Critical Considerations When New to BIM Outsourcing

It can be a case of ‘too much of a good thing’ for firms in the construction industry. Businesses may find themselves with one or several interesting projects in hand, but completing them with the required quality and in the specified time with the existing resources, both personnel and software, can seem daunting and likely to cut into profit margins. This is especially relevant when the company can grow or expand its services, without having to concentrate on CAD and BIM (Building Information Modelling) services.

Outsourcing is the ideal solution. But outsourcing can be risky. Let’s look at why it could be time to outsource CAD drafting services, architectural design drafting, MEP design engineering,MEP drafting and BIM services and how to minimise the risks involved.

Firstly, who benefits most from BIM outsourcing?

The growth in popularity of BIM outsourcing primarily stems from an increasing demand for BIM skills where existing staffing resources are insufficient in number and expertise. In addition, architectural design and engineering companies focusing on special projects, diversifying their services are improving the scope of their businesses look to outsourcing BIM services to smooth the transition. So, the following professionals can benefit from BIM outsourcing:

Architectural design firms
Retail chains with physical outlets
Engineering firms
Construction companies
Design consultants
Property developers
General contractors

It’s time for any of the above industry professionals to consider outsourcing when a business owner finds that the firm does not have the following requisites:

Several firms may lack in-house BIM expertise, and some companies with BIM teams may find that they do not have enough projects for existing personnel.

Acquiring any or all of the above may prove to be expensive. Besides those mentioned, other existing conditions could include the following:

The first step to fixing a challenge is to acknowledge that there is a challenge to begin with. Once a firm concludes that they need to outsource BIM services, the next step is to choose the right partner. A checklist of essentials for an efficient and reliable BIM partner should include the following:

Some of the challenges that may be experienced while trying to find success with a BIM partner include communication barriers and errors in delivered services, leading to expensive delays. Communication channels, such as Skype, GoToMeeting, etc., and content-enabled models must be operated that help unite project phases.

Models can deliver technical information while backed by a range of data that fits into the geometric parameters. It is important to engage a BIM partner that can ensure that content-enabled models are updated dynamically and adhere to the specifications of the manufacturer, resulting in all the project stakeholders having accurate and current data. By delivering information to all the stakeholders, such as detailers, fabricators and subcontractors, the design workflow can be streamlined.

Through the use of BIM technology, status reports are communicated quickly, and in case changes need to be make suddenly, the right resources can be located to help prevent delays. With the use of remote and virtual technology gaining popularity in Western countries, remote business operations have gained wider acceptance, paving the way for increased instances of outsourcing.

Fraudulent BIM partners may show false evidence of milestones achieved and fantastic portfolios on websites. Some of the facts which can be checked before entering into a partnership with a potential BIM outsourcing company are:

Company experience
Domain age
Company credentials
URL
Company stability
Social media profiles

Additionally, it’s important to determine if the potential BIM outsourcing partner has executed work previously that matches the work currently required. Methodologies must be similar enough for seamless BIM integration. Also, try to verify the authenticity of the portfolio. Companies that specialise in CAD and point cloud conversion, Revit drafting services, Revit BIM, family creation, design development, construction documentation, etc. are typically updated with the latest industry-specific software.

Consultation with the company’s past clients can be a form of reference checking. By studying email communication and price comparisons, project execution, delivery times and quality can be determined.

It’s important to realise that low costs do not guarantee effective delivery. Skills, experience, quality and prompt delivery are of prime importance while comparing prices.

Opting for freelancers should be a no-no, since they tend to work on multiple projects without project managers or an organised workflow.

Accessibility and security are further key areas to consider while deciding on a BIM outsourcing partner. A reliable partner should be able to provide support 24/7 and should keep details secure and confidential. Details and project data must not be shared with others and must be secured in a safe format.

Reliable quality control processes need to be a hallmark of the organization. These processes can be queried and analysed to determine if they are comprehensive enough for the work required.

So, where should these remote workforces be sourced?

Countries, such as India, offer cost-effective labour, the required technical expertise, companies with years of experience and partners who are willing to invest in continuously upgrading the technical and software skills of their employees. In addition, many, if not most, of the technical personnel in the industry speak English, helping to communicate with Western firms.

Advantages of BIM Outsourcing

For small firms with limited finances, competing for larger projects becomes a challenge. This is when they can opt to outsource their BIM services, resulting in the following benefits:

With these benefits, smaller firms can compete with others in the market.

During the later construction stage, BIM outsourcing can help firms by: