BIM design verification: a complete guide for professionals

Introduction

Building information modelling (BIM) has revolutionised the construction sector, offering an integrated digital approach to the design, construction and management of buildings and infrastructure. Checking BIM projects is a fundamental step in ensuring the quality, reliability and consistency of information models.

In this article, we look in detail at the following aspects

• What is BIM project checking?
• Why is BIM project checking important?
• What are the different types of BIM project checking?
• How is BIM project checking carried out?
• What are the benefits of BIM project checking?
• Tools and software for BIM project checking

What is BIM project checking?

BIM project checking is a systematic control process that aims to assess the quality, accuracy and consistency of an information model against specific requirements and standards. It covers several aspects, including:

• Geometry: checks that the 3D modelling is correct and consistent.
• Information: checks the completeness, accuracy and consistency of the data associated with the model.
• Logic: checks the model's compliance with business rules and design specifications.
• Interoperability: checks that the model can be exchanged and used with other software and systems.

Why is BIM project checking important?

BIM project checking is essential for several reasons:

• It improves project quality: identifying and correcting errors and inconsistencies at the design stage reduces costs and the risk of errors during construction.
• It increases the reliability of the model: a checked model ensures reliable data for analysis, simulation and design decisions.
• It improves collaboration between teams: checking makes communication and collaboration easier between the different teams involved in the project.
• It reduces time and costs: checking in advance avoids delays and additional costs during construction.

What are the different types of BIM project checking?

There are several types of BIM project checking, which can be classified by different criteria:

• Purpose: compliance checking (against standards and regulations), quality checking (against project requirements), interoperability checking (ability to exchange data).
• Level of detail: global checking (of the complete model), specific checking (of individual components or subsystems).
• Project stage: concept design checking, final design checking, detailed design checking.

How is BIM project checking carried out?

BIM project checking can be carried out manually or with the help of specific software. The checking process typically includes:

• Defining the checking criteria: identifying the requirements and standards to apply.
• Planning the check: defining the checking activities, roles and responsibilities.
• Carrying out the check: data collection, model analysis, identification of errors and inconsistencies.
• Documenting the check: recording the results of the check and the corrective actions taken.

What are the benefits of BIM project checking?

BIM project checking has many benefits:

• Better project quality: fewer errors and inconsistencies, a more reliable model.
• Lower costs: prevention of delays and additional costs during construction.
• Better collaboration: easier communication and information sharing between teams.
• Better decision-making: reliable data for analysis, simulation and design decisions.

Tools and software for BIM project checking

There are various tools and software for BIM project checking, including:

• BIM modelling software: Revit, Archicad, Tekla Structures.
• BIM model checking software: Solibri Model Checker, Navisworks Manage, Autodesk BIM Collaborate.
• Quality control tools: BCF (BIM Collaboration Format), IFC (Industry Foundation Classes).