BIM in Construction: How Is It Used in the Philippines?

The Build Better More program continues the government's efforts to build a robust infrastructure to attract businesses to the Philippines. The program is designed to reduce the cost of doing business, remove growth constraints, and also attract investment. This program has fueled construction growth, which is expected to increase by 7% in 2024.

To keep pace with the projected growth, the construction industry must incorporate technology. The Philippines currently ranks 61 out of 64 countries in advanced technology adoption. However, construction firms are looking at technologies like building information modelling (BIM) to improve processes.

As a quick BIM construction definition, building information modelling (BIM) is a design technology that allows architects and engineers to create three-dimensional (3D) models of a proposed structure. It uses a database to provide documents, facilitate collaboration, and manage a project's lifecycle.

How is BIM used in construction? Establishing a single source of information for a given construction project enables a more consistent view for all trades and minimises errors from poor communication. Creating a digital picture allows all project information to be shared quickly, reducing a site's timeline, minimising cost overruns, and protecting construction quality.

The benefits of BIM technology go far beyond the simple digitalisation of blueprints. It also encourages collaboration, improves efficiency, and reduces waste. Making BIM part of facility management, from breaking ground to repurposing buildings, allows the construction industry to maintain efficient and cost-effective lifecycle management.

BIM construction software allows architects, engineers, and contractors to connect in real time. With a shared digital workspace, everyone can access the same information, reducing communication errors and project delays. It also provides a more efficient workflow for reviewing and revising construction or design plans.

BIM allows participants to identify potential safety hazards, minimising the risk to personnel and maximising overall efficiency. The software also helps with clash detection, which could otherwise delay projects. More accurate planning and coordination can result in higher-quality construction that meets all building standards.

Reducing material waste can help keep costs in check and contribute to global sustainability efforts. Engineers and architects can use BIM systems to evaluate building design for environmental impacts. They can identify areas where builders can use more energy-efficient materials and reduce the waste that results from inaccurate plans. With BIM solutions, companies can reduce their carbon footprint while also reducing costs.

BIM construction software allows contractors to see the future. By simulating the construction process, job site personnel can see potential problems develop before construction begins. With more accurate information, construction projects can reduce material overages and address potential errors for more efficient operations.

BIM construction software use cases can extend beyond the construction phase of a project. The comprehensive digital records can be reviewed for maintenance planning, resource allocation, and asset management. Operators can also use the information for better facility management.

The construction industry has lagged behind other sectors in using technology to improve productivity. The ongoing need to balance time, cost, and quality makes minimising cost overruns, avoiding rework, and eliminating poor quality difficult. Like many countries, the Philippines faces several challenges as the government attempts to modernise its construction industry.
The construction industry needs diverse but dependent trades to deliver projects. This fragmentation presents obstacles to communication and collaboration before construction begins. It isn't until the project is underway that clashes in schedule or implementation become known. Late detection can result in significant delays and cost overruns.
Although BIM technology can help alleviate some constraints, it also introduces challenges. Key obstacles to its adoption include:

• Initial Investment. Purchasing BIM construction software can be expensive. Even opting for subscription-based software can cost over ₱100,000.00 for an annual license. Several governments are finding ways to assist private and public projects in using the new technology. Others are mandating its use through their building codes.
• Trained Personnel. The technology requires training, but few educational facilities in the Philippines offer it. Companies or individuals must locate and pay for training. Access to more training would ensure that the country had the resources to implement BIM successfully.
• Market Penetration. BIM companies have not achieved market penetration. Governments may not be aware of the software's time-saving capabilities, and architects and engineers may struggle to implement advanced features.

The learning curve, the cost, and market acceptance are critical obstacles to widespread implementation.

BIM technology could help the Philippines as it digitalises the construction industry. For example, BIM could be deployed in the following ways.

• Complex Infrastructure Projects. BIM construction software can simplify the complex communication channels of large infrastructure projects, making it easier to connect to other organisations.
• Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing MEP). Modelling software allows architects and engineers to view complex subsystems to ensure worker safety and maximise material usage.
• High-Rise Plans. When designers and builders can see the layers that go into a high-rise building before the project begins, they can adjust the plans to ensure compliance with building codes. They can then implement modifications to avoid rework.
• Facility Management. Using BIM throughout a building's lifecycle can help owners maximise their profitability as they consider improvements or changes to an existing structure.

Worldwide, the BIM market is expected to reach almost $12 billion by 2027, an 11.1% increase in compound annual growth rate (CAGR). The ongoing interest in BIM technology and its ability to digitise the construction process will continue to drive technology adoption. For the Philippines, BIM software is a tool that can ensure the country reaches its infrastructure goals.

For BIM-generated plans to be accessible, printed copies may be required. Whether submitting plans or viewing at remote locations, BIM systems need large format printers to generate hard copies. HP's large format printers ensure your well-crafted BIM model is reproduced accurately. Reach out to HP for DesignJet printers, reliable customer support, and maintenance services.

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• https://www.jcvassociates.ph/post/the-future-of-construction-technology-in-the-philippines#
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