BIM and Technology
Richard L. Bowen + Associates Inc. has been an early adopter of Building Information Modeling software (BIM). By using software such as AutoDesk’s Revit, designers are able to construct “smart” drawings that automatically update when structural elements such as windows or doors are added or deleted during the design process. More design options may be considered in a shorter period of time than with a conventional CAD workflow. Other advantages of BIM include 3D visualization, less duplication of effort, better coordination between drawings and schedules across all disciplines, clash detection, and ability to integrate with daylighting and thermal/energy analysis software.
Other technology used by the firm to streamline the project delivery process is the use of project information management (PIM) software. PIM allows us to easily catalog all project-related information. The system allows us to electronically submit, review, and recall requests for information (RFI's), submittals (shop drawings), supplemental instructions to contractors (ASI's), and any other information that might arise. Access privileges to the data can be configured to provide appropriate team members, including the client and subconsultants access to sensitive information while maintaining security where required.
Integrated within this project information management system are scheduling features which allow due dates to be established for time critical items. The system automatically sends reminders to those individuals who have been assigned responsibilities for different tasks and notifies the project management team when time-sensitive items are at risk of causing potential delays.