No industry in the world remains untouched by digital technology. For the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry, this holds especially true. Technology is making vast improvements in the way general contractors plan and build projects, paving the way for a reimagined future. One technology in particular—Building Information Modeling (BIM)—is leading the way.
BIM is an intelligent, 3D model-based process that helps general contractors become more accurate and efficient. Over the years, BIM technology has grown in its breadth of capabilities, becoming a standard in the AEC industry. It’s not surprising that a study by McKinsey found that 75% of companies that have adopted BIM reported positive returns on their investments.
Thanks to the recent emergence of cloud-based BIM solutions, GCs, designers, and owners can now work together to identify and resolve errors in real time, avoiding costly mistakes and reducing rework. With the rapid rise of project delivery methods like design-build and integrated project delivery (IPD), this enhanced ability to collaborate has become more critical than ever.
BIM technology is key to winning more work in an increasingly competitive industry, while also unlocking efficiencies through a centralized project management system.
Winning both new and repeat business is a necessity for today’s GCs to remain competitive. With digital technology becoming an expectation, not simply a “nice to have,” many owners are now requiring BIM deliverables throughout all phases of construction. This makes the role of BIM in a GC’s workflow more important than ever.
Not only does BIM allow GCs and preconstruction leaders to meet client expectations, it also allows them to go above and beyond to impress owners. If a picture is worth 1000 words, a 3D model is worth 1000 pictures. Showing up with a 3D model when owners are in the process of bidding out work is a game-changer, particularly when the competition does not. It helps build trust and credibility in an industry where reputation means everything.
Remember: many owners that make decisions about the work to be completed are not construction professionals, meaning they are not accustomed to reading plans and 2D drawings. Using a 3D model to visualize what’s happening on the project provides the most value, as it’s much easier to digest for non-specialists.
In our world of modern technology, it is critical that GCs adopt the use of BIM in order to stay competitive.
“Owners don’t have time to go figure out what is being hidden. They prefer to work with those willing to say, ‘I am going to give you every detail upfront.’” - Mike Diehl, Senior VP, Pontikes Development
S&P averages over $500M in annual revenue and is a market leader in K-12 educational construction in Texas. Through the strategic use of BIM technology, S&P has made huge strides in winning more work and securing long-term relationships with owners.
Using BIM, the team has:
“There’s definitely a focus of getting it right the first time, and that’s one of our key differentiators.” - Jake Landreneau, VDC Director, Juneau
Juneau, a GC headquartered in Atlanta, is a prime example of how BIM can be utilized to create a more detailed approach to construction with a strong focus on quality. By utilizing BIM software, Juneau has earned a reputation with owners for staying on schedule, operating safely, and having transparent costs. The result? Juneau boasts over 85% repeat business.
Thanks to the emergence of cloud-based software, BIM has rapidly become the key to success in today’s high-stakes industry—and its benefits go far beyond winning more business.
In our latest guide for general contractors, we explore the top benefits of BIM, including:
Plus, see statistics proving the positive impact of BIM on project outcomes and real-life examples of GCs already benefiting from BIM. Download the guide today!
