The output from design teams has changed over the years from hand-drawn plans and details to the use of computer-aided design (CAD). CAD looked to replace drawing boards and improve drawing production.
CAD has more recently developed into 3D modeling design tools, improving the information output, and also improving the ability to communicate, graphically the design to project stakeholders.
A Building Information Model is made up of both graphical and non-graphical data. Objects contained in a model - a door being an object, a ceiling, and column, etc. - can contain non-graphical data such as specifications, dimensions, and operational information.
The levels represent BIM Maturity regarding the ability to use the exchange information.
Level 0: is basically the use of CAD (2D or 3D vector line drawings). We can not consider this as BIM because these are merely drawings using 2D or 3D vector lines. Let's just face it, this is not BIM but it is a progression from hand drawings.
Level 1: With level 1, you start using some tools that allow you to create a smart 3D BIM model. Getting information into drawings in both 2D and 3D. But at this stage you are keeping it to yourself, only sharing PDF or CAD versions of your work.
Level 2: Sharing & BIM Collaboration: it is achieved by uniting the model from different stakeholders on a single platform. This will take place in an online platform known as a common data environment or more commonly a BIM platform, guided by the BIM execution team and supervised by the BIM manager.
Level 3: It comprises an integrated process hosted and fully developed through the BIM platform by all members of the project team in real-time. Right now, there are still professionals which focus on level 2. There are still so many questions regarding the possibility of level 3 in different fields like technology, interoperability, or contractual responsibility.
Multiple associations like the BuildingSMART alliance, governments, and industry representatives are working on making BIM more standardized and technology ready. The IFC formats (Industry Foundation Classes) for example, developed to ensure OpenBIM by BuildingSMART and supported by all countries will become an international BIM standard format for BIM software. IFC has been in development since the mid-90s. It was created to ensure interoperability. Today, it's a format that is not editable but it's been used to exchange BIM data. IFC file can be modified and saved but it will soon be updated.
We will discuss the terminology mentioned in the graph in the coming articles.
Next article, BIM Dimensions
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