In our last BIM article, nosotros discussed the concern value proposition of a existent, 3D Building Information Modeling (BIM) workflow. Side by side, let's roll up our virtual sleeves and talk almost the benefits of conventional 3D BIM vs historic 2D drafting workflows. We'll compare both workflows at the functional level, in terms of the phases and the deliverables.

Five cardinal differences in a 3D BIM workflow:

Automated management of project documentation

In a 2d drafting workflow, the output drawings are independent DWG files, with many dependent external reference files (XREFs). These files are typically organized into canvass sets and managed file-by-file. As changes are fabricated to the design, documentation updates are managed manually. Ensuring the integrity of each view of every drawing in a canvass set becomes a circuitous process with high potential for documentation errors.

In a 3D BIM workflow, the building model and metadata are stored in a database.

This database is managed automatically, as are the sheet sets that make upwards the final drawing deliverables. Changes to the 3D BIM model trigger updates to all generated drawing views, automatically. The changed cartoon views are flagged for detailed review, helping to ensure sheet set accuracy and integrity.

(In the industry-leading BIM product, Autodesk® Revit, the entire BIM database is held within a single (often enormous) file. BricsCAD's 3D BIM workflow uses DWGs and XREFs in a unique, managed approach that allows easy multi-user access to a BIM.)

Design capture via 3D massing and study models

In most 2d drafting based workflows a combination of maquettes, hand drawings and renderings are used every bit visuals when pitching a conceptual blueprint to a customer. Over the final decade, nearly firms – including those using BIM systems – utilise surface modeling tools (due east.g. Trimble's SketchUp) to create and return study models. Creating 3D study models tin help designers create very plausible, high fidelity renderings for customer approval.

Regardless of the drafting methodology in use, 3D massing and written report models are used beyond the earth.

While well-nigh every 3D BIM workflow includes the ability to create concept designs directly in the BIM editor, the utilize of more than flexible tools (again, SketchUp) is frequently seen. Downstream BIM technicians are then responsible for the conversion of the study model into a CAD-accurate BIM. A primal complaint regarding tools similar SketchUp is that they allow the design of non-buildable structures. These "fantasy buildings" consist of surface geometry that is aesthetically pleasing but which just cannot exist built. If it can't be built, it cannot exist represented every bit a feasible 3D edifice data model, hence the disdain for these "split" concept workflows.

(BricsCAD's 3D BIM workflow starts in existent, solid 3D models to ensure buildability, and we don't demand BIM technicians, ever.)

A building design using BIM technology

Smoother movement from concept to detailed design

After client approval, users of 2nd drafting workflows ofttimes "dissect" their 3D study models to assist in the cosmos of drawing views. Because of limitations of conceptual surface modelers, the transferred geometry is often limited to elementary exterior elevations and plan views. The accurateness of the study model is often suspect, also. It'due south generally simpler and safer to just start each cartoon sheet from scratch.

In 3D BIM, when external modeling tools are used to create study models, the approved model is handed over to a BIM technician.

The tech works to translate the study model into a valid BIM model. Unfortunately, depending on the extent of any inaccuracies in the schematic model, this can exist a "start from scratch" episode, also. These inaccuracies in the study model, which was created only for visualization purposes, cripple it for re-use. When you carry these "bad numbers" forward into the BIM, it's always a bad idea, because a BIM must be CAD-authentic.

(BricsCAD BIM is different. You never need to showtime over from scratch, and it's always CAD-authentic. Discover out more in our 3D BIM workflow article.)

Automated updates of construction drawings

Express connections exist between project files in a 2D drafting workflow. Individual drawings are probable grouped into sheet sets, but dependencies between drawing files and their XREFs are managed manually. Because of this need for manual direction, in essence, each private DWG file is a stand-alone entity.  Too, each sheet is fix up manually. The views are created, organized and annotated 1 at a time. The potential for error through missed updates on changes is very loftier.

In the 3D BIM image, there is high integration between all of the files in the projection.

Generated BIM sections (plan views, elevations, room sections, et al) are the source for the views on the projection's drawing sheets. Because of the "information centricity" of a BIM, changes made to the model ripple across all sheets automatically. Also, the software volition also highlight changed sheets for closer manual review.

A section of the BIM design of a building

Minimized potential for human error

Sounds like a absurd ring proper name, correct? Perchance the truth is that in 2d, bad things can happen considering of a lack of data continuity. And they do, oft. More drawings have to be checked more frequently, and errors tin creep in. Misses can cost a lot more afterward, later the structure documentation fails to reflect your blueprint perfectly.

Alter your BIM and all associated drawings update. An integrated BIM means fewer drawings need to be checked each fourth dimension considering the focus is the modify, not the downstream effects of the design alter. This frees you to do what y'all exercise all-time, and lets you lot use your computer to exercise what it does best – aid collect and manage your design decisions.

Learn more almost our unconventional arroyo to 3D BIM workflows with BricsCAD BIM.

Related blog posts:

1) Why apply BIM
2) 3D BIM vs 2D drafting workflows (current article)
3) BricsCAD'south Powerful 3D BIM Workflow