Myth #8: BIM ‘solves’ clash detection
Level 2 BIM requires contributors to upload files to the Common Data Environment at pre-determined points in a construction project. This data is used to drive the production of a federated dataset and model which makes it much easier to see clashes as the work of a range of teams comes together at strategic points. BIM modelling software and BIM integration tools allow designers to check for clashes in their own models and when models are combined. This should, in theory, make it much easier to spot and rectify clashes but is no substitute for common sense (For example, some geometric clashes will always be perfectly acceptable – pipes recessed in walls, for example) and general rigour.
The truth? Software can help flag clashes and data drops help resolve these early but BIM is no substitute for architectural rigour and common sense.
