In all spheres of business operations optimization is vital. You can never progress if you’re always operating at the same level. The situation is identical in the world of building information modeling. Its workflow has enough space to be elevated to another level. All you need to know is how to do it. In this article, we are going to explore a few interesting tips and tricks that could aid you in this domain. From simple tricks that help you navigate the software to genuine real-life tips we have it all covered. If you’re ready, let’s start.
Organize Everything Alphabetically
When you’re working for some time in BIM modeling for a while you’ll quickly notice how the system works. It tends to be organized on its own. The first thing you’ll see is that it aims to have everything set in alphabetical order. This is part of its automation, and you can use it to your advantage. When you start sorting systems, you should add an alphabetical prefix to each of them. Create your organization within the organization. Yes, this would require you to work a little bit more in advance. But, later on, you will have the advantage. It will save you so much time you wouldn’t believe it.
Add Color To It
Colors are a great way to differentiate things. We know this from our natural surroundings. The same can be applied to sophisticated software such as this one. Within the system, there are ways to tell things apart, but none of them are color-oriented. The good part is that you can customize the program to your liking. The best way to turn things your way is to have them colored. In this area, and especially if you work in a team, you must create a standard upon which the colors are used. Once you have the standard set that everyone can follow, your workflow will improve drastically.
Invest Into Hardware
Not all changes are required to be in terms of software. Some of them require physical change. If you want your workflow streamlined it will not be enough to make changes only within the software. Instead, you will need a good machine to run your software. BIM software is in many cases a very demanding software. To get the best out of it, you’ll need a capable machine. The focus should be on its RAM capabilities and the power of the main processor.
Invest Into The Right Software
Hardware will not do you much good, nor any advice from the above if you’ve partnered yourself with the wrong software company. In the world of building information modeling, there are plenty of providers that operate in this domain. When you start relying on BIM software you want it to be the best one out of the bunch. Making the right selection in this domain is what will make it easier to make use of all the other tips and tricks we listed in this article. So, start with work from within, but also, focus on what’s from the outside.
Master It
Nothing comes easy in this world. Mastering BIM software is no easy task. You need to work for it. It is sophisticated software. But, that doesn’t make it complicated. Yet, it requires dedication and attention. You need hours and hours for work and maybe even some professional tutoring. Either way, once you’re fully introduced to it you will be able to make your workflow run smoother. If you’re serious about working with any software in this domain be it Revit or AutoCAD you need to get more familiar with it.
Learn The Shortcuts
Just like any software these days, BIM software works on numerous shortcuts. In the same way, you learned those that you’re using every day tied to Word or Excel, some shortcuts come with the BIM software of your choosing. Learning these shortcuts is a pathway to much faster operation, and it is one of the steps you need to take to get your way around this software. For a faster workflow of all of your BIM operations, you will need to get familiar with most of its shortcuts.
Automation
Once you get accustomed to operating your BIM software you will see that there are many repetitive actions. This is yet another field where you can take advantage of this program and make it work faster in your favor. For a more smooth workflow, you need to automate all of the repetitive actions you have. With time, you’ll notice that there are plenty of these. To make them work to your advantage you’ll need a bit of outside help, but it can be done. The best way to ensure that all the repetitive actions are automated is to use some form of a script or a plugin.
Use Templates
The best part about BIM templates is that they’re everywhere. The software itself offers plenty to start, and later on, you can add some of your choosing. Once you finish your third or fourth project you will notice the repetitiveness of it all. For some areas of work, that are less important and highly repetitive templates will save the day. Once you start recognizing the elements of a project that are repetitive and that can easily be replaced by a template you will soon find out that many BIM software’s have more gears than one.
Bottom Line
Optimizing a BIM modeling workflow is not an easy task. The good news is that it can be done. To streamline your operations, and make it faster, and simpler, you only need a few tricks. Some of the tips and tricks we have listed here in this article should be of help. Whether it’s the use of templates, top-notch hardware, and software, automation, or any other tips and tricks, you’re on the right path. Each day is a new chance for you to get better at using a designated BIM software and with this article, you have an amazing starting point.