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Building Information Modelling (BIM)

With the increasing need for efficiency and the ever advancing pace of technology, BIM is becoming more established within the property and construction markets to capitalise on the benefits it presents.

So what is BIM?

Building Information Modelling (BIM) is a design process or methodology to manage building data throughout the building life cycle. The intention of BIM is to:

  • Increase productivity/efficiency
  • Improve sustainability
  • Facilitate collaboration
  • Mitigate risk
  • Imrove communications/coordination

Typically 3D, it is a transformational strategy for the property market.

Demo showing location data useage within BIM

This is an example of Ordnance Survey data being used in a BIM environment. We are able to provide this video clip courtesy of Autodesk.

How does location data add value to BIM?

  • Location ties designs to the 'real world', to allow shared analysis of data to assess building impact on its environment
  • It supports the decision making process, (for example flood risks, BREEAM assessments)
  • It facilitates better visualisation
  • It facilitates better property management - understanding in and out of building environment
  • It provides a common platform for overlaying disparate datasets for analysis

With location data, BIM enables top down and bottom up analysis and allows scenario modelling to happen, to answer the 'what if' question.  Ultimately understanding risk and allowing better decision making.

Mapping the built environment 

Dr Anne Kemp, Director of Atkins, the engineering and design consultancy, wrote an article in our recent Intelligence publication about Atkins' involvement with the BIM process on major infrastructure projects.

Read the full story 

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For general enquiries, complaints, feedback or suggestions, email: customerservices@ordnancesurvey.co.uk or call us on 08456 05 05 05