Visualize success with information modeling.

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is playing an ever more important role in our industry, as projects become more complex and the need for greater interaction and cooperation throughout all stages of the design and construction process becomes even more critical. BIM is an innovative technology that boosts collaboration and seamlessly bridges communication between all participants in the process.

BIM is a computerized modeling system that involves using special programs to "build" a project in a computer before any construction takes place. Before BIM, when problems surfaced during construction they had to be dealt with on the spot, which often impacted the timeline and budget of a project. Now with this technology, our project team can resolve the issues identified before construction begins, which helps avoid additional expenses and schedule delays.

Here’s how it works: Modelers take electronic files of the various building systems provided by the designer and key subcontractors and integrate them into a computerized, 3-D model. Next, the software runs a collision report, outlining where one element (such as structural members or ductwork) intersects with another. These “collision sites” would have previously proved costly to fix in the field. Thanks to BIM, the team can move and rework the systems as needed, improving the constructability and efficiency of a project. And, as the design progresses, models are revised and the collision reports are updated and analyzed. This modeling also allows our clients to experience a clear and accurate visualization and take a virtual tour of their project before construction even begins.

At Sundt, we take further advantage of BIM by including time as the fourth dimension in our modeling process. This way we can analyze the schedule for accuracy and help explain the sequence of work to different trades. 4-D modeling also shows if work is out of sequence or if multiple trades are scheduled to work in the same area at the same time, which could create a low productivity environment. It’s just another way Sundt works to save time and money for our clients.

Because we believe so strongly in the benefits of BIM, we incorporate it into all of our larger and more complex projects. As a Silver LEED Certified facility, our headquarters is a very high-tech building featuring innovations like Textura, Building Technology Platform and a secure data center hub for the Information Technology Department…all of which demanded high levels of system integration. BIM was critical to our success in this complicated but rewarding project. And it helped launch our Simulated Construction Department (SIMCON), which today is one of the largest of its kind within the general contractor industry.

No matter the scope or scale, BIM helps Sundt deliver a product that is better quality, more efficient and more sustainable – often under budget and ahead of schedule.