In the field of Building Information Modeling (BIM), there are two main methods. These are open-building information modeling and closed-building information modeling. This paper discusses the importance of understanding these methods. This is crucial for professionals in architecture, engineering, and construction. We need to study how choosing OpenBIM or ClosedBIM impacts collaborative work efficiency. This will help us understand why OpenBIM is the better choice.
What is OpenBIM?
OpenBIM is a progressive digital collaboration solution that the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry needs in the coming years. It also enables each stakeholder involved in a building or infrastructure project to share project data in neutral and non-proprietary formats on a neutral platform. Fundamentally, OpenBIM organizes a process that sits above any specific platform or software suite.
The processes involve sharing information. This aids in seamless coordination during project implementation. All involved parties benefit from this process. OpenBIM aims to streamline development. It makes it easier to interconnect projects and assets throughout their lifecycle. OpenBIM follows international standards and working procedures. This enhances the use of BIM beyond just a general conceptual extension. It provides a common understanding and language, promoting wider use of BIM.
Example of OpenBIM
For example, consider the recent NZ$2 billion, five-year expansion of Auckland Airport. This project utilized OpenBIM methodology, enabling integrated design and collaboration among over 30 suppliers. On the design platform, each supplier had the freedom to choose their preferred work processes and software.
Irina Viner-Usmanova Rhythmic Gymnastics Center in Moscow is another example. This project was designed and developed using OpenBIM. GRAPHISOFT, Solibri, and Allplan software products were also used in planning. In other words, OpenBIM establishes a common language that guarantees interoperability and a long-term outlook for the data of built assets. It is a revolution in the construction sector.
What is ClosedBIM?
ClosedBIM or ‘lonely BIM’ is a traditional model whereby all parties involved in the project use the same software from a single supplier. Such an approach may involve different trades using BIM-compatible applications from the same vendor. ClosedBIM means that the data is stored in a format only readable in the application that created it. This means that the choice of BIM solution has to be from a particular software provider. If you want to transfer your data to another software, you cannot ensure that the information will be transferred properly.
Example of ClosedBIM
For example, in a project, the lead architect uses Revit Architecture. They model architectural elements. The structural engineer uses Revit Structure. They use the architectural BIM model as a reference. They define the building’s structure. The MEP design consultant uses Revit MEP. They model the building services element. This is an example of closed BIM. All stakeholders use software from the same manufacturer, Autodesk. This approach allows seamless data transfer within the same software family. However, it can also lead to vendor lock-in. It can narrow the scope of data sharing between stakeholders.
OpenBIM vs. ClosedBIM: A Comparative Analysis
Below are the key differences between Open and Closed BIM:
| Aspect | OpenBIM | ClosedBIM |
|---|---|---|
| Collaboration | Encourages interoperability and collaboration | Limits collaboration to proprietary systems |
| Flexibility | Supports multiple software platforms | Restricted to specific software ecosystems |
| Data Exchange | Emphasizes open standards for data exchange | Relies on closed formats for data sharing |
| Transparency | Promotes transparency and accessibility | Often lacks transparency in data sharing |
| Future-Proofing | Future-proof due to open standards | Vulnerable to changes in proprietary systems |
Key Benefits of openBIM:
OpenBIM is considered the best approach in Building Information Modeling (BIM) for several reasons. They are:
1. Collaboration and Interoperability
It enables different software components to inter-operate. This means that an architect who uses one software can exchange design work with an engineer who uses another software without any conversion or distortion of information. The ability for the data to seamlessly pass from one software to another irrespective of the type of software being used is known as ‘interoperability’. It means that the architects, engineers, contracting companies, and owners of the buildings can share and access the project data easily. This not only saves time but also improves the quality of work. OpenBIM can be regarded as a way to integrate fragmented software into a process to achieve better collaboration.
2. Flexibility and Choice
With OpenBIM, professionals choose the best software according to their needs and working methodology. This means that they are not limited to using the same vendor’s software, but they can choose from a variety of tools in the market. This freedom of choice supports innovation as different teams have the opportunity to utilize the powerful features of the best tools for their work. As a result, OpenBIM expands possibilities and democratizes the software area in the field of the building industry and makes the projects better.
3. Data Exchange and Accessibility
It is based on open standards of data transfer allowing data to be easily exchanged between different domains (architecture, engineering, construction) or project stages (design, construction, operation). It ensures that all stakeholders have access to the project data irrespective of the position they occupy or where the project is in its life cycle. Thus, improving communication, eliminating miscommunication, and making the construction process smoother and more accurate. In other words, OpenBIM creates a single-source-of-truth situation that makes it easier to align the project and improve the overall results.
4. Transparency and Accountability
It requires openness in the data-sharing process which means all project information is open to all participants. This creates an environment where everyone has the same knowledge as the rest to avoid being accountable to the team. It helps when everyone is using the same information to keep each other in line with their jobs. This also eliminates the possibility of confusion or inconsistency, which may result from different parties having access to different sources of information. In other words, OpenBIM promotes collaboration by becoming a central repository of information and bringing into question any conflicts of interest.
5. Future-Proofing and Sustainability
OpenBIM is the way to the future since it relies on open standards. Even as software and technologies change, OpenBIM allows for easy improvements on projects without major revisions. Open standards, designed to evolve with newer technologies, facilitate this. If the software or technology changes later on, you can still access and utilize the data and workflows from an OpenBIM project. The project data continues to sustain, making OpenBIM a sustainable method for constructing buildings in today’s world and the future.
Conclusion
The above analysis brings out OpenBIM as the most suitable choice for collaborative BIM processes. Its openness, modularity, openness, and forward-looking nature make it the right candidate for building construction. Similarly, OpenBIM helps professionals to optimise their work processes, improve collaboration and accelerate the delivery of projects.
From architecture through to engineering and even building contractors, the use of open BIM will change the way we work. Understand and plan your next project through OpenBIM.
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