Building Information Modeling (BIM) as an Investment
Conclusion: Overall Return of Investment of BIM
Multiple studies have confirmed that BIM has emerged as the norm among a variety of types and sizes of firms and organizations. The return on investing in BIM is being realized in multiple ways as business benefits to firms, quality and efficiency benefits to building owners or managers, professional benefits to the career growth of individual designers, and overall benefits to better projects. The decision to use BIM and fully implement it does not need to be dramatic as seen in the smooth transitions that have already occurred in other firms. Therefore, all firms and organizations involved in building design and construction can easily incorporate BIM fully into their operations. Those that postpone adoption of BIM will likely find that they are left behind and in a less competitive position than those already using it.
End Notes
1Firm Survey Report: The Business of Architecture 2016. American Institute of Architects, www.aia.org/resources/6151-aia-firm-survey-report.
2The Business Value of BIM for Infrastructure 2017 SmartMarket Report. Dodge Data & Analytics Research & Analytics, analyticsstore.construction.com/smartmarket-reports/BIMInfraSMR2017.html.
Peter J. Arsenault, FAIA, NCARB, LEED AP, practices architecture, consults on green buildings, presents continuing education seminars, and writes prolifically on topics related to architecture, design, and practice. www.linkedin.com/in/pjaarch
![]() |
Vectorworks, Inc. is the developer of Vectorworks software, a line of industry-specific CAD and BIM solutions that help more than half a million design visionaries transform the world. www.vectorworks.net |