Vico Guest Blogger #1: Clifton Cole from Penta Building Group in Las Vegas

With so many great thinkers and innovative companies all around us, Vico decided to turn the microphone over to them!  In this first installment of the series, please allow us to introduce you to Clifton Cole, Project Engineer at Penta Building Group in Las Vegas!  He has a special topic to discuss: BIM for Owners...

 

 

Q:  Why do you feel owners need to learn more about BIM?

A: Owners are a very important part of the BIM process. We're seeing more owners request BIM on RFP's and we want to make sure the owners are getting the full benefit of the collaborative BIM process. This really starts with the architect, engineer and contractor working together to exchange information and promote better projects.

Q: What's the greatest misconception in today's market about BIM for owners?

A:  I think the biggest misconception is that BIM is just a tool. BIM is a collaborative process that involves communication and the exchange of information from design to construction to operation and maintenance.  This helps to reduce rework and eliminate cost issues in the field or once the building is turned over.

Q: And why is Penta leading the educational charge for owners?

A: Here at Penta we feel it's very important to educate the owner on what to expect when using BIM on their projects and the capabilities that the architect, engineers and contractors have with BIM.

Q: Can you describe some of the benefits you've seen on the projects.

A: The biggest benefit we've seen is the ability to do clash detection from a contractors standpoint.  Where we're able to implement all the sub trades and do clash detection and coordination in a controlled environment. We are also seeing benefits with scheduling and sequencing where we are able to show the owners, in 3D, the way we propose to build their projects. It's really a big benefit to be able to visualize the project to understand how it's coming together. It allows the architect to get their design intent across and allows the owner and contractor to understand the architects and engineer's design intent.

Q: Any closing thoughts?

A: I just want to tell everybody we're holding a BIM presentation here in Las Vegas on January 12th. If you are interested and want more information feel free to contact me at ccole@pentabldggroup.com

Event Information:
BIM For Owners Seminar
January 12th 2010, 8:30AM
Doubletree Club Hotel
7250 Pollack Drive, Las Vegas Airport
Las Vegas, NV  

Here are some BIM deliverables that all Owners should request on their projects:

During the Conceptual Phase
Cost Variance
Fast Model Representation
Documentation for all phases
High-quality project renderings

Constructability
Constructability report
Complete review of 2D drawings and schedules
Seismic bracing design (pre-approved for OSHPD)

Coordination
3D modeling capability for all major systems
2D, 3D, and 4D clash detection
Coordinated hanger placement

Change Management
Electronic comparison of drawing packages
Automatic detection of changes
Virtual light table view of changes
Clouding and RFI assignment, tracking, reporting

Quantities
Model-based quantity takeoff
CSI and Uniformat Masterformat support
Specialized BIM objects for construction quantities

Estimating
Knowledge Base of cost and time elements
Support for condition methoding
Cost variaces
Bid packages

Scheduling
Automated creation of the baseline schedule
Line of balance schedule for crews
Monte Carlo risk analysis
Production control and forecasting
Schedule analysis and optimization
4D simulation to illustrate the schedule
Design-pull schedule

Layouting
Total Station export for seismic bracing
Auotmated site grid layout
Build to design and design to build support
Integration with the Trimble Total Station/LM80

Sub-Contractors
Construction 3D model with sub-contractor input
Continuous workflow support
Advance coordination management service
Look-ahead movie by date and trade

Model Viewer
Quantity and cost support
Earned value analysis and cash flow
Walk-throughs, sequencing, other AVIs

BIM is such a valuable process for your next project.  Please be sure to post your questions and comments for Clifton, or email him directly at ccole@pentabldggroup.com.