BIM (Building Information Modeling) is increasingly becoming mandatory for MEP contractors to place project bids to General Contractors (GC). However, in most cases, BIM is negatively impacting the project goals due to involvement of high cost, providing no significant returns on investment (ROI) for MEP contractors. It is for this reason that companies often prefer to outsource projects to lower BIM costs, meet GC requirements and avoid major impact on business operations. As a matter of fact, there is a significant rise in BIM outsourcing by MEP contractors of all sizes. However, the outsourcing trend is more prevalent in small and mid-sized companies.

BIM outsourcing usually involves partnering with an outside company to develop 3D MEP models and coordination of these models with other disciplines. Outsourcing companies deliver services like BIM coordination, 2D drawings development as well as development of as-built models to help MEP contractors to deliver the same to GC or building owner.

However, if you look at BIM as a mandatory cost of bidding for projects, you are paying unnecessary and expect no gains out of adopting the BIM process. Research shows that the returns on investment (ROI) are only significant for companies that are more engaged with BIM.

To increase the profitability while working on projects that need BIM, all you need to do is increase the level of engagement. It is better to fully invest in the BIM based technologies rather than purchasing a BIM project, if you really want to compete better in the market. Upon full adoption of BIM processes, you can turn your investments to reward with better returns. Since the prime purpose of BIM is to become profitable by reducing risk and completing projects faster. Engaging fully with BIM can help your firm to work on profitable projects for your future BIM clients.

It is however important to know that investment for BIM engagement at any level will be high. Small investment in 3D clash detection only cannot guarantee good returns. However, investing gradually in BIM processes like pre-fabrication, procurement and ducting will eventually provide better returns. It is thus all about moving from low engagement to high. This requires a proper investment in choosing the right people and BIM based technologies.

Select the right BIM solution provider who can help you out with your first BIM project. Let experts in the field help your teams to engage further with this promising technology. All this will eventually help your company to establish BIM processes on your projects, and will help you to understand how, when and what part of the project requires to be outsourced.

As a leading BIM solutions provider for the AEC fraternity, Hi-Tech has remained a valuable partner to support MEP contractors in engaging and implementing BIM processes, and turned their investments in technology profitable. Interested to work with us? Send us your project details at info@hitechcaddservices.com or visit us at www.hitechcaddservices.com for more details.