From data to design: digital construction with BIM

Building Information Modelling (BIM) has roots deep in the history of the architecture, engineering and construction industry. Originally developed to make complex construction projects more efficient, BIM is now an integral part of modern construction management. Its beginnings can be traced back to the 1970s, when the first attempts were made to use computer modeling to support construction projects. In the decades that followed, these approaches were further developed and refined, with technologies such as computer-aided design (CAD) and 3D modelling playing an important role.

With advances in information technology in the 1990s, BIM became increasingly important. The ability to create comprehensive digital models that include not only geometric form but also information on materials, costs, schedules and much more has revolutionised the way construction projects are planned, designed, and managed.

The evolution from 2D drawings to three-dimensional BIM models has revolutionised the design phase of construction projects. But BIM goes one step further by adding two additional dimensions to the model:

The time component (4D): By integrating schedules into the model, precise time planning and monitoring is possible. This allows construction processes to be synchronised and potential bottlenecks to be identified at an early stage. A 4D simulation allows project stakeholders to visually track project progress and better understand the impact of delays or schedule changes.

Cost information (5D): Costs are directly linked to the model. Expenditure can therefore be continuously monitored and optimised. This means that changes in design or execution have an immediate impact on costs. This enables informed decision making throughout the project lifecycle. Linking cost information to the model also allows project stakeholders to compare different cost options and make decisions that meet both budget targets and project requirements.

The evolution from 2D to 5D models makes construction projects more efficient, accurate and sustainable. This is because 5D models provide a comprehensive digital platform that integrates all relevant information, giving project stakeholders a reliable basis for decision-making.

The use of BIM begins long before the first sod is turned: a successful construction project begins with detailed planning. Phase 0, or requirements planning, is the crucial first step. This is where the basic requirements and needs of the project are recorded in a technical specification, known as the Employer's Information Requirements. All specifications are also included in a detailed functional specification. This is where BIM plays a key role: it enables end-to-end digital information management, simplifies communication, and makes changes traceable at regular intervals. This saves time and money.

The end-to-end digitisation of all relevant information creates a virtual model of the planned building, often referred to as a 'digital twin'. This model includes not only the geometric shape of the building, but also the technical building equipment, as well as extensive data on materials, costs, schedules, sustainability aspects and much more. This means that everyone involved, from the architect to the engineer to the contractor, has access to a synchronised database.

The benefits are immense: because schedule, costs and risks are accurately identified, planning is reliable and coordination is efficient. Seamless control is also possible. All changes and adjustments can be tracked regularly and up to date. The risk of errors and misunderstandings is minimised. Digital pre-planning also makes it possible to simulate various scenarios and optimisation options even before the actual construction work begins. This increases project efficiency.

Another advantage is that data from various sources, such as geographic information systems (GIS), facility management systems (FM) or energy management systems, can be integrated. Aspects such as site analysis, operational optimisation and energy efficiency are thus already considered in the pre-planning phase. This leads to more sustainable and resource-efficient buildings in the long term.

It remains to be said that digital pre-planning plays a decisive role in the optimisation of construction projects. This is because it promotes efficiency and transparency right from the start, laying the foundations for successful and sustainable construction projects.

Despite its enormous potential, BIM is not yet widely used. This is partly due to a lack of qualified specialists, but also to the challenge of completely changing familiar processes. What’s more, collaboration in the construction industry has so far been rather cautious, event though it is a basic prerequisite for digital construction. At Viega, we are aware that the widespread introduction of BIM can only be successful if the workforce is trained, those involved are encouraged to work together and processes are revised.

To meet this need, Viega is actively involved in the training of apprentices and qualified specialists with extensive training programmes. These programmes aim to equip the professionals of today and tomorrow with the necessary skills and knowledge to use BIM effectively and develop innovative solutions. This includes training in BIM software, but also in the fundamentals and best practices of digital construction. In addition, Viega is investing in collaboration with educational and research institutions to promote education and training in the field of BIM. Through partnerships with universities and vocational schools, students and trainees are specifically prepared for the requirements of digital construction and gain practical experience through projects and internships at Viega. For example, the RWTH Talent Programme at RWTH Aachen University aims to prepare the next generation of civil engineers for the challenges and opportunities of the digital future in the construction industry.

In this way, Viega is not only helping to train highly qualified specialists, but also to strengthen digital expertise throughout the construction industry. This is essential to realise the full potential of BIM and pave the way for a sustainable and future-proof construction industry.

By integrating sustainability criteria into the design process, simulations can be used to analyse different options and make decisions that take into account economic, environmental and social factors. In this way, sustainable, environmentally sound and economically viable solutions can be identified and implemented at an early stages of planning.

One example of the use of BIM for a sustainable future is Viega's cooperation with renowned institutions such as RWTH Aachen University and the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems. Together, they have laid the foundations for integrated planning with BIM that goes far beyond pure building design. The results range from the seamless integration of building services and operations in BIM to the development of methods for simplifying complex digital models.

An outstanding example of the implementation of BIM for a sustainable future is the modern seminar centre Viega World in Attendorn. The combination of expertise and future technologies shows how a seminar centre can be developed, planned, implemented and operated using BIM. The entire process sets new standards – from planning to ongoing operation. Today, Viega World is recognised across all industries as a benchmark for sustainable and future-proof buildings throughout their entire life cycle. The standards, processes and infrastructures developed serve as a basis for the planning of future projects.

Viega World is regarded as a flagship project in the industry, demonstrating how BIM not only optimises construction processes, but also makes a decisive contribution to a sustainable future. By integrating sustainability aspects into the planning process at an early stage, construction projects can be specifically aligned with environmental, economic and social sustainability goals, leading to a more sustainable built environment in the long-term.

Using BIM, prefabricated modules can be precisely planned and coordinated to ensure that they fit seamlessly into the overall building design. In addition, changes or adjustments to the design can be made easily and efficiently in the digital model before the modules are manufactured. The combination of BIM and prefabrication makes it possible to deliver housing projects more quickly and reduce costs for developers and investors.

Overall, BIM is helping to create more sustainable housing solutions that meet society's needs while tackling the housing shortage. The future of construction is digital and BIM is one key to a new era of collaboration, efficiency and sustainability in housing.