As the digitization of buildings continues to evolve, we see that more solutions are coming on board while new collaborations are happening between many systems. For instance, take the relationship forged between Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS).
Each of these elements plays distinct roles at different stages of building lifecycle management. Below are the basics of what you need to know about both of them and what they can do for your facility.
Building Information Modeling (BIM)
BIM is a 3D digital system, also called Digital Twin, that integrates all the smart and structured data about a construction project to present a digital representation of physical and functional characteristics of the finished building. The Building Information Modeling process begins with creating an intelligent 3D model that allows simulations, changes, document management, and coordination during the different project phases – planning, designing, building, operations, and maintenance.
Why is BIM Important?
The 3D model produced using this software contains every detail of the proposed building. Stakeholders can then use this model to explore various design options and see what the finished building will look like.
Later on after project completion, BIM data remains relevant as a basis for making decisions for the rest of the facility’s life-cycle till demolition.
Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS)
CMMS came into being as a means to simplify and streamline maintenance management. It is a powerful repository of all the maintenance information about a facility and the mechanical, electrical and other systems within it. Thus, its users need insight into every area of their maintenance operations and to be in the best position to make informed and proactive decisions about their facility and its upkeep.
Why is CMMS Important?
No matter the industry, more and more organizations are adopting a CMMS solution as it provides a cost-efficient tool for managing any kind of building and extending its useful life.
With the introduction of cloud-based CMMS, with its ease of deployment and implementation, it gives building managers the ease of proactive control over available resources which was not possible before.
CMMS and BIM: Making A Connection
CMMS and BIM have different functions, but their relationship is undeniably powerful. Since CMMS takes over every aspect of a building’s operations and maintenance after construction, its access to BIM would be important for quick access to good and relevant data.
For any buildings no matter how big or small , the data from BIM can carry over to the operations and maintenance of the building and its assets. This data serves as the “foundation” for maintenance and can be useful for planning renovation and other capital expenditure activities.
If you are planning a construction project, it’s advisable that you seriously consider how the final BIM model can facilitate the operation and maintenance of your building by feeding it into a CMMS.
A comprehensive CMMS solution would complement and support your facilities operations with features and tools such as:
- Mobile-Enabled Capability
- Preventive Maintenance Planning (PM)
- Project Management (PPM)
- Work Order Management (WO)
- Asset Management
- Spare Parts Inventory Management
- Easy Integration with Other Systems (e.g. HR/Payroll/Accounting)
- Cloud-based Support
- Condition-based and Predictive Maintenance Capability
- Report Generation
- Vendor Management
- Quality Control
- Enterprise Asset Management (EAM)
Building maintenance is not to be taken lightly. With the effects of inflation and other factors, you will likely spend more on maintenance over the remaining life of a building than the initial construction costs.
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Choosing the right solutions will save you significant budget by optimizing your asset maintenance. So don’t hesitate to reach us and request a free demo today and let’s see what we can do for you.
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