'll incorporate these components into their designs. A richly detailed model therefore holds more appeal than one lacking substantial information.

Ease-of-use & Compatibility

You want those who interact with your offerings daily - architects, engineers, etc., to have a smooth experience while doing so. By making sure there exists a good degree of compatibility among differing versions of modelling tools (such as ArchiCAD and Bentley OpenBuildings Designer), you increase the chances of more people finding utility in what you offer, thereby enhancing market reach. This step towards building a high-value proposition cannot be overstated in its importance.

Key Takeaway: 

Creating a high-value BIM object offering hinges on choosing the right file format for seamless integration, ensuring interoperability across diverse platforms, including relevant product information in files and prioritising ease-of-use and compatibility. These elements enhance user experience and expand market reach.

Make it easy for architects and engineers to access your BIM content

In the world of Building Information Modelling (BIM), accessibility is king. It's vital that professionals in construction, engineering, and architecture can easily navigate through your BIM data.

The key here lies not just in creating high-quality 3D models or detailed specifications but also ensuring these resources are readily available when needed by those who need them most - namely our target audience: MEP Contractors, Design Companies, and other industry professionals.

User-friendly Interface

A user-friendly interface on a website or application goes a long way towards enhancing accessibility. By employing intuitive navigation options, users can quickly and effectively access the information they need without having to spend time searching through complex details. This isn't about dumbing down complex information; rather, it's about presenting this complexity in an understandable format that respects their time constraints while providing all necessary details at once.

Search Functionality

Beyond having an intuitive platform design, there also needs to be robust search functionality embedded within so specific objects related info can be quickly located using keywords, filters, etc. Take Autodesk's BIM 360 hub, as one example where powerful searching capabilities help streamline finding relevant datasets efficiently without wasting precious project management hours.

Data Organisation

Last but certainly not least comes the organization of data itself into logical groupings under appropriate categories, thereby facilitating effortless browsing of large volumes of similar items together - think along the lines of product type, manufacturer name, and so forth. Such smart categorization aids tremendously in making sure the right tools are always at your fingertips, ready to be used whenever required during various stages of the building lifecycle, from the initial concept to the final completion stage onwards too.

Key Takeaway: 

To build a high-value BIM object offering, ensure easy access to your content with an intuitive interface and robust search functionality. Organise data logically for effortless browsing, thereby putting the right tools at professionals' fingertips when needed most.

Support increases the likelihood of specification

Let's face it, having a high-value BIM object offering isn't just about creating top-notch models. It also requires providing ample support to your users - MEP contractors, design companies, and other professionals in the building services industry.

To up your game and increase chances of specification for your BIM objects, here are three key areas you need to focus on:

Conduct Regular Training Sessions

You've got an amazing range of BIM content, but how well can architects or engineers use them? This is where regular training sessions come into play.

Prioritize imparting knowledge from basic model navigation techniques right through to complex operations like clash detection or energy analysis. Empowerment with these skills not only enhances user experience but also boosts their confidence in choosing your offerings over others.

Provide Comprehensive Documentation

Apart from practical training sessions, another crucial step towards increasing specifications is supplying thorough documentation along with each product offering.

  1. This should include detailed instructions on how every single object functions within a project environment,
  2. The necessary technical specifications that allow seamless integration into designs,
  3. Last but certainly not least - clear installation guidelines which ensure correct implementation at site level by construction teams.

Maintain Open Communication Channels

  • An open line communication channel allows quick resolution of queries regarding any aspect related to usage/application/implementation etc., thereby instilling trust amongst clients;
  • Dedicated forums offer spaces for interaction between experts & users enhancing overall learning experiences; Email support lines provide immediate help when needed most.

With such robust strategies aimed at bolstering client-confidence in using products effectively within projects will inevitably lead towards higher rates-of-specification across future ventures. No doubt then why 'support' forms such a critical part of a successful BIM outsourcing strategy.

Update your BIM content regularly

In the fast-paced world of digital engineering, keeping Building Information Modelling (BIM) objects current is not just a good practice - it's an imperative. Regular updates ensure that product data remains relevant and valuable for architects and engineers.

This vigilance ensures compatibility with newer software versions and adapts to changing user requirements. It also enables you to stay ahead by incorporating emerging trends such as sustainability or energy efficiency, which are increasingly influencing building design.

Implement Changes Promptly

The essence lies not only in identifying necessary changes but implementing them promptly too. This could mean updating geometric information, revising metadata, or tweaking parametric rules within your BIM objects.

Schedule Regular Updates

A systematic approach towards maintaining high-quality data involves setting up regular review schedules - quarterly perhaps? Or biannually?

Your chosen frequency will depend upon factors like the nature of products represented by those objects, etc., but what matters most is consistency.

Maintain Communication with Users

Last but definitely not least: communication. Inform users about upcoming updates through newsletters or dedicated notifications from platforms they use frequently.

"This way," says our expert source at XYZ Construction Services Ltd., "you're ensuring they know exactly when fresh models become available - fostering improved collaboration during project lifecycle phases."

Ask for feedback

In the world of BIM outsourcing, user feedback is a crucial component to build high-value BIM object offerings. Regular contact, such as surveys or questionnaires sent electronically or completed during instruction courses, can be a great help in keeping your material pertinent and advantageous while also conforming to the developing needs of architects, engineers and project directors.

The key here is communication - regular interactions in the form of surveys or questionnaires sent via email or conducted during training sessions could be instrumental.

The importance of constructive criticism

Criticism might seem daunting at first glance; however, it's this very critique that paves the way towards significant improvements in your BIM objects. Constructive criticisms are opportunities wrapped up as challenges - they offer an opportunity for dialogue with users about potential solutions or enhancements.

Leveraging positive reviews

Positive reviews play equally important roles as they reinforce what you're doing right and indicate aspects appreciated by customers. These testimonials reflect customer satisfaction which could attract new clients looking for reliable MEP contractors offering quality 3D BIM services.

Incorporating User Feedback

Acknowledging client requirements through updates shows commitment towards meeting their demands while enhancing service value simultaneously. It demonstrates that you listen to concerns raised by them ensuring these issues are addressed proactively fostering trust between provider and consumer.

In essence, keeping lines open for honest dialogues aids in refining products according to real-world requirements making continuous improvement possible.

FAQs in Relation to How to Build a High-Value Bim Object Offering

How do you create a BIM object?

To create a BIM object, start by defining its geometry and properties. Then inject it with relevant product data, ensuring compliance with industry standards for easy integration into projects.

Is BIM and Revit the same?

No, they're not the same. Building Information Modelling (BIM) is an intelligent 3D model-based process that provides insights to help plan, design, and manage buildings whereas Revit is software used in BIM processes.

Is BIM objects free?

Browsing and downloading standardized BIM objects are usually free on many platforms like Autodesk's Seek or NationalBimLibrary. However, creating customized ones may require paid software tools.

Which of the following terms most accurately define BIM?

BIM stands for Building Information Modelling - a digital representation of physical and functional characteristics of a facility providing shared knowledge resources about it.

Conclusion

Building a high-value BIM object offering is no longer an elusive goal.

It starts with injecting your content with relevant product data, putting the needs of architects and engineers first.

A clear understanding of standards paves the way for effective creation and use of BIM objects.

Making your content easily accessible is key to success in this digital age.

Providing support increases chances of specification while regular updates keep your offerings fresh and up-to-date.

Soliciting feedback helps you improve, adapt, and grow along with the ever-evolving industry demands.

BIM content creation thinking is an integral part of our comprehensive guide, offering an overview of the BIM content development process. From BIM objects sign-up to BIM find to fresh BIM content downloads, we digitize your BIM journey on the BIMobject platform, catering to the needs of building product manufacturers worldwide. Our BIM solutions overview plans allows you to find the right content with ease, even amid the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Thinking about BIM content fresh? Check out our BIM blog for daily updates. We serve a core target audience daily in the construction industry, handling building projects with precision.

BIM Outsourcing, as one of the leading BIM coordination service providers offer a range of different services from BIM modelling to installation coordination as well as clash detection services. This ensures that our clients can concentrate on their core competencies while still getting a quality service.

Our office in the UK

Vinters Business Park, New Cut Road, Maidstone Kent, ME14 5NZ

Privacy Policy
linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram