Posted on May 2, 2016
Actually there is and unfortunately it’s sometimes an afterthought.
In today’s B.I.M. arena, along with dimensional accuracy of content, there is a host of other data that should be represented in your content. For instance one of the software packages I deal with on a daily basis is Autodesk® Fabrication CADmep. The dimensional aspect is only a small percentage of the complete data rich content. Some other elements are pricing, material, labor, connectivity, insulation specifications, hanger specifications… etc. You’re not dealing with pretty pictures anymore. If you truly want to practice B.I.M., you had better make sure the “I” (information) is represented as well.
It may take more time upfront, gathering the necessary data to complete the content, but in the end you’ll be rewarded with a data rich model that not only looks great but also provides a wealth of information regarding estimating, ordering, construction and eventually maintenance.
Keep plugging away!
