So, with a 3D model:
1. Enabling the owner to develop an accurate understanding of the nature and needs of the purpose for the project.
2. Enabling the design, development, and analysis of the project.
3. Enabling the management of the construction of the project.
4. Management of the operations of the project during its actual use.
BIM Benefits
Many of the benefits of the BIM will be viewed as direct benefits, although the largest benefits actually are the indirect benefits. Direct benefits are qualities such as the improved visualization and the centralization of (project) building information. The indirect benefits include the necessity for collaboration and the resulting better project understanding, and the reduction of project risk. Major benefits are as follow topics:
- Visualization
The clearest benefit from a 3D model is the improved ability to visualize (understand) what is being represented. The Visualization actually is an abstraction of the object or idea.
- Elimination
By Virtue of the increased ability to visualize, communicate, evaluate, and coordinate through the use of a BIM, it becomes possible to speed up and improve understanding, coordination, material use, etc., in the management of a building project. The BIM process helps to reduce construction conflicts, construction waste, and project risk (and thus likely also project cost).
- Planning and Preconstruction Phase
Conceptual design and marketing uses will generally require 3D models for visual communication purposes, as well as 5D models to begin developing a cost analysis at the conceptual design stage. Even a very simple model can still serve these purposes very well.
- The Constructability Analysis
This will include an evaluation of the use of materials and systems as well as the analysis of the fabrication, assembly, and installation details of all the project parts. Constructability also includes addressing the layout of the construction site, access for supply deliveries, site preparations (including excavations and backfill operations), the job trailer location, etc.
- Equipment management during production and maintenance
- Increased ability of operator in having quick and accurate access to as-built information of the project.
- An integrated BIM can help equipment manager during maintenance period.
- The model can include information such as letters of guaranty, list of spare parts and their storage location, forecasting useful life of installations and parts, and give recommendations for their maintenance and longer life.