The BIM methodology involves the coordination of different technologies for project management through a single 3D digital model that shortens the times of both the design and the production, and therefore it reduces costs. It also implies a new way of coordinating the different teams involved, improving the quality of the engineering projects, architecture and construction.

In this article we will disaggregate the changes that have taken place in the working and project development methods, optimizing the process, streamlining phases of the project and achieving a more linear and collaborative workflow.

In the early stages, where the project evolves and is being generated, the BIM methodology helps us to easily extract floors and sections from a single 3D model. This model is the germ of the project and thanks to the various displays, it allows the understanding of the different proposals by the customer and by our own team, and all that in real time.

Because of the importance of the project’s implementation on its place and its adaptation to the environment, is valuable the information we can get about the energy evaluation of the building. In this way from the initial phases comparatives of different sustainable solutions are generated, allowing us to select the most appropriate from the conceptual phase. For this, we use the BIM model to study the optimum orientation of the rooms, the amount of solar radiation and lower environmental impact (6D). We may, if necessary, export the model to specific tools that complement the information obtained from the native model.

The coordination of the design team begins gaining importance in the intermediate stages. From the start, domains and the ability to modify the different design elements of each team member, should be managed. BIM model and an open environment, enables various design teams simultaneously design different parts of the project, without getting interference and expediting the process.

During the most advanced stages of the design, the use of open standards allows the use of the best specific tools in the calculation and sizing of structures and facilities. First of all, the export to IFC of the architectural model allows engineers to import into their programs modelling and analysis for evaluation and approval by the project coordinator. Subsequently BCF file sharing enables the transmission of comments and observations as well as tracking the modifications to the project that facilitates its traceability.

The IFC files are also used to federate or integrate the different partial models of the project, and check the degree of collisions between them. By using verification tools we detect in advance possible anomalies that may cause conflict later in work, and thus avoiding more costly changes during the execution of the work.

Some unique elements require special attention during the development of the projects. To do this, we can look at design options thanks to the use of parametric tools. With them we can investigate and compare in detail alternatives that allow us to choose the most convenient solution for our client. These tools are used to develop facades, finishes and even unique elements in the interior design phase through the use of interoperable formats we can design exclusive and unique furnishing that adds value to the proposal.

When it comes to elaborate the work’s documentation, the use of BIM methodology ensures the correct coordination between the three-dimensional model (3D), the two-dimensional planes exported to various formats (2D). Likewise, the use of displays of the model – with specific applications for mobile devices – allows a much more completed and updated reading of the project. This information is always at the disposal of work team and the client. Finally, we can also export the IFC file model to measurement and budgeting programs (5D) and also simulation, planning and construction management (4D) to complete the information that we can extract from the model. Once the project is built, the BIM model can still be used to carry out the comprehensive management of services and building maintenance (7D).

The BIM methodology is definitely not a technological transformation by itself is not a software, it is a change of mentality. Interoperability in the complex processes has become essential in the market, traceability of actions and the inherent responsibilities of each participant in development is essential to the smooth running of the project. Customer access to all information in a simple and practical way in real time, is nowadays possible and desirable.