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Best Practices for Successful BIM Coordination

Author : TrueCADD Engineering | Published On : 22 Apr 2024

BIM coordination is the process of ensuring that all the different models and elements of a building design are compatible and clash-free. It involves collaboration between architects, engineers, contractors, and other stakeholders to identify and resolve any conflicts or issues before construction begins.

In this article, we will discuss the best practices for successful BIM coordination and how it can benefit your project.

What is BIM Coordination?

BIM coordination is the process of integrating all the different models and elements of a building design into a single, coordinated model. This allows for a more efficient and accurate project planning and execution, reducing the risk of errors and rework during construction.

The Importance of MEP BIM Coordination Services

MEP (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing) systems are an essential part of any building design, and coordination between these systems is crucial for the success of a project. MEP BIM coordination services involve the integration of MEP systems into the overall BIM model, ensuring that all the different systems work together seamlessly.

MEP BIM coordination for contractors can help identify and resolve any clashes or conflicts between different MEP systems, reducing the risk of costly rework during construction. It also allows for better coordination between different trades, leading to a more efficient construction process.

Best Practices for Successful BIM Coordination

  • Start Early

BIM coordination should begin as early as possible in the project timeline. This allows for more time to identify and resolve any clashes or issues, reducing the risk of delays during construction.

Starting early also allows for better collaboration between different disciplines, as changes can be made and communicated more effectively before construction begins.

  • Use Virtual Design and Construction (VDC)

Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) is the process of creating a 3D BIM model of a building before construction begins. This allows for better visualization and coordination between different disciplines, reducing the risk of errors and rework during construction.

VDC also allows for better communication and collaboration between different stakeholders, as everyone can view and work on the same model.

  • Utilize BIM Coordination Software

BIM coordination software, such as Revit®, Navisworks®, and BIM 360® can greatly improve the coordination process. These tools allow for clash detection, model comparison, and collaboration between different stakeholders.

BIM coordination software also allows for the creation of clash reports, which can help identify and resolve any issues quickly and efficiently.

  • Establish a BIM Management Plan

A BIM management plan outlines the processes and procedures for BIM coordination on a project. It should include roles and responsibilities, communication protocols, and a schedule for coordination meetings.

Having a BIM management plan in place ensures that everyone is on the same page and helps to streamline the coordination process.

  • Conduct Regular Coordination Meetings

Regular coordination meetings are essential for successful BIM coordination. These meetings allow for the discussion of any clashes or issues and provide an opportunity for stakeholders to ask questions and provide input.

It is important to have representatives from all disciplines present at these meetings to ensure effective communication and collaboration.

  • Use Clash Detection Tools

Clash detection tools, such as clash detection in Autodesk Navisworks, can help identify and resolve clashes between different elements in a BIM model. These tools use clash detection algorithms to scan the model for any conflicts and provide a visual representation of the clashes.

Using clash detection tools can save time and reduce the risk of errors during construction.

  • Implement a Quality Control Process

A quality control process should be implemented to ensure that all models are accurate and clash-free. This process should include regular model checks and reviews to identify any issues that may have been missed during the coordination process.

Having a quality control process in place can help prevent costly rework and delays during construction.

  • Utilize BIM 360 Model Coordination

BIM 360 model coordination is a cloud-based platform that allows for real-time collaboration and coordination between different stakeholders. It allows for the integration of different models and provides a centralized location for all project data.

BIM 360 model coordination also allows for the creation of clash reports and provides a visual representation of clashes, making it easier to identify and resolve issues.

Real-World Examples of Successful BIM Coordination

BIM MEP Coordination for Middle Eastern Airport Project

In a Middle Eastern airport construction project, a general contracting company in Oman required clash-free MEP BIM coordination. Despite challenges like stakeholder collaboration and shifting schedules, our team leveraged IFC drawings to preempt clashes. We created LOD 400 MEP models in Revit, clash detection in Navisworks.

 With a flexible team and stringent QC, we delivered coordinated drawings promptly, reducing field conflicts and ensuring efficient resource planning.

Data Center Building Modeling and Clash Detection in Revit, India

An architectural firm in Gujarat, India, required BIM coordination for a data center project. They faced challenges with 2D drawings from multiple subcontractors and client-driven design changes. We divided the project into Data Center and Services Building, extracting technical data from 2D drawings to develop a clash-free 3D BIM model in Revit. Ongoing communication and Navisworks resolved inter-disciplinary clashes, ensuring smooth documentation and cost-effective construction.

Who is Responsible for BIM Coordination?

BIM coordination is a collaborative effort between different stakeholders, including architects, engineers, contractors, and other project team members. However, it is important to have an experience BIM partner who is responsible for overseeing the coordination process and ensuring that all models are accurate and clash-free.

Conclusion

BIM coordination is an essential part of any successful construction project. By following these best practices, utilizing the right tools, and Outsourcing a right BIM Partner, you can ensure a smooth and efficient coordination process.

MEP BIM coordination services, virtual design and construction, BIM coordination software, and regular coordination meetings are just some of the ways you can improve the coordination process and reduce the risk of errors and delays during construction.

By implementing these best practices, you can take full advantage of the benefits of BIM and ensure the success of your construction project.