Building Information Modeling (BIM) offers you the opportunity to see in 3D the physical and functional characteristics of a facility you are building or renovating, helping you to plan, design, construct and manage each job. Now, technology makes it possible for you to carry your models onto the construction site – and to share your data with anyone at any time, making collaboration quick and efficient.
Consider these innovative options for your small business:
Autodesk
Autodesk offers a suite of products specific to your building needs, including the Building Design Suite and Factory Design Suite. You can purchase online versions and gain immediate access to the technology. Prices vary; for example, the Building Design Suite is $340 per month for the basic package.
Tekla’s BIMsight
This free application that works fluently on the iPad and iPhone has the capability to open very large models and offers a single platform for live collaboration. BIMsight is equipped with a user interface for Windows 7 and Windows 8 tablet computers and a note app for iOS or Android devices.
Cadfaster
A plugin for your design platform software, Cadfaster makes it possible to share 3D CAD models and BIM designs with anyone – even nonCAD collaborators – in real-time. All your documents and images from a building project can be shrunken to a regular file size and emailed or downloaded from a link. Prices start at $19 per user, per month.
Graphisoft BIMx
Featuring the BIMx Hyper-model, a technology for integrated 2D and 3D building project navigation, this app is available for iOS ($75) and Android devices ($50). Easily share designs with clients and contractors, and print an unlimited number of projects for the price of printing one complete documentation set.
SmartReality
Gain an interactive view of construction projects using 2D plans and 3D models, all from a mobile device. The app for iOS and Android is free to download and demo. You then pay for each project you submit for use within the app.
With today’s top BIM modeling technology, you can easily access, manage and share all of your building models with key stakeholders from anywhere. Improve productivity and collaboration with these innovative tools that won’t bust your budget.