What are the principal advantages of using a single building information model of the existing conditions as the foundation for modeling proposed additions or renovations?
- Why not create a separate model for the new proposed design?
Using a single building information model of the existing conditions as the foundation allows the model to be more consistent and reliable with the existing design. Some advantages that I can think of are accurate information, central information, better relayed information, better coordination, better implementation and better efficiency. I wouldn’t use a separate model because it could make the new design inconsistent with what is currently there, could become redundant if building elements are repeated, could potentially confuse people on the project and is less efficient overall.
What sort of complexities are introduced when you construct a building complex in phases?
- What happens at the interfaces between the buildings as the phases advance?
- How can you plan and prepare for these complexities as your create your initial building model?
Constructing a building in phases introduces many complexities to the project. Some complexities that arose were the demolition of parts, proper management of building elements in each phase, determining how each part in each phase will affect one another, managing the utilities and extra aspects of the building and overall connecting the systems throughout the phases. The interfaces between the buildings as the phases advance change to what is modeled. This means that some parts may be demolished, while others will be added. You need to keep track of what is built and demolished. The best way to prepare for these complexities is by tracking and monitoring demolition and additions across each phase. This will allow you to keep track of what is added and will allow for the project to stay functional.
What are the principal advantages of using a single building information model of the existing conditions as the foundation for modeling several proposed design alternatives for a portion of the building?
- Why not create a separate model for each of the design alternatives?
In your project, which features of the proposed design did you choose to model as design alternatives?
- Why did you choose these building features? And what were the biggest challenges in modeling them as the design alternatives?