New Small Practice BIM publication from NBS

The new BIM publication from NBS and edited by Robert Klaschka "BIM in Small Practices: Illustrated Case Studies" is now available.
- http://www.ribabookshops.com/item/bim-in-small-practices-illustrated-case-studies/80471/

Robert has over 15 years experience working in the UK and Europe in architecture and design and is a real thought leader in terms of Building Information Modelling. The relationship between Robert and NBS goes back to when he was a member of our very first Advisory Panel.

The publication contains a number of illustrated case studies. As part of this year's National BIM Report we did a feature on some of these practices. Within this piece previewing the publication I also gave my two pennies worth on the issue on BIM and the Small Practice...

Each year, the NBS National BIM Report presents the findings, across the UK construction industry,

Mr K

regarding BIM attitudes and adoption. However, looking a little deeper at the findings, we can see that there is a split in results between those from small practices (five employees or less) and the rest.

An example of this can be seen by looking at the questions on BIM awareness and BIM experience. In small practices, 35% were using BIM, compared to 61% usage in larger practices. With respect to BIM maturity, of those small practices which have adopted BIM, 35% have worked on a Level 2 project, compared to 55% in larger practices.

So, why is this the case? Speculating on the reasons behind these findings, it may be that it is more difficult for smaller practices to find the funds to invest in technology and training; it may be that there is less client demand or that the central UK Government mandate is less relevant; or it may be that collaboration is less important on projects of a less complex nature.

However, there is evidence to the contrary, indicating that adopting BIM should actually be easier for a smaller practice. Smaller organisations often have agility, whereas larger organisations often do not. The analogy ‘Is it easier for a speedboat to change direction or an ocean liner?’ is often used here. In addition, it is argued that BIM offers the opportunity for a smaller number of people working on a project to offer greater value.

Eight short opinion pieces are included here from those working in small or medium practices who have adopted a BIM process. They provide good insights into what is possible for those who embrace new technology and processes to put together more coordinated designs.

Click image for larger view - preview in this year's BIM Report

The publication also has contributions from John Enyon and Dave Philp and a section on the UK BIM community from Stefan Mordue and Rebecca de Cicco.

Mordue and Cicco

For more information see RIBA Bookshops:
- http://www.ribabookshops.com/item/bim-in-small-practices-illustrated-case-studies/80471/

...and finally, nice to see now Robert has a book out, he doesn't forget about those that helped him to the top (the BIM Dog)...