In the competitive world of civil engineering, efficiency and accuracy are crucial to avoid cost overruns and delays. At Deltana Ingeniería, we’ve observed that many projects miss the opportunity to maximize profitability due to errors in the management of their BIM models. Today, we want to share the 5 BIM model errors that could cost you millions if not corrected in time, and how a strategic BIM management approach can make all the difference.
1. Lack of Comprehensive Model Audit and Validation
Error:
Often, BIM models are delivered without a thorough review, allowing design errors, specification inconsistencies, or parameterization issues to go unnoticed. These mistakes not only affect the quality of the model but also lead to rework and increased costs during construction.
Impact:
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Interferences between construction elements that cause rework.
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Increased costs due to modifications during execution.
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Delays in project scheduling.
Solution:
Implement a comprehensive model audit during the design phase. This involves reviewing all aspects of the model—architecture, structure, and MEP—to detect interferences and ensure every element complies with established standards. At Deltana Ingeniería, our BIM Health Check has proven to reduce RFIs (Request For Information: formal requests for additional information or clarifications during execution) on site by up to 30%.
2. Inconsistencies in Parameterization and Coordination
Error:
Poor parameterization and lack of coordination among various disciplines (architecture, structure, and installations) can result in misaligned models. These inconsistencies lead to discrepancies in quantities and specifications, affecting execution and material calculations.
Impact:
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Errors in quantity take-off (QTO) that cause overstock or material shortages.
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Time wasted on last-minute coordination adjustments.
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Potential conflicts among disciplines during execution.
Solution:
Optimize the executive coordination of the BIM model through joint reviews among disciplines. Correct parameterization and data integration ensure perfect synchronization on site, aligning every part of the project with construction requirements.
3. Inefficient Management of Changes During Execution
Error:
During construction, changes often occur on site—whether through RFIs (Request For Information: formal requests for additional information or clarifications) or change orders—that, if not managed properly, can leave the BIM model outdated and reduce its value as a reference tool.
Impact:
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Deviations between the digital model and the actual construction.
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Difficulty in making quick decisions based on updated information.
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Increased risks and the likelihood of costly errors.
Solution:
Establish a dynamic management system during execution that allows for real-time model updates. At Deltana Ingeniería, we coordinate the integration of changes into the BIM model immediately, ensuring the information accurately reflects the state of the project.
4. Underestimating the Potential of As-Built Models
Error:
As-Built models are often seen merely as a contractual requirement, ignoring their strategic value. They are not leveraged for operations, predictive maintenance, or the future transfer or exploitation of infrastructure—representing a missed opportunity.
Impact:
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Loss of critical information for maintenance and operations.
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Reduced ability to foresee and manage future expansions or modifications.
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Decreased asset value, especially in concession infrastructures or large-scale projects.
Solution:
Transform As-Built models into true strategic assets. This means creating accurate, updated models across various disciplines (architecture, structure, MEP, etc.) that serve as a basis for predictive maintenance, efficient operations, and eventual asset transfer. By doing so, the investment value is significantly increased and long-term operational management is facilitated.
5. Reliance on Mass BIM Modeling Services Without Strategic Management
Error:
Many projects opt for mass BIM modeling services that focus solely on producing models, without ensuring comprehensive management to guarantee the quality and optimization of the information. This approach often neglects the critical audit, coordination, and validation processes that transform a model into a strategic decision-making tool.
Impact:
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Inaccurate, generic results without deep analysis to detect and correct errors.
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Lack of personalization and adaptation to each project’s specific challenges.
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Higher probability of mistakes that can increase construction costs and affect return on investment.
Solution:
Choose a strategic partner in BIM management that complements mass modeling with rigorous auditing and a value optimization focus. At Deltana Engineering, we combine advanced technology with a deep understanding of on-site dynamics to turn every intervention into a competitive advantage. Our approach ensures that every model becomes a tool to support critical decisions and optimize execution, maximizing ROI.
Conclusion
BIM model errors are not just technical glitches—they represent lost opportunities for savings and efficiency. In an environment where every delay and cost overrun can amount to millions of euros, strategic BIM management becomes a decisive factor for the success of any civil engineering project.
At Deltana Engineering, we are committed to transforming these errors into competitive advantages. Our services in auditing, optimization, coordination, and generating strategic As-Built models provide tangible ROI and position our clients as market leaders.
If you’d like to learn how we can help you avoid these errors and transform your BIM model into a strategic success tool, please contact us today!