GENERAL

What is BIM (Building Information Modelling)?

BIM, or Building Information Modelling (sometimes referred to as Better Information Management), is an integrated process that relies on coordinated and reliable information. It goes beyond just 3D CAD or a single technology application; it’s about creating accurate, coordinated digital design information and documentation.

With BIM, you can predict performance, appearance, and cost, ultimately delivering projects faster, more economically, and with reduced environmental impact. At its core, BIM ensures a single source of truth throughout the project lifecycle. It fosters collaboration by utilising shared 3D models and intelligent, structured data.

What are the main advantages of adopting BIM?

• Everyone works from the same up-to-date model, making teamwork easier
• Helps spot and fix design issues early, saving time and money
• Keeps projects on schedule and within budget
• Makes it easier to visualise the finished building
• Stores useful information for running and maintaining the building
• Helps design energy-efficient and environmentally friendly buildings

Do I need to use Revit to work with you?

No. You don’t need any prior experience. We handle everything on your behalf and provide easy-to-use outputs, including native Revit models, Navisworks, and IFC exports.

Is BIM just for big construction companies?

No – we frequently work with smaller manufacturers, suppliers, and design teams who need help navigating BIM requirements. We ensure you meet industry standards without needing an in-house BIM team.

What version of Revit do you use?

The version of Revit depends on the project requirements, as defined in the BIM Execution Plan (BEP). It’s important that all trades work with the same version because Revit files cannot be saved backwards. We have all major versions ready to use.

We don’t have Revit Families available for our products.

As part of our service, we can create bespoke Revit families or systems to comply with the project requirements. These can be tailored for the specific project or designed for reuse in future projects.

TENDER AND PRE-APPOINTMENT STAGE

We’ve been asked to complete a PQQ or tender form to prove we have BIM support – can you help?

Yes. We can fill in the BIM sections for you or provide supporting documentation to demonstrate you’re working with a specialist BIM team.

How do you price your BIM services?

We provide a fixed cost per project, which includes a set number of hours for revisions. This ensures predictable budgeting and simplifies tender submissions.

We’ve been asked to issue a BIM model – do we need specific software?

No. You don’t need to purchase or use any BIM software. We have all the tools required to manage your BIM deliverables.

What do you need from us to get started?

We need to confirm the product scope. This could be an annotated 2D plan, a bill of materials, or CAD drawings. We’ll advise you if we require anything additional as the project progresses.

Do we need to understand ISO 19650 to work with you?

No. We’ll handle ISO 19650 compliance for naming conventions, file structures, and processes. (See BIM Compliance in the FAQs for more details.)

How accurate is the model compared to what’s installed on site?

We build the model based on the information you provide. If you share site markups or photos, we can update the model to reflect as-installed conditions.

DESIGN AND PRODUCTION STAGE

What’s the project management process like?

Our service follows a clear 10-step journey. It begins with understanding your requirements and ends with handing over a fully coordinated digital model for building management. You’ll know what’s happening at each stage.

How many times will we speak?

• At the start (to confirm scope and goals)
• During regular design reviews
• At project milestones
• At handover

This usually means 4 to 6 touchpoints, depending on project complexity.

What do you need from me?

Primarily clear project details and access to existing plans or requirements – particularly your BIM Execution Plan (BEP).

We’ve received a BIM Execution Plan (BEP) and don’t understand it. Can you help?

Yes. We’ll review the BEP with you, explain the relevant parts, and ensure your deliverables meet the project’s BIM standards.

We need 2D drawings for construction – can you provide those too?

Yes. We can export 2D DWG drawings directly from the model. These can be fully annotated on a title block or supplied for your own editing.

Can we request revisions as the design progresses?

Yes. Your quote includes a set number of revision hours. If more time is needed, we’ll always confirm with you before proceeding.

How do you share files with us during the project?

We use BIM 360 to manage all working and published files. You’ll have access to track progress, review revisions, and download final outputs.

We need to upload files to a Common Data Environment (CDE) – what is this and can you help?

A CDE is a shared cloud platform for managing project files. It centralises all project information, including work-in-progress files, shared data, and archived records, with defined approval stages between them. By using standard naming conventions and revision control, the CDE ensures efficient information exchange.

We can access the CDE to upload or download data or prepare files ready for your team to upload.

CLASH DETECTION

Can you attend BIM coordination and clash detection meetings for us?

Yes. We can represent you in virtual coordination and clash detection meetings. All actions and updates are discussed with you before anything is finalised.

We need to coordinate with another trade. Can you help with clash detection?

Yes. We use Navisworks for clash detection and coordination reviews to identify and resolve issues early in the process.

Can you communicate directly with the architect or main contractor?

Yes. We’re happy to liaise with the wider design and contractor teams on your behalf while keeping you fully informed.

PROJECT COMPLETION

When does the project finish?

We typically join at Stage 4 (technical design), where the design is coordinated with other trades and finalised. After coordination, drawings can be extracted for Stage 5 (manufacturing and construction).

We continue to support you during construction if issues arise or additional coordination is required. Once installation is complete, and depending on project requirements, we can issue an as-built model for Stage 6.

At Stage 6, the final data drop is usually required (e.g., COBie in the UK). We’ll work with you to ensure all data is correctly embedded in the model and compliant with project requirements.

What do I get at the end?

You’ll receive:

• A fully updated 3D model (Revit, IFC, or NWD file)
• A data-enriched model and asset data exports (as required)

We need to deliver COBie or asset information – can you help?

Yes. We can provide COBie-compliant data or embed asset details directly into the model for a smooth handover.

COBie (Construction Operations Building Information Exchange) is a structured method for capturing non-graphical data from the model. It enables the exchange of information between design, construction, and maintenance phases, ensuring standardised data sharing across software platforms.

What formats do you export models in?

We primarily use Revit (RVT files) but can also export to NWC and IFC for coordination. We can export DWG files for plans, sections, and elevations extracted from the model.

AFTERCARE SERVICE

What happens once my project is complete?

Once your project is finished, we’ll provide all agreed deliverables in the required formats. If post-completion updates are needed, just contact us – we’re happy to assist.

Do you offer aftercare?

Yes. We can help with model updates, additional drawings, or preparing COBie data and asset information for handover. If your project scope evolves or you need ongoing support, we’re here to help.