Everything You Need to Know About BIM Software in Modern Construction

What is BIM (building information modeling) in construction?

BIM stands for Building Information Modeling. The term building here is generic and also includes infrastructure.

It is difficult to find a definition of Building Information Modeling accepted by all. BIM, the verb, is mainly working methods or processes including a 3D parametric digital model that contains intelligent and structured data. Building Information Modeling is the sharing of reliable information throughout the life of a building or infrastructure asset, from their design to their demolition. The model is a digital representation of the physical and functional characteristics of a building or infrastructure asset.

BIM (Building Information Modeling) is often related to software. BIM as such is more than that. But there are many software programs that are part of BIM. What is BIM (Building Information Modeling)? Read this article to learn more about BIM.

What is BIM software and technology?

Building design and building information modeling (BIM) software is 3D design and modeling software. It consists of computer-aided design (CAD) products. BIM software allows better prediction, designing and improves productivity. The aim of BIM technology is to digitize the AECOO industry (Architecture, Engineering, Construction, Owner Operator).

There are different types of BIM technology and software according to the different phases throughout the asset’s life cycle, from conception to completion.

In the design phase, the software allow to realize the design, but also to analyze and document the procedures. They are divided into different groups:

  • Parametric modelling software
  • Object libraries software
  • Design software
  • Clash detection software
  • Visualization software
  • Collaboration platform

Then, in the construction phase, the stakeholders and construction team can share the designs, plans but also the models in 3D and point cloud, and documents through platforms / softwares.

  • Collaboration platform
  • 4D & 5D software
  • On site software
  • Data visualization software
  • Data management software

The last step in the process is the operations and maintenance phase. The data collected thanks to those BIM software can help owners and facilities managers to better manage the buildings. The softwares are divided into different groups:

  • Data management software
  • Building Operating Systems
  • Building Performance Analysis
  • Facility management software

What is the most popular BIM software?

In the design phase

The parametric modelling software

  1. Dynamo
  2. Rhinoceros
  3. Dassault Catia

The object libraries software

  1. MagiCAD
  2. BIM&CO
  3. Bimobject

The design software

  1. Graphisoft Archicad
  2. ACCA
  3. Autodesk Revit

The clash detection software

  1. Solibri
  2. Navisworks
  3. Bexel Manager

The visualization software

  1. VREX
  2. Resolve
  3. Enscape

The collaboration platforms

  1. Catenda Hub
  2. Imerso
  3. Procore

In the construction phase

The collaboration platforms

  1. Catenda Hub
  2. Trimble Connect
  3. BIMPLUS

The 4D & 5D software

  1. Simio
  2. Assemble
  3. Bexel Manager

The on site software

  1. Procore
  2. CHECKD
  3. FONN

The data visualization software

  1. Power BI
  2. Tableau
  3. SAP

The data management software

  1. Viewpoint
  2. Bentely
  3. Bimeye

In the operations and maintenance phase

The data management software

  1. Ajour
  2. Opidis
  3. dRofus

The Building Operating Systems (BOS)

  1. Catenda BOS
  2. Vayandata
  3. Wattsense

The building performance analysis software

  1. IES
  2. Sefaira
  3. Ajour

The facility management software

  1. MainManager
  2. Archibus
  3. YOUBIM

Download the full map of BIM software and technology here to get a complete overview of the market.