Across the real estate and construction industries, Revit and BIM have long been at the forefront of innovation. While their impact is undeniable, navigating the complexities of these technologies can be daunting.
Although often used interchangeably, Revit and BIM are not the same. In this article, we clarify their differences and introduce BIM dimensions, providing you with the insights needed to collaborate more effectively and maximise their potential.
Revit is software, BIM is the process
BIM (Building Information Modeling) is a comprehensive workflow process that supports the creation and management of data across all stages of a project—from initial design to construction and maintenance.
Revit, while built for BIM, is not the same as BIM. It is a powerful software application used to create objects which can consist of data seen from different views, including 3D models and 2D drawings. When a change is made in one view, that change is reflected across the entire model. Revit is widely used by architects, engineers, and designers to visualise and document projects, leveraging the interconnected data within a BIM model.
To put it simply: while Revit enables the creation of detailed building models, BIM is the overarching process that ensures teams can collaborate effectively, manage data, and optimise building performance throughout its lifecycle. The BIM process and associated data structures are defined in the ISO 19650 and 12006 standards.
BIM dimensions explained
BIM is all about managing and enriching data throughout a building’s lifecycle. BIM dimensions refer to the layers of information added to a model, each enhancing its value and depth.
While most are familiar with the 2D and 3D geometry, BIM introduces additional dimensions like time and cost, which are generally recognised across the AEC industry as 4D and 5D, respectively. It’s up to the project leaders to strategically decide on which BIM dimensions should be included in order to best benefit that particular project.
3D BIM (Geometry)
3D BIM forms the foundation, representing the physical geometry of a project. It includes all visible elements—walls, floors, beams, and materials. Unlike 2D drawings that only cover two dimensions (X and Y), 3D adds depth with the Z-axis. This alone unlocks powerful capabilities, such as supporting collaborative design and clash detection.
4D BIM (Time)
4D BIM incorporates the element of time, linking the 3D model with the project’s schedule. By visualising the construction sequence, teams can plan more effectively, reduce delays, and improve overall coordination.
5D BIM (Cost)
5D BIM integrates cost data, allowing for budgeting and resource allocation. This dimension is crucial for controlling costs, avoiding overruns, and ensuring financial efficiency throughout the project.
Beyond core BIM dimensions
Beyond the well-established 3D, 4D and 5D dimensions, BIM continues to evolve, offering additional layers of information that add value to a project. These standards can vary from region to region, however, some of the most impactful areas include:
Sustainability
Environmental data to enhance a building’s performance throughout its lifecycle. It covers energy efficiency, carbon footprint analysis, and other sustainability metrics, ensuring that projects meet environmental goals and operate sustainably.
Facility management
Focusing on the post-construction phase, this dimension incorporates maintenance schedules, warranty details, and operational data into the BIM model. By doing so, it ensures the building remains efficient and well-maintained long after its initial construction, benefiting both owners and operators.
Safety
Health and safety data can be embedded within the BIM model, enabling teams to foresee potential hazards and plan safer construction practices. This proactive integration helps meet safety regulations, minimises the risk of accidents and contributes to a safer work environment.
Industrialised construction
Adopting Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DfMA) principles within BIM facilitates off-site construction and prefabrication. This approach boosts efficiency, reduces waste, and improves precision, leading to faster timelines and higher quality outcomes.
Adopt both Revit and BIM for a more efficient, sustainable built world
Understanding the difference between Revit and BIM, as well as the various dimensions of BIM, is essential for anyone involved in the design, construction, or management of buildings. At Stak, we see Revit and BIM not just as tools and frameworks, but as a game-changing approach to creating more successful, sustainable and efficient buildings.
By leveraging BIM to its full potential, you can unlock new opportunities for collaboration, streamline project management, and ensure that your buildings perform optimally from day one and beyond.
Whether you’re just beginning to explore BIM or you’re looking to deepen your expertise, understanding these concepts is crucial for success. At Stak, we provide industry-leading reality capture services that feed directly into the BIM process, ensuring that your measurement data is accurate, comprehensive and ready to support your project’s entire lifecycle.
If you’re ready to take your projects to the next level, reach out to our team today. Let’s discuss how Stak can help you harness the full power of Revit and BIM for your next project.
