Did You Miss the Model-Based Estimating Fundamentals Webinar?
Posted by Holly Allison on Wed, Jul 14, 2010 @ 04:50 PM
We know that most GCs don’t have a problem with scheduling and estimating. These are two disciplines that can always be trusted on bid day. These departments run smoothly because of their experience and problem-solving skills.
But what changes need to be made to estimating processes when a BIM model is introduced to the project? BIM-based estimating is the next wave of adoption – and 5D BIM is certainly one powerful way to differentiate your firm to Owners.
After working on 350 BIM projects around the world, we can offer some advice and point out some roadblocks that we’ve experienced:
• You’re going to want to access historic project data so your model has relevant material and labor costing per project type and geography;
• You’re going to want to organize and evaluate Subs based on their productivity rates on past projects of similar scope;
• You’re going to want to see the BIM model color-coded according to your estimate so that you know that no scope or trade has been accidentally omitted;
• You’re going to want to maintain, then compare and update versions of your estimate as soon as you receive new details – this will help you identify scope creep and/or out-of-budget choices.
• You will benefit from a visual connection between model, quantity, estimate and price changes – this will help you explain the evolution of the cost plan to your Owner and others connected to the project.
Prepared for The Building Exchange Network and the American Society of Professional Estimators, we want to make sure your estimating team has access to this webinar.
What: An Introduction to Model-Based Estimating
When: Archived for your convenience
Where: A free online webinar
How: Watch it today!
This webinar is for your estimating team if
1.) You’re interested in a tool that derives precise, construction-caliber quantities, based on the geometry from Tekla, Revit, and ArchiCAD models.
2.) If you are interested in learning how to use model based estimating systems very early in the design process, even when there is no model, only sketches and a narrative.
3.) You’re interested in quickly accessing the multiple quantity types in the model and customizing their specific calculations to account for consumption rates, waste factors, and conditions.
4.) You’re interested in working smarter with subcontractors, negotiating mutually-beneficial contracts when the scope is clear.
5.) You’re interested in learning how you can convert and utilize your Timberline, MC2, or RIB estimating data with a model-based estimate.
Caption: In one view, the Estimator can compare the 3D model to both the cost plan and the budget. By highlighting a line item in the cost plan, the Estimator can see the element highlighted in the 3D model and where it resides in the project budget.
This course offers a thorough review of 5D BIM, including quantity takeoff, cost planning, estimating, and budgeting, all from a BIM model. We also demonstrate how to import current data from Timberline and other estimating software and tie it to a BIM model. Whether you team works with Tekla, ArchiCAD, or Revit models, this webinar demonstrates how to derive construction-caliber quantities from the model geometry and how to edit formulas for model-based and non-model-based quantities.
Watch the webinar at your desk or just use a projector and organize a “lunch and learn” for your team in the conference room. If your questions aren’t addressed in the Q&A session, pick up the phone and give us a call. We would love to hear your thoughts and get a discussion going.
Contrary to industry musings, BIM does not mean that estimators are out of a job or that with one click on a 5D BIM model you can produce an estimate. Learn what changes in the estimating workflow when a BIM model is introduced to the project; learn how the cost plan evolves as the model level of detail is refined; learn how to handle model-based and non-model based elements.
Here is a 10-minute clip from the webinar...