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By Michał Zając, BIM manager/ Senior Architect at Blue Projects

Building Information Modelling (BIM), a technology we use in the design process in Blue Projects, was introduced into the global world of construction over 10 years ago.

BIM is the next step digitalizing the construction process, bringing with it an innovativeness that induces changes in the way of thinking during the design process. The examples of its application all over the world can be easily found on the internet, Heathrow Airport’s third-runway expansion project being among the most prominent ones.

BIM can be defined briefly as a process which allows us to create a virtual data base represented in a 3D model.

It is a computer simulation of the construction process conducted in the virtual environment, enabling us to view the building aspects, including the associated infrastructure, before construction has actually started on site.

While some call BIM a revolution, in Blue Projects we prefer to view it as the evolution. The next step after the drawing board, CAD drawings and traditional schedules and cost estimates.

BIM offers a much wider functionality compared with conventional design techniques.

Why do we use BIM technology in Blue Projects?

We have chosen it to offer our clients the benefits of BIM which are of particular relevance when dealing with big and technologically complex facilities. Founded in 2007, the company has grown globally and delivered hundreds of projects from manufacturing facilities to real estate and commercial developments in over 23 countries including Poland, the UK, Romania, Belgium, Netherlands, Russia or Germany. Our core services include project management, construction management, design & engineering, commercial management, and health & safety management.

Using innovative solutions allows us to continually improve the quality of our services.

The most important benefit to the design process is the efficient exchange of information via a parametrized 3D model.

In conventional CAD techniques, designers deal with a set of lines which make up flat 2D drawings, or simple 3D shapes. But in BIM, the designer uses objects, such as doors, walls, floor slabs and foundations, whose physical properties are determined by the input parameters.

Working with 3D models that are parametrized in this way, we can effectively conduct the process of inter-disciplinary co-ordination. This enables us to eliminate problems that could otherwise emerge on site. Such problems – such as when pipework clashes with wiring or pillars – give rise to additional, often massive, unforeseen costs.

The output documentation, necessary for the process of gaining planning permissions, results from work on the parametrized model.

Using this technology and the 3D environment helps the client understand all the key aspects of the design; in this way the client becomes actively and effectively involved in the design process.

When used in combination with virtual reality (VR) technology BIM models enable the client to visualize the project from the earliest stage of design.

At the construction stage in turn, BIM technology enables the entire project documentation to be compiled in one place. In this way, having the as-built database stored in a 3D model containing all the information representing the actual situation, we avoid data fragmentation, which is all too easy with paper documents scattered across individual files and folders.

Easy retrieval of this information is of essence when it becomes necessary to introduce changes during the premise’s operation.

These are just a few benefits offered by BIM. Just like with any other sophisticated technology, appropriate level of standardization and implementation of processes to guide the actions of BIM users are indispensable to make the most of its capabilities.

In projects with BIM, we apply US and UK practices and standards. At the same time, we always work according to our client’s standards and requirements.

Over the years, BIM is becoming a more and more popular tool used in delivering construction projects. What makes us stand out next to our competitors using BIM technology?

Blue Projects is distinguished by combining the work of construction engineers of different design disciplines with the work of process engineers within a single project team.

In our design work we place focus on interoperability. Interoperability means, to put is as simply as possible, using BIM models to combine various data exchange formats.

In our efforts we are assisted by sophisticated design tools which, when used by trained personnel, ensure obtaining effective solutions.

This allows us to claim our position as a leader among design engineering companies using innovative technologies in the design process.

One of our key projects is the design of expansion of a manufacturing site located in central Poland. In this case BIM technology was used in the design process and will continue to be used during construction.

One large completed project in Romania is that for a renowned furniture retailer, covering 67,000m2, including a furniture department store, a commercial building including auxiliary logistics, storage, restaurant, offices and technical areas.

At Blue Projects we say that difficult paths often lead to marvelous destinations. Using BIM technology in our day-to-day work is one of such difficult paths. One could ask why it is so important for us to follow this avenue.

The answer is, there is no other way! Technological progress allows for, and indeed necessitates continuous adaptation to changing conditions. And we are committed to continuous development!

About Blue Projects: 

Blue Projects is a fast-growing engineering design and project management company, with extensive cross-industry experience. The company has successfully delivered a wide range of projects, from manufacturing facilities to real estate and commercial developments.

Founded in Romania in 2007, Blue Projects has grown globally and completed hundreds of projects for blue-chip clients, in over 24 countries. At present, the offices are located in Romania, Poland, Belgium, Netherlands, UK, Russia, Germany, South Africa, Republic of Moldovia, France and North America.

Phone: +40 21 3504 405
Email:   office@blueprojects.com
Website: www.blueprojects.com