Collaboration is key We create BIM level 2 compliant models to enhance the design, build, operations and maintenance of the buildings in our projects. With information available throughout the life-cycle of a building, the collaborative approach achieved through BIM, adds value to all the stakeholders involved in the project. Firstly, how do we at Optima get involved and work with BIM? The definition of a BIM project comes right at the outset. The client usually specifies BIM standards required, including whether the project should be BIM level 2 compliant. However, even at the tender stage, we often supply Revit families to support submission. BIM Level 2 – Appointment of a BIM Manager The client appoints a BIM Manager who then draws up the BIM Execution Plan which sets out the levels of detail, development, and formats required for the information submitted. Collaboration is key at the design stage. We share our BIM information alongside that of other stakeholders and suppliers who are specified on the project. This means other contractors see how our glass partitions and doors fit into the building. In addition, our BIM designers see the information relating to other products and services. This enables a more efficient process and ensures our design fits with others. Often BIM designers produce several iterations of a project. This iterative process enables a smoother on-site experience for all those involved. Invaluable information from the outset There are distinct advantages to using BIM which become apparent later in the process. The operations and maintenance information, supplied at the outset, is invaluable to everyone involved. Our design team have specific skills and experience relating to BIM level 2 modelling of our glass partitions and doors. Consequently, the team has grown and developed their experience, following our first BIM projects in 2014. In addition, they can now deliver BIM level 3 projects if required. Subsequently, a Record Model is issued and a fully Federated Model is produced following weekly submissions to a Common Data Environment (CDE), clash reports and several collaboration meetings with the BIM Manager. At this point, our teams have designed, collaborated and refined the project in order to produce a working model valuable throughout the whole of the life-cycle of the building. See our BIM hub for more of the BIM projects we’ve been involved in. Download BIM models for all our products from the National BIM Library or from our Member’s Area. Get in touch if you have a project.