The BCFA held its first BIM (Building Information Modelling) workshop exclusively for BCFA members on 8th June at the Interface Showroom in Clerkenwell. There was a fantastic turnout of attendees and knowledgeable presentations held by the guest speakers at the event including Joe Cilia of FIS, Craig Sewell Marketing and Manufacturing Consultant and Kim Findlay from BCFA Member, Edge Design.
Joe Cilia- Technical Manager at Finishing and Interiors Sector (FIS)
Joe covered the topic of digitisation of the construction sector, as well as giving the audience a briefing on what is BIM, what is required and where to get more information from. Methods of processes were displayed and structural data giving the audience a visual understanding of the model. Joe covered the way that BIM has developed and is becoming extremely important within the sector, showing the past and present differences. The presentation concluded with websites and other useful tools to gain a better understanding on BIM.
Craig Sewell- Marketing and Manufacturing Consultant
Craig covered the topic of why BIM is needed, as well as the investment and change within the topic. The development of BIM was shown, and the impact it is having from a real-time example. The shift to digital was highlighted and the investment, enabling companies to get a better understanding of budgeting for BIM. Craig spoke about how BIM can help companies, and some of the key benefits. The presentation finished off with some tips as to ‘what are the next steps’.
Kim Findlay- National A&D Development Manager at Edge Design
Kim was the final speaker at the workshop, and discussed the experience of getting BIM accepted and created within a business. Revit (an architectural and interior design software) was also covered. Edge Design (members of the BCFA) who are already familiar with BIM were used as a key example in the presentation, displaying ways in which the system works for them. Kim went on to speak about the big companies who are using BIM and how the government now requires fully collaborative 3D BIM as a minimum with all projects (April 1st 2016). “Not BIM? You’re not in!” was a phrase which concluded the presentation.
The seminar was then followed by a light lunch and a chance for networking for both the attendees and speakers. The BCFA saw terrific opportunity and success within the workshop and are looking to create more in the near future. If you are interested in attending further BIM workshops and would like to see any specific topics covered, please contact Jeremy@thebcfa.com.
Thank you to all our speakers and everyone who attended.