BIM: The Construction Data Science

Building Information Modeling (BIM) for me is Construction Data Science!

Yes, you have read it right.

The process of learning and understanding BIM turned out to be extensively overwhelming first few weeks, as this domain has no boundaries in terms of scope and creativity. After my research and in parallel, pitching fusion ideas at various forums, I then understood that there is a preset notion on BIM, which limits that it is just a visual 3D model developed on computer which replicates the actual project.

While it is no doubt that 3D model is the heart of the BIM, however, I will talk about beyond 3D models in this article.

To begin with, understanding the name BUILDING INFORMATION MODELING.

Let’s split up.

BUILDING: Building means is not a high-rise tower but building as a maxim which means BUILDING anything and everything. In our context, construction projects including Industrial, Residential and Public Infrastructure.

INFORMTION: The simple meaning is DATA.

MODELING: Using the INFORMATION (i.e., DATA) and creating links & interdependencies to achieve meaningful insights. The scientific integration of various functions which is developed to create, manage, and thereby interpret the construction data is construed as Modeling.

Now, to understand the Construction Data Science i.e., BUILDING INFORMATION MODELING (BIM), I have developed a beginner framework for 3D, 4D (Time) and 5D (Cost) as below:

There could be debate on the phrases and verbiage used, however, it is my understanding. The BIM has evolved beyond 7D, which is not considered in this article.

Depending upon your creativity and desired results, you could use the technology. The market has plethora of software’s which help you to do all the functions mentioned above.

We could also build customized solution integration with the help of Software experts which will cover end to end solutions. Developing an in-house tool for end-to-end BIM solutions will, according to me, will open a very huge market, opening business endeavors and thus job opportunities in years to come.

While Data Scientists have proven that they are contributing towards business efficiency and decision making in all the sectors, a Civil Engineer could also become one, and if not today, the construction industry will also adopt the BIM as a Data Science which is beyond just 3D modeling.  Like DATA SCIENCE professionals wherein the subject is ever evolving which demands upgrading your skillset as a way of life, BIM career professionals are also expected to upgrade their knowledge, skill set and tool expertise in line with the market trends.

It is time for universities and learning platforms to develop courses regarding Construction Data Scientist or BIM Analysts as you may call them for adaptation.