Greetings!
The momentum behind BIM is gaining pace, with DSG now receiving enquiries relating to BIM projects every week. There's no doubt that, although we are at the relatively early stages of the BIM 'revolution', the next year promises to change the shape of our industry. BIM is about collaborating and together we will have to define the way in which we collectively adopt this new way of working. What will the roles of architects, quantity surveyors and constructors be in this new environment?
Of course many of our core roles will remain the same and we will be using the skills and practices that have served our businesses for many years. But what new skills will we need to learn? Where will the changes have most impact? What will be the pros and cons of BIM (and yes, every new technology comes with some downsides even though the overall benefits far outweigh any negatives)?
These are some of the issues we'll be looking at in the coming weeks, starting with one that goes to the heart of the way we work. Namely, what are the rules of measurement that we will be using as we design, measure and build within the BIM system of the future?
If you want to find out more about BIM or discuss its implications for your business or a specific project, please visit our website or contact us by phone or email. Click here to visit our website.
Steven Gosling
DSG Quantity Surveyors
Why not call me to discuss your next project on
|
|
|
SMM7 or NRM?
As you will know there are two primary measurement methodologies is use in our industry today: the comprehensive and most prevalent SMM7 a nd the newer NRM 1 and NRM 2 intended, ultimately, to replace it. And it is that latter point that is of most relevance to us as we start to adopt BIM for new projects. The NRM approach is intended to supersede its older and perhaps more complex precursor, hence you would expect BIM models to be based around this standard.
And they are. Most if not all BIM systems are designed to accept inputs using the NRM standard. This is a welcome and progressive step that rightly p ositions BIM as a technology focused on the future. But how does this work in an environment where, certainly in the experience of DSG, SMM7 is by far the most widely applied methodology across the industry?
This is something we've already encountered in development projects as we test the strengths and limitations of BIM in our business. The issue we've noted is that it's all very well sticking dogmatically to NRM, but if clients or more likely partners are working to SMM7 then BIM will not fit effortlessly into the process. Hence we've started the process of creating an SMM7 template that will allow us to work in both formats. This dual stream approach will be essential for some time as both BIM and NRM become established - part of the process of helping the industry transition from one operational model to the new. It also highlighted another issue...
|
|
Garbage in garbage out
This old mantra from the IT industry holds well for BIM. We recently received a model from which we were to extract Bills of Quantities. Nothing unusual in that of course. However, when we imported the data into our BIM software it became apparent that 'traditional' levels of detail we are accustomed to working with would not deliver full value throughout the lifespan of the project. BIM isn't a magic bullet, it needs base data to work on and every aspect of the model needs to be as detailed as possible, from foundation methods down to door jambs.
Now it's entirely possible to produce workable models within BIM without this level of detail, but it does illustrate the changes in practice that we will require as the BIM model evolves. Perhaps counter-intuitively, this will involve additional work at various stages, particularly for architects. However, once the value of BIM is realised, this will translate into greater fee potential upfront with event greater payback for the client at the end through reduced construction costs, fewer delays and a smaller number of disputes.
We will cover this aspect in more detail in future issues but, as you can see, although BIM offers many benefits that can make our businesses more efficient and profitable, there are a number of changes we will need to make to ensure we maximise the benefits that it has to offer.
Please contact DSG by email or phone to arrange a meeting to discuss your company's requirements or for an estimate for a BIM trial.
Please visit our website at www.dsgquantitysurveyors.co.uk
|
|
About DSG
DSG Quantity Surveyors is a company with proven drive and ability.
Our success comes from an uncompromising attitude towards accuracy and reliability. During the last 12 months the company has focussed on developing our expertise around the BIM processes and solutions.
The following are some of the reasons we are a forward looking and growing business.
-
DSG attributes its success to a determination to learn from the mistakes of others. DSG listens to what companies have said about the pitfalls for QS consultancies and has developed a tick box methodology to help it avoid making the same mistakes.
-
The company brings the same mindset to everything it does whether cost plans, feasibility studies or contract selection. It takes time to carefully select the most appropriate contract for any given supplier.
-
DSG is meticulous with QA. It checks all the details.
-
When examining bids it carefully examines them to ensure all bids are compliant in terms of covering all the essential details
-
DSG attends monthly meetings and ensures clients are paid on schedule to reduce risk and agree final accounts at the end of the project.
-
As a result DSG has experienced 20-25% growth year on year in a challenging commercial environment
-
How to share DSGs success:
- We look for an appropriate opportunity to demonstrate that we keep our promises
- Clients always deal with principals and everyone has access to the MD, Steven Gosling. The company makes quick decisions, for example, when additional resources are required.
DSG Quantity Surveyors
First Floor
St Lukes House
Newbury
Berkshire
RG14 1JQ
01635 277670 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Get Involved
We are keen to get feedback from you all so please take part in our short BIM Survey by Clicking Here.
If you would like to invite a colleague to subscribe to our online news please click here
|
|
It would seem obvious... but!
 | |
This is NOT a modified photograph - it actually happened!
Clash detection and avoidance is a key element of the BIM process. Involve the DSG BIM Team early in the design phase to reduce delays and cost issues. |
|
|
Collaborating with other practices
 Click here to download a copy of the White Paper 'Extent of Architects Liability on a BIM Project' by Patrick Parry and Laura Coates. |
Join Our Mailing List
Once you join our mailing list we can update you with industry and company news. We will not spam you and you will be able to unsubscribe at any time.
|
Examples of projects to which we have contributed
|
|
