A.G. Coombs’ Warwick Stannus speaks at Building Information Modelling (BIM) forum
16th Nov 2010
Today, A.G. Coombs’ Group Engineering Manager, Warwick Stannus, spoke with industry representatives at a Building Information Modelling (BIM) forum in Melbourne.
The forum, organised by the Air Conditioning and Mechanical Contractors’ Association (AMCA), aimed to develop a common understanding of BIM across all levels of the building services supply chain, with the view to developing an industry level roadmap to implement Building Information Modelling and Integrated Project Delivery.
BIM is the development of a 3D model of building structure, architecture and services which can be used for services coordination, project programming, cost control and facilities management. Warwick likened the challenges associated with the introduction of BIM technology to the introduction of internet banking in Australia, where collaboration between the major players was imperative to ensure operability. As with internet banking, a myriad of challenges relates to the establishment of industry standards, engagement of the supply chain and technology impediments associated with proprietary software and lagging functionality.
Despite these challenges, Warwick argued that the Australian industry is well placed to drive a solid BIM foundation through alignment of the key industry players including head contractors, consultants, sub-contractors and suppliers.
“Like any successful change, there needs to be three ingredients; Dissatisfaction with the current way of doing things, a Vision for improvement and a Plan to deliver change for the better. Dissatisfaction is predominantly due to waste in the current process. The vision is clear; to develop an industry level BIM standard. The plan will be well-articulated with a roadmap for the implementation of standardised BIM software, content and workflows”.
When all three ingredients are properly addressed, BIM will enable better site coordination and reduced variations; it will support the use of prefabrication, reducing project delivery times; and importantly it will provide a valuable tool for lifecycle management and efficient operation of the building.
For further information on the proposed BIM MEPAUS system, please contact:
Warwick Stannus
A.G. Coombs Advisory Pty Ltd
t:+61 (3) 9248 2700
e: wstannus@agcoombs.com.au