BUILDING INFORMATION MODELLING (BIM)

BIM is imperative to how we deliver projects at all stages; from concept and massing to completion. We have over 8 years of experience using our BIM Strategy and work in a BIM environment for all of our projects in both ‘collaborative’ and ‘BIM lonely’ environments, depending upon our client’s requirements.
Our approach to working in a BIM Level 2 environment, creating design models and/or a federated model in a common data environment, is simple and robust. We are committed to the transparent and integrated design process that working in a collaborative BIM environment enables. Tools such as the new Digital Plan of Works (DPoW) set out in PAS1192-2 help us to ensure that we work to the best standards available. The key to our approach is that we endeavour to strengthen any team we are part of by teamwork and a willingness to share knowledge and skills.

As a practice, all of our collaborative work in computer aided design is in line with BS1192:2007. From this robust foundation we implement BIM to the standards set by PAS1192-2:2013. Our BIM standards which set the principles for our Level 2 documentation and model creation, are adapted from AEC UK 2015 (which complies with PAS1192-2). This gives us a solid footing on which to deliver designs driven by efficient collaboration. 

We embrace opportunities to work in common data environments (CDEs) and to use the latest technology to create federated models. We have open and constructive policies towards sharing model information with the design teams.
We work to the BIM Execution Plan (BEP) created for each project to ensure we are working in line and in close collaboration with our fellow design team members. From this BEP, we develop a BIM Implementation Plan (BIP) in line with the project strategy to enable our in-house BIM processes to run as smoothly as possible with the rest of the design team.

In the very early stages of a project, we issue (unless otherwise instructed) a ‘Project Setup Checklist’.

It enables an open information trail and ensures all team members are aware of how the model is setup. During the project, as part of the lead consultant role, we hold regular BIM coordination and clash detection meetings with the design team using Navisworks. 
At WGI, we use Autodesk BIM products, including Revit, Navisworks, Building Design Suite Ultimate and Premium. Whilst developing the model, the 3D aspects enable us to use emerging interactive and immersive visuals, walkthroughs and upcoming VR technology. These enable those who are unfamiliar with reading architectural drawings to understand schemes in new ways during engagement and consultation project phases. This is a particularly popular tool with end users. At WGI we are always looking to new IT developments to aid the communication of our designs and visions.
Our implementation of BIM is rooted in our considered approach to new technologies and methods of working. We work on challenging schemes with fully integrated consultants models, and are excited by the challenges of new and developing technologies and how they impact the way we work.