BimScaler Blog – Building Information Modelling (BIM) provides a centralised, data-rich representation of a project, enhancing collaboration and efficiency throughout the construction and engineering sectors. However, sharing BIM models often involves challenges like file compatibility issues, data loss, and miscommunication across teams or software platforms.
This article will explore these challenges in detail and offer practical solutions to optimise your BIM model sharing workflows, ensuring seamless collaboration and successful project outcomes.
Let’s get to it!
Common Challenges in Sharing BIM Models
One of the primary challenges in sharing BIM models is the compatibility between different software platforms.
BIM models are often created using specialised software, each with its own file format and data structure. When attempting to share these models with team members or external collaborators who use different BIM tools, you may encounter compatibility issues, leading to data loss, formatting errors, or the inability to open the files altogether.
Another common challenge is the management of large, complex BIM models.
As projects grow in scale and complexity, the size of the BIM models can become unwieldy, making it difficult to efficiently transfer and share them. This can lead to lengthy upload and download times, as well as potential issues with file corruption or data loss during the transfer process.
Additionally, concerns around data security and intellectual property protection can hinder the seamless sharing of BIM models.
Construction and engineering professionals often need to share sensitive information, such as design details or cost estimates, with various stakeholders. Ensuring the appropriate level of access control and data protection is crucial to maintaining the confidentiality of this information.
Technical Solutions for BIM Model Sharing
BIM model sharing can be complex, but the right technical solutions make all the difference in ensuring seamless collaboration. Let’s explore some of the tools and techniques you can employ to effectively share your BIM models and overcome common challenges.
One potential solution to overcome compatibility issues is to investigate the use of neutral file formats, like the Construction Operations Building Information Exchange (COBie) standards or the Industry Foundation Classes (IFC). The BIM data can be shared amongst various software platforms thanks to these open-source formats, which also guarantee that important details are kept safe.
Cloud-based collaboration platforms can significantly improve the management of large, complex BIM models. Version control, real-time collaboration, and model visualisation are all made possible by these platforms, which also let you safely upload, store, and share BIM models.
Here are some of the software you can consider for BIM model sharing, according to BIMTrack:
- BIM Track: This is a model sharing platform that provides a variety of options for effective collaboration in a BIM environment. It covers various model sharing options and even provides a flowchart to help you find the best model sharing option for your needs.
- Tekla Model Sharing: This is a BIM collaboration tool that allows Tekla Structures users to collaborate securely and productively from any location. It allows teams to work on local copies of a Tekla Structures model, and its patented synchronisation technology takes care of the rest.
- BIM 360 Design: This Autodesk product allows you to upload Revit models to the cloud. It also facilitates the creation and consumption of packages, cloud worksharing, and viewing of design changes.
- AutoCAD, Navisworks, Infurnia, Vectorworks Architecture, and Autodesk Revit: These are some of the best BIM software for automation, simulation, web-based BIM Design, coordination, and floor plans, respectively.
- Cloud-based storage and sharing: Platforms like Autodesk Drive, BIM 360 Docs, Bentley ProjectWise, and integrations with mainstream platforms like Google Drive, Microsoft Onedrive, Dropbox, and Box have become mainstays for sharing models and documents in the AECO industry.
Lastly, for data security and intellectual property issues, there are several technical solutions you can try. You can employ strong access control mechanisms, like user-based permissions, document-level security, and secure file-sharing protocols.
This preserves the integrity of your project data and protects sensitive information by limiting access to and modification of the BIM models to authorised individuals only.
Effective BIM model sharing involves more than just technical solutions. It’s crucial to have clear legal agreements in place to protect data ownership, intellectual property, and address potential liabilities. For a deeper dive into the legal considerations of BIM, check out our article:
Learn More: BIM Legal and Contractual Issues: What You Need to Know
Best Practices for Collaborative BIM Workflows
BIM offers incredible potential, but unlocking its full benefits requires careful planning and a commitment to collaboration. Here’s what you need to keep in mind to foster a seamless BIM workflow:
- Lay the Groundwork:
- Develop a detailed BIM Execution Plan (BEP) that outlines your project’s goals, standards, and collaboration procedures.
- Choose a Common Data Environment (CDE) to centralise all your project information, ensuring everyone has the most up-to-date data.
- Make Collaboration Central:
- Schedule regular coordination meetings with all stakeholders to preemptively address potential problems.
- Have a well-defined clash detection and resolution process in place.
- Use clear communication channels to track issues, submit RFIs, and manage any changes efficiently.
- Streamline Your Processes:
- Assign clear responsibility for each part of your BIM model.
- Share Work-in-Progress (WIP) models frequently to get early feedback.
- Integrate quality checks at regular intervals to maintain model accuracy.
- Leverage Technology, Invest in People:
- Choose BIM software with robust collaboration tools, like version control and real-time updates.
- Ensure your team receives comprehensive BIM training, focusing on both technical skills and collaborative workflows.
Adopting these practices will create a more efficient and predictable BIM process, ultimately improving your project outcomes.
Enhancing Interoperability Between Different BIM Tools
Improving interoperability between BIM tools takes a bit of planning but pays off in smoother collaboration.
Start by prioritising software that supports open data standards like IFC and COBie – these act like a common language between different tools. IFC (Industry Foundation Classes) is a neutral file format that allows different BIM software to exchange information seamlessly. COBie (Construction Operations Building Information Exchange) is a standard for organising and sharing facility data during the building lifecycle.
See if your software has APIs; those are like customisable bridges for data.
API integration can further enhance interoperability by allowing different software applications to communicate and share data in real-time, streamlining workflows, and improving efficiency.
Look for specialised plugins to handle specific file type conversions; just make sure they work with your exact software versions.
One such example is Speckle. This software acts as an intermediary platform, allowing you to seamlessly transfer data between various BIM applications that might not natively support each other’s file formats. Speckle simplifies data exchange and promotes collaboration by providing a neutral ground for your project information. However, it’s still important to check compatibility between your specific software versions.
Good workflows are also key – your BIM Execution Plan should clearly define how you’ll exchange files, handle data conversions, and manage versions. Finally, invest in your team’s skills. Training on multiple tools and encouraging knowledge sharing helps your team navigate any compatibility quirks that might come up.
Remember, perfect interoperability isn’t always guaranteed, so be prepared for the occasional workaround!
Maintaining control over BIM model versions is essential for seamless sharing and collaboration. Misaligned or outdated files can create misunderstandings and delays. To learn more about ensuring everyone is working from the correct files, check out our article:
Learn More: BIM Model Version Control: Best Practices for Project Success
Conclusion
Overcoming the challenges in sharing BIM models is crucial for fostering effective collaboration, improving project outcomes, and unlocking the full potential of BIM technology. By addressing compatibility issues, managing large-scale models, and implementing robust data security measures, you can establish a seamless BIM model sharing workflow.
Sharing BIM models effectively can be complex, and presents numerous challenges. From data compatibility issues to concerns about ownership and intellectual property, poor model sharing practices can lead to costly delays and disputes.
Let BIMScaler’s CAD and BIM management expertise streamline your model sharing processes. We’ll help you establish secure protocols, clarify ownership guidelines, and protect your intellectual property rights. Our tailored solutions minimise risks and ensure your shared BIM models contribute to successful project outcomes. Contact BIMScaler today to discuss how we can support your model sharing initiatives.
