Embracing change in architectural design with BIM and supplier synergy
Written by
02 July 2024
•
5 min read
Building Information Modelling (BIM) involves creating and managing digital representations of a product’s physical and functional specifications. This technology transforms how construction projects are designed, built, and operated, offering significant benefits to specifiers and the broader construction community.
A notable example of BIM’s reach is seen in companies with extensive manufacturing capabilities, such as Australian building material manufacturer and supplier Metroll’s recent uptake of BIM technology.
“The move to BIM, initiated towards the end of last year, was seen as a great opportunity to engage more closely with the architecture and design market, providing quick access to design tools,” says Paul Jensen, National Business Development Manager at Metroll.
"We have 29 manufacturing sites around Australia. We are one of Bluescope Steel's largest clients; manufacturing roofing, cladding, purlins and associated products as well as Colorbond fencing, and we deliver it by our owned fleet of trucks around Australia every day.”
Mr Jensen continues, “By leveraging BIM technology, Metroll can cost-effectively highlight its extensive range of products and supporting technical data, reaching a broad audience within the architecture and design market on ArchiPro and beyond.”
What is BIM?
At its core, BIM is a collaborative software tool that facilitates information sharing among various stakeholders involved in a construction project. It creates a centralised digital model (BIM file) that includes detailed information about a building product’s components, such as its measurements, spatial relationships, quantities and properties of its building elements. This model is continuously updated and shared throughout the project lifecycle, from conceptual design to construction and operation.
Benefits of BIM for specifiers
1. Enhanced design efficiency
One of BIM's primary advantages is its ability to streamline the design process. For example, the Revit system, a widely used BIM software, offers a user-friendly design platform.
"BIM is a quick and easy design platform that allows us to integrate our Metroll products, supported by all our technical details, into a file accessible to the community. Users can quickly place our products into their project designs in a timely manner with accurate information," explains Mr Jensen.
Specifiers can easily access and incorporate products into their designs, saving significant time and effort. “The ability to quickly call up a product, request a download, and place it directly into a design model enhances productivity and ensures that designs are both accurate and up-to-date,” says Mr Jensen.
"While our full product range continues to evolve, we currently have 12 key products, mostly roofing and cladding profiles, available in BIM, that are updated regularly. This allows users to access current project information," Mr Jensen adds.
Having timely and accurate data readily available helps specifiers maintain the quality and integrity of their designs.
2. Risk mitigation
Mr Jensen notes that BIM reduces this design and construction risk by providing detailed and accurate specification materials supported by robust technical data. “This level of detail helps specifiers make informed decisions, reduce errors, and ensure the final construction meets all required building standards and regulations.”
3. Broad market access
BIM also broadens access to product information beyond just architects and designers. Platforms like ArchiPro enable builders, homeowners, and other stakeholders to access detailed product data sheets and specifications.
"Using ArchiPro and BIM gives us access to the entire market (not just architects and designers). Builders and even homeowners can access our product data sheets and specifications easily. This broad access is crucial for reaching all our potential customers," says Mr Jensen.
Easy access to product information ensures that all potential customers, regardless of their role in the project, can make informed decisions based on the most up-to-date and accurate information available.
The future of Metroll
An effective supply chain is crucial for meeting project timelines and specifications. Mr Jensen remarks that Metroll’s BIM integration is further supporting specifiers' focus on improving supply chains.
"Our fleet of nationally owned trucks and cranes supports the supply chain when specifications are realised into finished goods. We can service the Australian market with our equipment as required," says Mr Jensen. “This logistical support enables a seamless service to the market.”
Metroll is focused on continuous improvement and innovation within the design and construction industry. "We're growing our architectural range, which will be integrated into the BIM program. This includes cladding and roof systems that appeal to architects, such as our popular MAC range, and we're improving our fencing design to offer more architecturally pleasing profiles," Mr Jensen adds.
Metroll’s strategic decision to have its key architectural products available ensures that specifiers can access cutting-edge products that meet evolving industry standards and aesthetic preferences.
BIM’s ability to enhance design efficiency, mitigate risks, integrate comprehensive product information and broaden market access makes it an invaluable tool for specifiers. Metroll’s integration with design technology will further cement its place as an essential manufacturer and supplier of modern construction and design products.
View Metroll’s architectural BIM range on ArchiPro today by selecting a Metroll product and expanding the 'Downloads' section.