Optimizing Survey Data with BIM

A finished building is a combination of dozens of distinct assets like structural support, utilities, and more. As these individual parts of the project are designed, manufactured, and installed, keeping the relevant information organized becomes increasingly complex. Many projects have successfully implemented BIM to help with capturing and analyzing data.

McClure can take advantage of BIM to help with your next project. Whether you want a precise level of detail for the surveying process or comprehensive 3D models, our engineers will use BIM to ensure your specifications are met.

Improve Construction Project Management with BIM

BIM is more than a tool or piece of software; it’s an innovative way to manage the complex assets of construction projects. BIM prioritizes geospatial data and uses digital tools to design and construct building assets. These tools help manage these assets across different teams and as construction progresses.

Effective use of BIM should also highlight collaborative efforts between surveyors, engineers, contractors, and other key staff. The more transparency between professionals, the easier it is to manage assets both complete and still in progress. For example, let’s say an engineer needs to consult a contractor on the best way to use a finished asset. BIM’s collaborative communication will minimize the risk that the contractor misunderstands the engineer’s instructions.

Surveying with BIM

BIM’s effectiveness at managing 3D assets makes it an ideal tool for surveys. Once the engineer has an idea of what data the client wants from the survey, they can adapt how the data is captured or organized. BIM is then combined with digital 3D modeling tools like Revit to turn the information into visualized assets.

McClure can capture data for 3D modeling in a variety of ways. We lead the industry in trying and integrating new tools, like the use of unmanned drones for surveying. With LIDAR or photogrammetry, McClure’s drones can quickly capture huge sums of data. Our engineers will then use BIM to optimize how the data is transformed into a finished 3D model.

Why Does BIM Affect the Survey Process?

BIM streamlines communication between every stage of a construction project as well as between teams. A key part of making this work is deciding ahead of time what format important data is kept in. That way, each team or key staff member can get what they need to make the data usable.

This also affects how the information is collected in the first place. Because BIM is often used for 3D modeling, surveyors will want to use tools capable of meeting the client’s preferred level of detail, such as 3D High-Definition Scanning. Otherwise, the 3D render may not reach the level of detail required.

How McClure Makes the Most of BIM for Your Project

Let’s provide another example. McClure engineers used BIM when surveying a large data center facility. The client wanted visual models of the electrical and HVAC utility systems, including detailed renderings of wiring, cables, and piping. McClure integrated BIM with the surveying process, collecting all the data needed to render comprehensive models in a compatible CAD file.

Where We Make an Impact

McClure engineers can help you identify new ways to blend BIM with innovative survey technology. We’ll ensure BIM optimizes every aspect of project management, including detailed 3D modeling.