Introduction
BIM technology is now a requirement and standard in the AEC industry, with BIM consultants playing an inseparable role in ensuring its effective implementation and management!
Research conducted by the NBS as part of its 2020 Annual BIM report found that 73% of construction industry professionals use BIM.
The reason for choosing BIM dramatically increased the adoption rate post-pandemic, and it became “important” to work with a forward-thinking BIM consultant who uses BIM in project delivery.
These professionals will integrate advanced BIM technologies, help line up workflows, improve stakeholder collaboration, and meet project timelines and budget limitations.
When finding the right BIM consultant, it is essential to understand that not all consultants are the same.
They have different skills, levels of experience, and service offerings, and because of this diversity, it’s essential to evaluate each option carefully.
Key Takeaway: This blog will provide 10 tips to help you make an informed choice, and by the end of this read, you’ll know how to confidently select a BIM consultant who aligns with your project needs.
Why Do You Need a BIM Consultant?
How to choose the right BIM consultant who can change your project from good to exceptional?
A BIM consultant stays ahead with the latest developments and tools so your project can use the most advanced and efficient modeling techniques.
Their expertise helps create detailed digital representations of a building’s physical and functional characteristics, which are mandatory for understanding project scopes and requirements before physical construction begins.
Every project is different and has its own set of obstacles. In that case, the BIM consultant always offers a fresh perspective and develops customized strategies that address specific needs.
This same practice is something that in-house teams cannot do because in-house teams highly rely on standardized practices.( which sometimes may or may not work).
Consultants pull off their diverse experience across various projects to devise innovative solutions that improve efficiency and reduce delays.
BIM consultants are experts in creating organized processes that cover every project stage. Typically, their job revolves around three main phases: Strategies, Actions, and Operations.
In the strategies phase, a BIM consultant develops targeted goals and plans according to the project’s needs.
Next, in the Actions phase, they outline detailed workflows depending upon those strategies. Finally, during the Operations phase, they manage the actual execution of the project.
Now, with this structured approach in hand, they will keep everyone consistently involved and aligned, which minimizes mistakes and boosts productivity.
They are also an important link between architects, engineers, contractors, and clients.
Post-construction, a BIM model created and managed by a consultant will perform as a detailed resource for facility management. These models then help maintain and operate the building and can also be used to analyze energy performance and other sustainability factors.
When you bring a BIM consultant on board, you ensure your construction projects will lead with accuracy and expertise, saving time and money and ensuring quality.
Key Tips to Look for in BIM Consultant
Choosing a BIM consultant for your construction project? Here’s what to look for;
1) Level of Experience
Check how long they’ve been working with BIM in construction. ( This is very important)
Now, look for a consultant with a strong track record of successful projects. According to a survey by Autodesk News, 60% of architects and 51% of MEP and structural engineers currently use BIM on at least 50% of projects.
These numbers are forecasted to skyrocket to 80% & 89% within 2-3 years.
2) Strong Portfolio
You can easily judge by looking at the consultant’s project portfolio. A good firm will always have diverse work to show.
You can also see what it has previously accomplished and whether its experience aligns with your specific needs.
3) Up-to-date Knowledge
BIM technology and standards are constantly changing. Ensure that your consultant is up-to-date with the latest BIM tools and practices.
4) Collaboration Skills
BIM projects will consistently ask for coordination between different teams.
Similarly, your consultant must be skilled at communicating and collaborating with others. Data highlights that 57% of projects fail due to a communication breakdown, emphasizing its critical role in project success.
5) Client Testimonials and References
What others say about the BIM consulting firm can tell you a lot. For the same, you can look for reviews or ask for references to hear directly from previous clients about their experiences.
6) Technology and Tools
Ask about the software and tools the consultant uses. The right tools will significantly improve a project’s accuracy and efficiency.
7) Customized Solutions
Every project is different and requires a different approach to deal with the issues.
The best BIM consulting firms provide solutions for your project’s unique challenges and goals.
8) Scope of Services
Check the consultant’s ability to offer the ideation of services you need at the quality and scale required for your project.
Additionally, consider if they can offer ongoing support throughout the project lifecycle, including training and troubleshooting.
BIM consultants like us will include things like :
Scan-to-BIM: Converting laser scans into 3D BIM models.
4D Scheduling: Linking 3D models to project schedules to simulate construction sequencing.
5D Cost Estimating: Using the model to generate highly accurate cost estimates and manage budgets.
Sustainable BIM services: Providing green building services to reduce negative impacts and carbon emissions.
9) Post-Project Support
BIM services extend beyond the project completion. You can check the post-project support and maintenance tasks with the consultant.
It is important to see that they provide ongoing help, such as model updates or changes, and are there to help with any problems or worries that arise after the project is completed.
10) Consider Cost and Budget
When you are ready to build something, it becomes important to know your budget. When choosing a BIM consulting firm, first ask them how much it will cost.
Just because something is costly does not guarantee the best output. At the same time, if it costs you very little, then there is also no guarantee that you will get what you want. So, what matters here? What & how you want.
You can achieve that only when you have an excellent BIM consulting firm that can do a great job beyond your expectations.
Common mistakes to avoid when selecting a BIM consultant
Not Considering the Level of Experience
A significant experience of a BIM consultant can make or break how your project will perform in the future. Of course, we know that you are tempted to go with someone with little experience only because they will charge you a bare minimum. According to industry reports, experienced BIM consultants can reduce project costs by up to 20% due to fewer mistakes and better planning.
Ignoring Past Projects
If you fail to look at a consultant’s past projects, you may choose someone who doesn’t fit your needs.
A portfolio of diverse projects indicates they can handle whatever your project might throw at them.
Overlooking Team Compatibility
BIM projects are pure teamwork tasks.
Make sure the consultant can work well with your existing team. Poor collaboration can lead to project delays, and studies show good teamwork can speed up project delivery.
Skipping References
Don’t skip checking references.
Hear what others say & hear it properly because that really can give you valuable insights.
A survey revealed that businesses that sought references felt more confident in their hiring decisions.
Not Considering Training and Support
Make sure that your consultant offers training and support.
BIM technology evolves quickly, and ongoing support is a must. Without proper training, your team cannot utilize BIM effectively, hindering the project’s progress.
Underestimating the Importance of Updated Software
Obviously, if you keep using outdated BIM software, it will slow down a project.
Make sure your consultant uses the latest software. Compared to older versions, it can reduce modeling time by up to 50%.
Choosing Based Only on Price
Yes, having a budget is necessary & the cheapest option may not always be the best.
Investing in a skilled BIM consultant can ultimately save money by minimizing costly errors and inefficiencies in future.
How to Find the Right BIM Consultant
You can start by looking for BIM consultants online. For the same, you can always rely on platforms like Google and LinkedIn to find professionals or those who specialize in your industry.
Referrals, on the other side, are also best; you can consider asking colleagues, friends, or industry contacts who have worked with BIM consultants.
Next, you can join professional Architecture, Engineering, and Construction networks. These networks always have resources and recommendations for BIM consultants.
Additionally, attending BIM conferences can offer opportunities to meet experts, learn about the latest trends, and gather insights from industry leaders to a greater extent.
Once you have a list of candidates, interview multiple consultants to compare their skills and experiences.
Making Your Decision ( The Final Step)
Follow the steps below to ensure you choose the right consultant for your construction project.
Understand all the information you’ve gathered about each consultant, including their experience, qualifications, communication skills, and proposed solutions.
According to your evaluation, narrow down your list to a few top candidates.
Remember & consider how well each consultant understands your project goals and expectations.
Evaluate the consultant’s ability to provide ongoing support and guidance throughout the project lifecycle.
You can confidently choose the right BIM consultant for your project by weighing all these considerations.
Why Choose Edifice Expert for BIM Services?
When you choose Edifice Expert for your BIM services, you choose excellence for your project.
With over 15 years of combined experience, our team covers the entire BIM spectrum, from 3D to 7D, ensuring effective coordination among all project disciplines.
We have successfully delivered 200+ projects in the USA, highlighting our reliability and expertise.
Our BIM services include Scanning to BIM, 3D Modeling, Clash detection, Revit Family creation, and other related services on platforms like Revit, Autodesk, and Navisworks.
We use unique technical skills and best practices to provide top-notch virtual design.
Trust Edifice Expert to improve your construction projects with our proven BIM lifecycle experience!
Conclusion
Remember to do your research, ask for references, and communicate your expectations clearly.
With the right BIM consultant by your side, you can take the best advantage of BIM and can smoothly achieve your project goals.