BIM can be utilized to bridge the information loss associated with handing a project from design team, to construction team and to client, by allowing each group to add to and reference back to all information they acquire during their period of contribution to the BIM model.

For example, a building owner may find evidence of a leak in his building. Rather than exploring the physical building, he may turn to his BIM and see that a water valve is located in the suspect location.

He could also have in the model the specific valve size, manufacturer, part number, and any other information ever acquired in the past like original construction info, service records and other related information.

BIM is a process which goes far beyond switching to a new software. It requires changes to the definition of traditional architectural phases and more data sharing than most architects and engineers are used to.

Depending on what information is added to the model, BIM can be used for:

• Improved communication and collaboration between the project stakeholders.
• Energy analysis and lighting requirements.
• Engineering requirements (including HVAC and structural).
• Simulating the construction project over time.
• Costing and estimating.
• Facilities management and operations
  & maintenance.  

BIM and COINS ERP

As a leading provider of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) solutions to the construction industry, COINS has a broader goal: to tie BIM into the COINS modules so that information flows between coins and the CAD model. Working with COINS clients who are willing to embrace the new technology, development is underway.

The COINS Dallas office focuses on CAD and BIM; it is an authorized reseller for the full range of solutions from Autodesk, the market-leading company in CAD. As experts in the implementation and support of
these solutions, COINS Dallas provides:businesses a competitive edge by tailoring their CAD solutions to fit their requirements.