BIM
but they track their embodied carbon on the project ’ s Bill of Materials ( BOM ) after the materials have been purchased and installed . While it ’ s great they can understand how well they did , it doesn ’ t allow them to make better sustainability decisions on the current project .
The proactive approach to sustainability initiatives is certainly more difficult , but it ’ s achievable with clear goals , great partners , and an ability to think bigger . Tools are available to enable you to do embodied carbon tracking directly on BIMs during the middle of design , which will allow for more informed decision-making before the design is finalized and it ’ s too costly to change later in the project .
To summarize , the ‘ I ’ in BIM has evolved substantially , as with most industries over the past few decades . Its original intention was to make more informed decisions impacting cost , schedule , and quality , which is very true today . In her book ‘ Creating a Culture of Predictable Outcomes ,’ Barbara White Bryson says : “ Timing is everything when it comes to decisions in the design and construction industries .” ( Bryson 2021 ). Having access to better information when it ’ s needed during the full lifecycle has put a renewed emphasis on its importance . ■
For a list of the sources used in this article , please contact the editor .
Nick Scalone www . microdesk . com
Nick Scalone is Microdesk ’ s Director of Program Management . Microdesk , a leading provider of BIM , Virtual Design & Construction ( VDC ) and Enterprise Asset Management ( EAM ) services , is dedicated to assisting design , construction , and operations teams . It has a more than 30-year history of implementing innovative technologies and processes , sustainable design , and building methodologies . Its enhanced focus on digital transformation is another example of the company ’ s legacy in bringing new tools to the AEC industry to promote efficiency , sustainability , and the ability to address macroeconomic trends including urbanization .
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