The Future of Building Information Modelling (BIM) in India
As India embarks on a massive infrastructure expansion to accommodate a rapidly growing population, the adoption of Building Information Modelling (BIM) is emerging as a crucial tool to improve efficiency and accelerate project delivery. BIM is a digital construction process that uses 3D data to support accurate planning, providing a framework that has already proven effective in many industrialized countries. While India is slowly adopting BIM, particularly in key business and construction projects, there is a need to expedite this shift to meet global standards and improve project outcomes.
BIM helps reduce cost overruns and improve planning accuracy. A study by Muchnoor (2021) found that most construction projects in India exceed their budgets by at least 20%, a problem that could be alleviated by integrating BIM into project delivery. However, despite its potential, BIM adoption in India remains sluggish, hindered by a lack of understanding, digital skills, and the high upfront costs involved in its implementation.
Many businesses in India are still unclear about what BIM is, why it is needed, and how to use it effectively. Companies, particularly medium and small-scale enterprises (MSMEs), often lack the digital infrastructure and resources to adopt BIM, limiting its use to larger, more forward-thinking organizations. This has led to India lagging behind the global curve in BIM adoption.
Looking ahead, the future of BIM in India appears promising. The early adopters of this technology have predominantly been architectural firms, with structural engineering, mechanical, and interior design consultants following suit, though at a slower pace. The potential of BIM, however, extends far beyond these sectors, and there is a growing need for a mental shift among key industry players.
Government intervention could play a pivotal role in accelerating BIM adoption. By mandating its use in large-scale projects, or introducing certifications for BIM specialists, authorities could significantly boost its adoption across the country. Standardizing national norms for BIM, along with developing India-specific product catalogues, would also help streamline its implementation and drive wider acceptance.
Though BIM implementation may initially increase project planning costs, its long-term benefits outweigh the upfront investment. BIM reduces construction expenses and provides valuable data throughout a building’s life cycle, from concept to demolition. The true value of BIM lies in its ability to offer operational insights, enhancing efficiency and sustainability for years after construction is completed.
In conclusion, BIM represents the future of construction in India. The focus should now shift towards harnessing this technology to solve ongoing challenges, both during and after construction. With the right support, India can catch up with the global BIM movement and unlock the full potential of its infrastructure development.
ADV. HARSHAL SAVLA (MRICS)
Managing Partner – M Realty
Chairman – Statistics & Research, CREDAI National
TYPE OF WORK
Building
COMPANIES COLLABRATION IN THE PROJECT
Moonap Designer & Engineers LLP
ACTORS
Virtual Building Studio
HOW WAS THE BIM EXEPERIENCE IN THE PROJECT
Figure: Observations received from their BIM experience in the project
(Source: Studio, V.B. (2019, July)
