SEPTEMBER 2021CONSTRUCTIONBUSINESSREVIEW.COM 19CXOINSIGHTSWhile there is a prevailing sentiment that building façades, being confined to the outer footprint of the building, do not need to be actively coordinated with other trades, there is immense value in doing so. Building Information Modeling (BIM) is inherently a holistic process to ensure successful consolidation of several construction trades, and façade contractors should play a key role in this process. By actively engaging in the BIM process, façade contractors can save time and money and unearth issues in the design and coordination phases, rather than dealing with a clash between trades models on the project site. At Permasteelisa, an international façade design firm, we proactively engage in the BIM process at every stage of the project and benefit greatly. At the tender stage of the project, we frequently receive a 3D model from the architect. With the increasing complexity of projects, having a 3D representation of the architect's vision has enhanced our ability to understand the design intent and provide a more accurate bid. Being willing to learn and adopt the architect's tools gives us the ability to communicate quickly and efficiently with them. We use Catia, Rhino, and Revit in order to interface more directly with the architect's model and extract geometry and metadata. The anchors that transfer the load from the curtain wall back to the steel structures or concrete slab are very much intertwined with these structural elements, and it is essential to coordinate these connections. Not only is it easier to coordinate these interfaces in 3D, it is also more prudent to do so, as the 2D structural plans of the steel structure rarely show connectors like gusset plates or By Davide Mangini, Senior Vice President, General Manager, and Srinidhi Murali, Building Information Leader Sr, Permasteelisa North AmericaTHE CASE FOR BIM IN FAÇADE DESIGNDavide Mangini
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