3 Ways to Supercharge Your Revit Models to Win with BIM in Construction

We know BIM in construction is a hot topic. And we are familiar with 3D modeling tools like Revit which enable us to create beautiful designs and actually put BIM into practice. But how do we leverage our understanding of BIM and the vast amount of data generated from Revit, to take it a step further?

The answer...an integrated preconstruction approach. 

The greatest challenge in preconstruction is accurately hitting multiple moving targets. Design iteration is a necessary part of the design development process, it can't be eliminated but it can be controlled and accelerated.

Today's technology enables architects, contractors, subcontractors, vendors, and owners to collaborate much more effectively and rapidly than ever before. Using available BIM programs, quantification and estimating tools, as well as document management solutions and change control systems, enables all the stakeholders to rapidly assess changes and determine their impact on cost, time, and constructability. 

These technologies allow for a more integrated preconstruction approach. They enable the contractor to better communicate to the owner the impacts of changes in a way that speeds up the decision making process and allows the team to arrive at the most optimal cost, schedule, and construction sequence.

_{Today's technology enables architects, contractors, subcontractors, vendors, and owners to collaborate much more effectively}

Now how do we put this into practice? Here are 3 ways Assemble can help take your Revit models to the next level to win during preconstruction:

1. Share the (BIM) Wealth

Let’s face it, BIM tools like Revit are not always the easiest to use. Like any powerful authoring tool, it takes time to learn how to navigate and drive the software. But when only a few people on the project team have the skillset to use Revit, it means that not everyone has access to the rich BIM data that comes with it. 

Assemble helps break down the barriers to enter the world of BIM in construction by simplifying quantity take off and improved model visualizations. With access via the cloud, anyone on the project team can view 3D models, get the relevant quantities needed, and even leverage conditioned models for downstream use like work in place tracking and project sequencing. 

When BIM data is siloed across functions and authoring tools like Revit its power to drive action is hindered. P. Agnes, Inc., a family-owned Philadelphia Metro-area-based firm, used Assemble to use model data throughout the entire construction lifecycle to save time and reducing project risk.

“Assemble has transformed the way we use building information models for the better. Autodesk Revit and Navisworks are great, but the steep learning curve and hardware requirements limit model availability to a select few. With Assemble, I truly believe we have a solution that gives the entire company access to the power of BIM.”

- Jeff Pinhero at Turner Construction

_{Assemble helps break down the barriers to enter the world of BIM in construction by simplifying quantity take off and improved model visualizations}

2. Implement “Power Precon” 

Using BIM programs like Revit to help with planning and design is a critical component of demonstrating design intent and visualizing constructability. But today it takes more than pretty 3D models to win work. 

Putting “Power Precon” into practice is about taking a holistic approach. It is not just about increasing estimating efficiency and creating compelling 3D models, it's about building a roadmap for construction that maximizes cost and schedule savings while maintaining transparency with the owner and the rest of the project team. 

The first step in putting “Power Precon” into action, is finding the right technology solutions that support the various components of delivery. Tools like Assemble can help take your Revit models to the next level by enabling construction professionals to condition, query and connect BIM data to key workflows.

_{Tools like Assemble can take your Revit models to the next level by enabling users to condition, query and connect BIM data to key workflows}

3. Enhance Value Engineering

Although VE is becoming a common practice on many AEC projects, it is not always executed well. This is often due to short-sighted decisions and a lack of comprehensive understanding. 

Assemble’s cloud-based model data management gives all project stakeholders instant access the model information, ensuring they can visualize and understand the elements, quantities and costs being discussed -- from anywhere in the world. Assemble’s approach to Value Engineering is focussed on creating fluid team collaboration and transparency. Using 3D models from Revit, Assemble allows for more accurate, up-to-date project data that supports an optimized VE process.