BIM: Value-added Analysis

One of the key advantages of using BIM is the ability to perform value added analyses using the model to optimize the performance of the building digitally. With BIM, digital analysis can deliver immediate and ongoing feedback directly from the model. They allow the design solution to be more efficient, less costly and be of greater quality. The extent of value added by an analysis may differ from project to project, so it is advisable to carry out an analysis which is compatible with the end goals of the project.
Examples of value-added analysis include:

•  Environmental simulation and analysis

o E.g. solar analysis, ventilation airflow analysis ,energy analysis

•  Energy validation to estimate energy usage requirements
•  Lighting design validation & visualization
•  4D construction scheduling and sequencing

o More applicable in Design & Build projects

 Other Additional BIM Services

Due to unique project requirements, some BIM services found in the BIM Objective & Responsibility Matrix may need to be performed at an earlier project stage. It should be recognized that this requires additional efforts from respective Model Authors, due to less data available at earlier project stages.
Examples of additional BIM services include:

•  Creating a BIM model of existing building(s) for master plan site study and feasibility analysis in A&A projects
•  Providing structural and MEP system alternatives based on conceptual massing models
•  Project cost estimates based on conceptual massing models
•  MEP cost estimates based on MEP BIM model
•  Clash detection of Architectural, Structural and M&E BIM models at the Schematic Design stage

 BIM Elements by Model

Deliverable stated in Table 2 include typical BIM elements, such as a door or a window. Appendix A lists these typical elements, categorized according to discipline and sub-disciplines responsible for creating them.

 Properties of BIM Elements

The properties of each BIM element include geometric properties (e.g. length, slope) and non-geometric attributes (e.g. material, fire rating). An example can be found in the “NATSPEC BIM Object / Element Matrix”, which can be downloaded separately from the NATSPEC BIM Portal at http://bim.natspec.org/ . Also refer to Appendix F for the Level of Detail of each BIM element.