Building Information Modeling (BIM) is the process of generating the physical and functional characteristics of a building in a virtual environment for use during the building’s complete lifecycle.  This process begins with the architect’s concept of a project all the way through to the completion of the building and into the management of the facility.  Kinsley recognizes the significant value that BIM can bring to our clients.  BIM was started at Kinsley by implementing the 3D coordination process into a few major projects. The results on these projects increased the efficiency of the design and construction process. BIM has now been fully integrated into the Kinsley Standard of delivering projects to existing and future clients.

In-House 3D Modeling
Throughout a project, it may prove beneficial to create an element that was not created during the design process. A few examples of this could be:

• Showing temporary structures to aid in site logistics planning.
• Creating a 3D model from 2D shop drawings to aid in visualizing the coordination of contractors and sequence of construction activities.
• Showing temporary walls and partitions to help the client and field installer visualize what is required.

4D Scheduling
This method can provide can provide the owner and project team with a 3D visualization of the project schedule. Utilizing this technology allows the building to be built virtually before ever mobilizing equipment at site.

Spatial Coordination
The spatial coordination process coordinates all building systems and components prior to the completion of the design or mobilization at project site. This allows the project team to resolve major coordination issues inside a conference room, rather than at a project site. This reduces costly downtime, delays, and change orders.

Site Logistics Planning
During the preconstruction phase of the project, our project team will use the program to aid in the site layout and staging of the project. This will give the project team a 3D visual representation of the actual construction site.

5D Cost Estimating
This feature gives us the ability to extract quantities directly from the building information model, incorporate those quantities into assemblies, and import those assemblies directly into the estimate. After this link is created, design changes can be budgeted with just the click of a button.

Record Modeling
Creating accurate and intelligent as-built drawings will be highly beneficial to the owner and management team. Throughout the coordination and construction process, the trade contractors’ drawings will be redlined and changed within their model to accurately reflect field conditions.

Prefabrication
Prefabrication provides a better quality product, less potential for rework, ultimately resulting in reduced cost. The spatial coordination process mentioned above allows the MEP contractor to prefabricate more components than in a conventional project because many of the typical field issues are resolved beforehand.

BIM Execution Plan
Kinsley has developed its own BIM Execution Plan to set standards, expectations, and guidelines during each project from conception to completion. This is a living document that must be modified with each new project to fit that project team’s needs. It can also be implemented at any point in the design phase and incorporated into the bid documents. This will ensure that each contractor on the project will be aware of the goals in regards to BIM. A BIM execution plan will also ensure that all the project stakeholders receive the maximum benefit as efficiently as possible.

Safety and Orientation
This objective is most often a result of the modeling of a project and provides key safety personnel with early risk assessments and safety concerns.

Virtual Mockups
Virtual mockups can provide a high-level review of general spatial concerns and coordination of visual effects at a relatively low cost.

Constructability Review
An early review of the 3D model by the general superintendent and project manager brings to light several construction concerns and issues that can be resolved well before construction activity begins.