As the construction industry searches for new ways to improve project efficiency, technologies such as building information modelling are increasingly being sought out.
With its potential to improve communication, collaboration and overall outcomes, mature building information modelling (BIM) is proving particularly useful in complex infrastructure projects.
For an explanation of what BIM is, see Building information modelling: An introduction and BIM: A contractual approach.
John Holland Group Manager, BIM Services Donald Cameron spoke to intouch about how utilising BIM in a variety of projects has allowed the engineering contractor company to deliver more efficient, cost-effective buildings and infrastructure.
What are some examples of projects you have utilised BIM for?
We have used BIM on all types of projects, from buildings to civil infrastructure. These have included the Abercrombie Precinct project at the University of Sydney, Sydney Metro and the Level Crossing Removal projects we are involved in in Melbourne.
Do you expect to see the use of BIM increase in the future? 
I think there is an industry expectation that the use of BIM will increase. An increase has certainly already been observed over the past three years. I would expect this to accelerate in the coming period as the technology matures.
Have you found that BIM make it easier for the various contractors/ stakeholders involved in projects to collaborate?
Where BIM software is properly implemented, there is no question that collaboration is greatly improved on projects. But there are varying degrees of capability across the construction industry. For example, structural steel detailers are generally very proficient with BIM, as are mechanical subcontractors, but some other trades are less developed.
However, the main point is that the potential for collaboration to be increased with the use of BIM is great, and I am sure the uptake will only increase as time passes.
What have you found the major advantages of using BIM to be?
BIM provides improved communication, collaboration, design outcomes and construction outcomes. I find that it streamlines the process and leads to reduced waste. There is also long-term value for the infrastructure asset owner or its operator in having an integrated BIM dataset to efficiently operate or manage the asset over its life, be it 20 or 100-years.
What are some of the challenges you have faced while using BIM? .jpg)
There is currently no industry standard for BIM, which leads to varying degrees of capability across disciplines and regions. It is a challenge for the construction industry to adapt to changes in adopting digital approaches to work. Investment is needed across the board to adopt digital technologies and invest time in training employees.
When using BIM in projects, do you work with a regularly updated, federated model?
We generally work with federated models that are updated regularly. This is the backbone to a typical digital workflow. We also use mobile digital devices in the field and these enable further digital collaboration and rapid sharing of information.
Images
1. A BIM model showing elements like piping and circuitry
2. An artist's impression of the Perth New Children's Hospital
3. An artist's impression of the Sydney Business School