Back in April last year the UK government’s BIM mandate came into force, requiring all centrally procured public sector building projects to be BIM Level 2 compliant, which represents a significant milestone on the journey towards the digitalisation of the built environment.

However, despite BIM being very much the industry ‘buzzword’ many people still do not fully understand BIM, its capabilities or where we are on the roadmap towards Level 3. This was highlighted in the results of NBS’ 2016 National BIM Survey, which revealed that: 41% of respondents are still unclear on what they need to do to comply and 90% perceiving the construction industry as not ready for BIM. So what does Level 2 compliance actually mean, what are the benefits of it and what challenges does BIM face now and in the future? Nigel Blacklock, Technical Director at flat roof manufacturer Bauder investigates.

Introduction to BIM level 2
Until now most organisations have been operating at BIM Level 1, which involves them publishing and maintaining their own data. Level 2 distinguishes itself from this with the introduction of collaborative working, not in the way in which 3D models are shared but how the associated information is exchanged between various parties throughout the delivery of a project.

Benefits of BIM
The adoption of new technology and processes are always going to be met with a certain degree of resistance, however if BIM delivers all that it promises to, regardless of what your role is in the construction of buildings, it will benefit you. The fundamental benefits outlined by the government are lower costs (through the reduction of waste), faster delivery and lower emissions; but beyond this is the opportunity for greater levels of quality control, collaboration, efficiency, asset and risk management, maintenance, sustainability and exploration of ‘what-if scenarios’

Challenges for BIM
The UK is undeniably at the forefront of BIM development and adoption, much thanks to the lead and support of the government, however for BIM to realise its transformative potential further investment and change must occur. One of the key challenges that needs addressing is the broad gap in BIM knowledge and skills across the industry, with 28% of NBS’ survey respondents describing themselves as not confident in their BIM understanding or capabilities.

Bauder & Bespoke BIM
At Bauder they fully acknowledge these challenges, which is why they actively support our clients and suppliers with the development of their own BIM knowledge and objects, as they realise that this can only be beneficial for everyone involved.

Future of BIM
Despite the various challenges highlighted, it is clear that while BIM continues to have the backing and financial support of the UK government it will continue to grow in popularity and adoption both in the public and private sector; with there already being significant evidence of BIM implementation in private housing, offices and leisure. This forecast is supported by the findings of NBS, where 86% of respondents stated that they expect to be using BIM on at least some of their projects in a year’s time.