More and more architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) projects are migrating to building information modeling (BIM)–based implementations. Government regulations and BIM initiatives account for a lot of that migration, but there are many firms and individuals that have migrated on their own because they saw the benefits of accurate, timely project data shared across trades and with all project stakeholders. Whether you're a designer, architect, engineer, construction manager or building owner, you can benefit from data that is shared throughout the phases of a project. Whether it's the initial planning and design phase, construction phase, as-builds or the ongoing operations and maintenance that continue on through the lifecycle of the project, there is value in all of that data. Having access to and the ability to share and collaborate utilizing that data is key to a successful project for all involved.
The Nemetschek Group, developer of BIM software solutions such as Allplan, ArchiCAD, Solibri and Vectorworks, has recently taken steps to increase its users ability to do just that—share and collaborate utilizing BIM data. In December 2016, the Nemetschek Group acquired the company dRofus—a Norwegian software provider of BIM-based program, equipment and data management for the building industry. It brings to the table a BIM collaboration tool that can complement all Nemetschek solutions.
“dRofus is a perfect strategic fit for the Nemetschek Group,” said Patrik Heider, Nemetschek spokesman. “With the commitment to open BIM, we share the same business paradigm. I am convinced that the well-known presence of the Nemetschek Group can support dRofus in expanding internationally.”
The dRofus website points out that the software provides all stakeholders with comprehensive workflow support and access to building information throughout the building lifecycle, including the handover to facility managers—all on a single and central cloud-based platform. The program is also a SQL server database, which should help functionality and speed even on large and complex projects. Some key features of dRofus include the following:
- Data-centric approach to BIM: Plan, create and manage building data input from every stakeholder, capturing relevant building/project information.
- Design integration: Advanced plug-ins to Revit and ArchiCAD help integrate program data with design for validation of building requirements.
- Data standardization: Capture client requirements and manage facility standards across multiple projects.Owner requirements are directly connected to design models through open standards.
- Tracking changes: All changes applied to dRofus are logged. These logs will show who changed what and when.
- Reports and exports: dRofus has over 70 built-in PDF reports and Excel exports. Clients can also utilize XF Designer, a third-party report template authoring tool, to create specialized reports of their own.
- Security and accessibility: Data is securely stored on a central server, allowing users to connect and read data regardless of their physical location. User access rights are controlled in order to ensure data security.
There are also several modules that can be added to dRofus: Room Overview, Room Data Sheets, Items, Finishes, Systems, TIDA, Graphical Function Planner, Function Program, Procurement, Delivery, Punch Lists and 3D (IFC and BIM).
BIM data that is not shared with or used to collaborate with other trades and stakeholders involved on a project amounts to really nothing more than a 3D model. Although a 3D model is definitely an important part of the process,it’s sharing that model along with other data compiled along the way in a project that highlights the value of BIM. A successful BIM project can (just to name a few):
- Increase speed and accuracy of designs,
- Allow for earlier and more in-depth collaboration across teams, trades and stakeholders,
- Aid in project visualization,
- Coordinate construction sequencing,
- Identify potential collisions,
- Aid in estimating and
- Help manage the lifecycle of the building (or whatever the end result of your project was).
Since the acquisition of Vectorworks back in 2000, Nemetschek has continued to carefully craft acquisitions that have added complementing brands to its lineup, including Allplan, Bluebeam, Graphisoft, Scia, Solibri and more. Nemetschek does not absorb companies like many typical large cooperation acquisitions. Its business model has been to identify successful, innovative and leading software companies in the AEC market and then operate and grow them as independent companies.
This most recent acquisition will go a long way in setting the stage for success on the BIM playing field.