A new study from Dodge Data & Analytics and Autodesk suggests BIM is critical to digital transformation within the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry.
The study reveals that nearly half (47%) of high intensity BIM users are approaching or near to achieving the goal of digital transformation, compared with just 26% of BIM users generally.
The findings are featured in the Accelerating Digital Transformation Through BIM SmartMarket Report, which provides a thorough overview of how architects, engineers, and contractors are deploying BIM and leveraging the data from models and processes to improve decision-making.
For architects and engineers who use BIM frequently, critical benefits include improved client satisfaction and design quality, risk reduction, and reduced errors and rework.
Contractors with a deeper engagement with BIM also experience crucial benefits, improved win rates, and an increased percentage of successful projects; a reduced number of construction issues onsite; and many cost control, schedule and safety benefits, compared with those who are less engaged.
Amy Bunszel, executive vice president, AEC Design Solutions at Autodesk, said: ”The findings of this report are consistent with what we hear directly from our customers: the greater the embrace of BIM, the greater returns they see.
“BIM is the foundation of the industry’s digital transformation, from design through operations, and as owners begin to look ahead to a digital twin future, all stakeholders should begin their digital journey now.”
Digital transformation
The study also offers insight into where the industry currently stands by providing a benchmark for the use of various digital technologies and approaches in five categories: design intelligence tools, innovative construction methods, jobsite technology, smart building technology, and data-sharing technology.
Among those, the top technologies currently in use among BIM users are cloud computing (42%), model-based simulation (33%), virtual/augmented/mixed reality (28%), 3D printing (25%), and reality capture (25%).
Technologies most strongly poised for growth include generative/outcome-based design (20%), 3D printing (19%), model-driven prefabrication (18%), model-driven simulation (18%), robotics/automated equipment (18%), reality capture (17%), and AI/machine learning (17%).
Steve Jones, senior director of Industry Insights at Dodge Data and Analytics, said: “This study demonstrates that the data revolution is already underway in design and construction.
“As the industry adopts tools like generative design, machine learning, reality capture, and automated vehicles, we can expect to see better performing buildings, more profitable projects, increases in safety, and improved efficiency onsite.”
Image credit: Sorn340 Studio Images/Shuttershock
Read next: Las Vegas to create a city-wide digital twin
Are you a building professional? Sign up for a FREE MEMBERSHIP to upload news stories, post job vacancies, and connect with colleagues on our secure social feed.
