How to update your BIM library
In the last seven years, the construction industry has experienced a significant shift towards the use of Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology. BIM is a digital representation of the physical and functional characteristics of a building or infrastructure, enabling more efficient planning, design, construction and operation of built assets. A key aspect of BIM is the use of libraries of pre-designed and pre-fabricated building components, known as BIM objects. These objects contain all the necessary information about the component, including its geometric characteristics, material properties and performance data.
BIM objects have revolutionized the way product manufacturers in the construction industry do business. Previously, manufacturers had to spend a lot of time and resources creating custom designs and models for each project. This process was time-consuming and error-prone, as it relied heavily on manual input and interpretation. With BIM objects, manufacturers can simply extract pre-designed and tested components from their BIM libraries and drop them into the overall project model. This saves time and reduces the risk of errors, as the objects have been tested for accuracy and compatibility.
The use of BIM libraries has also improved communication and collaboration in the construction industry. With BIM, all project stakeholders can access and view the same digital model, allowing for more efficient coordination and decision making. BIM objects are also easier to share and exchange between different software programs and platforms, which further improves collaboration and reduces the risk of data loss or communication errors.
In addition to the benefits to manufacturers and project stakeholders, BIM libraries have also contributed to the overall efficiency and sustainability of the construction industry. By using pre-engineered and pre-fabricated components, construction teams can reduce waste and minimize the need for on-site customization. BIM objects also often include performance data, allowing for more accurate prediction of a building’s energy consumption and carbon footprint.
The development of BIM libraries over the past seven years has had a significant impact on the construction industry. By streamlining design and manufacturing processes, improving communication and collaboration, and enhancing sustainability, BIM libraries have helped drive innovation and efficiency in the industry.
There is a common problem in the construction industry: BIM libraries, which are collections of pre-engineered and prefabricated building components used in Building Information Modeling (BIM) projects, are not updated by the manufacturers who created them. This can lead to problems for construction professionals who rely on these libraries for their projects.
One of the problems that arise when BIM libraries are not updated in conjunction with the manufacturer’s catalog is that the objects contained in the library may no longer accurately represent the products available in the marketplace. For example, if a manufacturer updates the design or specifications of one of its products, but does not update the corresponding BIM object in its library, the object will be out of date and may not accurately reflect the actual product. This can cause problems during the design and construction phases of a project, as the obsolete object may not be suitable for the intended use or may not fit correctly with other components.
Another problem with outdated BIM libraries is that they may not contain the latest product offerings from the manufacturer. If a manufacturer introduces a new product in its catalog, but does not include it in its BIM library, construction professionals may be unaware of its existence and not consider it for their projects. This can limit the options available to designers and builders, and prevent them from using the most appropriate or cost-effective products.
In general, it is important for manufacturers of products in the construction industry to keep their BIM libraries up to date to ensure that the objects they contain accurately reflect the products available in the marketplace and that the latest offerings are included. Failure to do so can lead to problems and inefficiencies during the design and construction phases of a project.
Updating a building information modeling (BIM) library can be a complicated process, especially when the original team that created the BIM objects is no longer involved in the update process. However, with careful planning and consideration, it is possible to successfully update a BIM library and ensure that it remains relevant and useful to construction professionals.
If you are a product manufacturer planning to update your BIM library, here are five key steps to consider:
Collect user feedback: One of the most important things you can do when updating a BIM library is to collect feedback from the people who actually use it. This can help you identify any issues or problems with the current BIM objects and allow you to make improvements that increase the usability of the library.
Review standardization: If your BIM library is standardized, it is important to keep up to date with the latest versions of the standards you use. If your library is not yet standardized, this is a good opportunity to consider doing so. Standardization can help ensure that your BIM objects are compatible with other software programs and platforms, and make it easier for professionals to prescribe on your projects.
The GDO-BIM standard allows to develop and update standardized BIM Libraries for good use within projects and specifying.
Evaluate the update objectives: Before starting the update process, it is important to carefully evaluate what information needs to be updated and which parameters will be affected. Consider whether you need to modify existing parameters, add new ones, or modify the geometry or parametric relationships of BIM objects.
Create new BIM objects: Based on user feedback and the latest updates to your product catalog, you may need to create new BIM objects to represent your latest products. This can help ensure that your library is complete and up-to-date.
Review dissemination platforms: When your BIM library is up to date, it is important to consider how you will share it with construction industry professionals. One option is to showcase your library on third-party sites, which can help increase its visibility and make it easier to access and use.
Bimetica.com platform offers an account to manufacturers to publish their BIM library and other files, and receive statistics to be able to approach potential clients.
By following these five steps, you will be able to develop a clear plan for updating your BIM library and understand the investment of time and money required. This will help you ensure that your library remains relevant and useful to building professionals, and supports the efficient and sustainable design and construction of built assets.
