BIM, or Building Information Modeling, is a digital design process that uses 3D models to store and provide information about the building or other designed elements. BIM models can include information about materials, quantities, properties, design phases, performance analysis and more, depending on the local standards and the purpose of the model (documentation, quantities, clash detection, fabrication etc.).
The benefits of using BIM are numerous. By allowing real-time collaboration between disciplines such as architecture, construction, plumbing, and site., BIM provides a more comprehensive and well-coordinated approach to architectural design, construction, and operation. This has made it widely adopted amongst professionals of various disciplines around the world.
BIM models can be useful not only for the design phase but also for construction coordination (and for maintenance purposes, and as a result this method is used by other professionals such as project managers, or any other project stakeholder.
Landscape architects, site designers and surveyors can also enjoy the benefits of BIM, and use it to create a better, more accurate, and data-driven design. Today, the most commonly used BIM software is Autodesk Revit® which provides strong modeling and collaboration capabilities for the AEC industry. With the help of Environment for Revit®, landscape architects can enjoy a flexible design and modeling process while achieving a highly accurate result. The plugin streamlines site design by providing features for terrain analysis, grading and slope design, wall design, and CAD collaboration, making it easier to implement Revit for site design.