Building Information Modeling (BIM) is perhaps one of the most significant changes our industry has seen. The technology involves creating virtual 3-D models of buildings, rather than 2-D electronic drawings. The models contain accurate representations of actual members, complete with material and design information. Structural models can be merged with Architectural and MEP models to create a master model for the building.

Realizing that BIM is the future (and present) of our industry, Datum began investing in Revit software (a BIM product from the makers of AutoCAD) and training in 2006.  Since then, we have produced more than a dozen projects using Revit.  These projects range from a barn at Red Oak Ranch to giant $100 million research facilities like the UT Southwestern Medical Center Phase 5 Tower in Dallas, and the UT Experimental Science Building in Austin.

The application of BIM technology continues to evolve, as more architectural firms are adopting its use.  The technology holds the promise of efficiency and productivity gains, as well as the opportunity to reduce errors and conflicts through clash detection.

BIM offers the ability to better envision how the structure and architecture work together, and the ability to merge models from various disciplines to detect conflicts and coordination problems (such as ducts going through beams or steel braces in doors). We now have the ability to cut sections through a building anywhere at any time, allowing us to better see how the architect envisions the pieces coming together.

On the engineering side, it is possible for a single structural model to be created to serve as the basis for both analysis and construction documents.   Contractors are using the models in the creation of submittals, for auto-generating quantity take-offs, and for performing scheduling optimization. 

Datum is committed to the use of BIM technology in our firm and our industry.  We look forward to working with you using this exciting new tool.