PLANNING

The advantages of initiating the project using BIM is that the information incorporated into the models can be carried through the entire project life-cycle. Planning is a critical stage as this is where the vision and business goals are identified and next steps are clearly defined.

BIM can be used at various levels during the planning phase.

Programming

Spatial planning & Programming a project in 3D will enable the team to accurately define, analyze and document important parameters like Gross Floor Area and Spatial categorization and relations.

Massing Studies

After gaining the initial understanding of the project site and location, 3D Massing models can be developed to understand the building heights, #number of floors and the general forms. BIM enables the team to do a plug & play analysis of multiple design options.

Master Planning

Analyzing and understanding the site location and master planning aspects of a project will ensure that the design direction meets the local code requirements. This is better achieved by having the site model developed with surrounding existing infrastructure.

Initial Budget & Schedule

Having a clear understanding of the project scale and goals, a high-level project budget & phasing can be developed using the quantities generated from the massing models. Cost per unit area can be used as a good guideline to start with. Budget and the schedule can be better monitored and developed at later stages such as below