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Michael McGuire

Building Information Modelling (BIM) if full of professional / technical jargon that confuses even people with many years' experience in construction.  Learning the processes is simple when you have an understanding of what the language actually means.

As an educator of a highly successful digital construction course, I hear confusion often from people who try to learn about digital construction and BIM.  I teach many students who have graduated from courses of all levels who don't have a real understanding of what they are doing or even why they need to do it. 

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Building Information Modelling (BIM) if full of professional / technical jargon that confuses even people with many years' experience in construction.  Learning the processes is simple when you have an understanding of what the language actually means.

As an educator of a highly successful digital construction course, I hear confusion often from people who try to learn about digital construction and BIM.  I teach many students who have graduated from courses of all levels who don't have a real understanding of what they are doing or even why they need to do it. 

This course is designed specifically to aid the digital construction student, so we can focus directly on the knowledge this industry requires right now, and in the near future.  I have over 20 years experience teaching professionals who are already working in digital construction, and the knowledge taught in this series are the some of the most requested every year.  If you  plan to work in the digital construction industry as an architectural technologist, architect, BIM coordinator etc. then this course is for you.

The lessons are designed for people with no previous knowledge of BIM, however even if you have a knowledge, and just wish to have a deeper understanding, then you will fit right in.  The video lessons are theory based, however where possible I use practical demonstrations to communicate the knowledge.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Understanding bim acronyms
  • Understanding how different disciplines collaborate on a bim project
  • Understanding the common data environment and how it is used
  • Understanding the aidp
  • Understanding the bim execution plan
  • Understanding the history of bim standards in the uk
  • Understanding naming in accordance with iso19650
  • Understanding pim and aim
  • Understanding bim dimensions , 4d, 5d, etc
  • Understanding classification
  • Understanding cobie
  • Understanding ifc
  • Understanding the information delivery cycle
  • Show more
  • Show less

Syllabus

Introduction

How did we get to where we are today in digital construction? Where did BIM come from?  Is it new? Let's look back through the history of some construction challenges and changes that have taken place, and you will see that collaborative, shared practice is definitely not a new idea.

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Not understanding what something is will hold back your learning and development.  In this session, I try to explain what the various 'jargon' acronyms mean and also try to give you some plain language examples of what they are.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Designed for digital construction students, this course directly addresses the knowledge and skills needed in the industry now and in the near future, making it highly relevant
Explores BIM dimensions like 4D and 5D, which are increasingly important for project management and cost estimation in digital construction
Covers the history of BIM standards in the UK, which provides context for current practices and helps learners understand the evolution of BIM methodologies
Explores naming conventions in accordance with ISO19650, which is essential for ensuring compliance and interoperability in international BIM projects
Teaches COBie and IFC, which are crucial for data exchange and interoperability between different software platforms used in BIM projects
Focuses on understanding BIM acronyms and jargon, which can be a barrier to entry for newcomers in the field of digital construction

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Reviews summary

Bim concepts explained clearly

According to learners, this course provides a solid foundation in Building Information Modelling (BIM), specifically focusing on demystifying the complex jargon and processes. Students frequently highlight the instructor's ability to explain difficult concepts in a clear and understandable way. Many found the content highly relevant to their careers in digital construction roles like BIM coordination or architectural technology. While praised for its theoretical depth and clarity on key BIM standards and documents like ISO19650, CDE, and BEP, some learners noted it is primarily theory-based. Overall, it's seen as an excellent starting point for beginners or those needing to solidify their understanding of BIM principles.
Primarily theoretical, less hands-on practical.
"While the theory is excellent, I would have liked to see more practical examples or software demonstrations."
"This course is great for understanding *why* BIM is done, but you'll need other resources for the *how* (using software)."
"Be aware this is heavily focused on the concepts and management aspects, not how to use specific BIM software tools."
"Good for understanding the principles behind BIM execution plans and CDEs, but less on the technical implementation side."
Detailed explanation of ISO19650 standards.
"The section on ISO19650 and naming conventions was particularly useful and well-explained."
"Understanding ISO19650 was a key objective for me, and this course delivered clear insights into the standard."
"Gained a much better understanding of the ISO19650 series and its practical application in projects."
"The explanation of the Information Delivery Cycle according to ISO19650 was very thorough."
Content is highly applicable to digital construction careers.
"The topics covered are exactly what I encounter daily as a BIM coordinator. Very relevant to industry practice."
"Taking this course significantly boosted my confidence in job interviews related to BIM roles. The knowledge is practical."
"It's clear the instructor understands the industry needs. This course delivers information crucial for digital construction professionals."
"Helped me understand the workflow and documentation I need to handle in a real BIM project environment."
Provides a solid understanding of BIM fundamentals.
"This course provides an excellent foundation for anyone looking to get into BIM coordination or just understand the basics."
"As someone new to BIM, this course gave me a comprehensive overview of the necessary processes and documents."
"It lays out the core concepts of BIM theory effectively, making it a great starting point for further learning."
"I feel much more confident discussing BIM topics after taking this course. It built a strong base of knowledge."
Complex BIM jargon is broken down simply.
"I always found BIM concepts confusing, but this course made it easy to grasp the jargon and underlying principles."
"The instructor has a real knack for explaining complex topics in a simple, straightforward manner. Highly recommend!"
"Finally, I understand what all those acronyms mean! The explanations here are incredibly clear and concise."
"The way the different terms like CDE, BEP, etc., were explained using simple examples was incredibly helpful for my understanding."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in BIM Made Easy with these activities:
Review Construction Fundamentals
Reviewing construction fundamentals will provide a solid base for understanding BIM concepts and their application in real-world projects.
Browse courses on Building Construction
Show steps
  • Review basic construction processes.
  • Study common construction materials and their properties.
  • Familiarize yourself with construction terminology.
Review 'The BIM Manager's Handbook'
Reading 'The BIM Manager's Handbook' will provide a deeper understanding of BIM management principles and best practices.
Show steps
  • Read the book, taking notes on key concepts.
  • Reflect on how the concepts apply to the course material.
  • Identify areas where you need further clarification.
Create a Glossary of BIM Terms
Creating a glossary of BIM terms will reinforce your understanding of the terminology used in the course.
Show steps
  • Compile a list of key BIM terms from the course.
  • Define each term in your own words.
  • Provide examples of how each term is used.
  • Share your glossary with other students for feedback.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Follow Online BIM Software Tutorials
Following online tutorials will help you gain practical experience with BIM software and tools.
Show steps
  • Choose a BIM software package (e.g., Revit, ArchiCAD).
  • Find online tutorials that cover basic modeling techniques.
  • Follow the tutorials step-by-step, creating a simple model.
  • Experiment with different features and tools.
Develop a BIM Execution Plan Outline
Developing a BIM Execution Plan outline will allow you to apply the concepts learned in the course to a practical scenario.
Show steps
  • Choose a hypothetical construction project.
  • Identify the key stakeholders involved.
  • Define the BIM goals and objectives for the project.
  • Outline the BIM processes and workflows.
  • Specify the information deliverables.
Review 'BIM Handbook: A Guide to Building Information Modeling for Owners, Designers, Engineers, Contractors, and Facility Managers'
Reading the 'BIM Handbook' will provide a comprehensive understanding of BIM principles and practices.
Show steps
  • Read the book, focusing on areas relevant to your interests.
  • Compare the book's content with the course material.
  • Identify areas where the book provides additional insights.
Prepare a Presentation on a BIM Case Study
Preparing a presentation on a BIM case study will allow you to analyze real-world BIM projects and present your findings.
Show steps
  • Research and select a relevant BIM case study.
  • Analyze the project's BIM goals, processes, and outcomes.
  • Prepare a presentation summarizing your analysis.
  • Present your findings to other students or colleagues.

Career center

Learners who complete BIM Made Easy will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
BIM Coordinator
A BIM Coordinator is crucial for managing and facilitating the Building Information Modeling process on construction projects. This role involves ensuring that all project stakeholders understand and adhere to BIM standards and procedures. This course, with its focus on demystifying BIM jargon and processes, helps a BIM Coordinator establish a solid foundation in the fundamentals of BIM. The course, in particular, will help you understand how different disciplines collaborate, and gain knowledge of the common data environments, both of which are essential to a BIM coordinator's daily work.
Digital Construction Specialist
A Digital Construction Specialist utilizes technology to improve project efficiency and coordination within construction projects. This role involves implementing digital processes such as BIM, 3D modeling, and data management. This course's focus on the digital construction industry and its aim to clarify jargon directly aids a Digital Construction Specialist by ensuring they have a clear understanding of BIM. The course’s coverage of the BIM execution plan and classification systems is highly relevant. A digital construction professional will find this course valuable because it addresses areas of confusion that are relevant to their work.
Architectural Technologist
An Architectural Technologist applies the science of building design and construction to create technical drawings and plans. This role requires a deep understanding of building regulations, design principles, and construction methods. This course can help an architectural technologist by focusing on the collaborative aspects of BIM and the understanding of common terminologies. Its emphasis on the digital construction industry, as mentioned in the course description, directly aligns with the technology employed by an architectural technologist. Specifically, this course addresses the industry practices that an architectural technologist will need to know.
BIM Modeler
A BIM Modeler is responsible for creating and maintaining the Building Information Models for a construction project. This involves using software to put together detailed digital models of buildings, including their structural, mechanical, and electrical components. This course is beneficial to a BIM Modeler by providing an understanding of fundamental BIM principles. The course is aligned with what BIM modelers are interested in, since it deals with terminology, project management, and collaboration on a BIM model. A BIM modeler will benefit from this course.
Virtual Design and Construction Specialist
A Virtual Design and Construction Specialist utilizes digital technologies and BIM to simulate construction processes, optimize the design, and improve project outcomes. This role focuses on digital construction workflows and collaboration using virtual methods. This course is directly applicable to this role because it is focused on the digital construction industry. The course content that demystifies BIM jargon and clarifies the roles of different disciplines is extremely relevant. This course will provide a virtual design and construction professional with a deeper understanding of the BIM environment in which they work.
Project Manager
A Project Manager is responsible for planning, executing, and closing a project, overseeing the entire process, from initial design to final delivery. They ensure the project stays on track, within budget, and meets the client's needs. This course can help a project manager understand the specific language of BIM, which is used frequently in the construction industry. It is essential for a project manager to understand the principles of BIM collaboration across disciplines, which are introduced in this course. This course provides useful information that allows a project manager to have a better overview of the building process.
Construction Manager
A Construction Manager oversees the physical construction of a building or infrastructure project, ensuring it is built according to the design specifications, on time, and within budget. This role involves managing teams, coordinating subcontractors, and ensuring safety on site. This course may be useful for a Construction Manager by providing an understanding of BIM, which is becoming increasingly essential on construction sites. The course's focus on the BIM execution plan and collaboration strategies directly impacts the responsibilities of a construction manager. This course focuses on BIM terminology that may be useful to a construction manager who is looking to use digital construction.
Design Manager
A Design Manager oversees the design process of a construction project, ensuring that project designs meet the client's needs while adhering to building regulations and codes. The design manager will ensure that the designs are buildable while working with different stakeholders, including architects, structural engineers, and specialist consultants. This course may help a design manager better understand the language of BIM and digital construction. The course's focus on the BIM execution plan and collaboration strategies will equip you to better work with BIM data and stakeholders. The course’s coverage of the BIM execution plan and classification systems is highly relevant.
Structural Engineer
A Structural Engineer focuses on the structural integrity of buildings and other structures, ensuring they are safe and can withstand the forces they are subjected to. They work closely with architects and use computer-aided design software. This course may be useful for a structural engineer by providing a deeper understanding of BIM practices, especially how different disciplines collaborate on a BIM project. The course's specific content on clash detection, information delivery cycles, and naming conventions are likely to be directly applicable to the work of a structural engineer. This course gives a better comprehension of digital practices that are often used by structural engineers.
Civil Engineer
A Civil Engineer designs and oversees infrastructure projects, such as roads, bridges, and buildings. Civil engineers are responsible for the planning and design, and often work closely with architects and other specialists. This course may be useful for a civil engineer by providing a deeper understanding of the collaborative aspects of BIM, particularly in relation to multi-disciplinary projects, which are often worked upon by civil engineers. The course’s coverage of federation strategies and clash detection could especially be of assistance to a civil engineer in collaborative projects. This course can help a civil engineer be more effective in using BIM digital construction tools.
Mechanical Engineer
A Mechanical Engineer designs and develops mechanical systems in buildings, such as HVAC, plumbing, and fire protection. This role requires a deep understanding of mechanical principles, design, and building systems. This course may help a mechanical engineer by focusing on the technical language of BIM. The course's focus on the BIM execution plan, common data environment, and collaborative aspects may be highly relevant to a mechanical engineer’s daily work. A mechanical engineer who wants to work on BIM projects may find that this course gives a helpful introductory overview.
Electrical Engineer
An Electrical Engineer designs and oversees the electrical systems for buildings and other infrastructure projects. They are responsible for lighting, power distribution and other electrical infrastructure. This course may be useful for an electrical engineer by providing a deeper understanding of common BIM language. The course gives specific emphasis to how different disciplines collaborate on BIM projects. The course also discusses the common data environment, which allows for better collaboration. By taking this course, an electrical engineer can be better prepared for BIM projects.
Construction Estimator
A Construction Estimator analyzes project plans and specifications to determine the costs associated with labor, materials, and equipment necessary for construction. This role requires a deep knowledge of building methods, materials, and market prices. This course may be useful for a construction estimator by providing a deeper understanding of BIM and the way in which digital construction is managed. While this course does not directly deal with estimation, it may be useful to learn more about the construction environment. The course material on BIM dimensions, specifically 4D and 5D, is beneficial for an estimator.
Facilities Manager
A Facilities Manager oversees the operations and maintenance of buildings and facilities. This role is concerned with the efficiency and sustainability of a built environment, as well as the safety of building occupants. This course may be relevant for a facilities manager due to its focus on the digital construction industry. While the job of a facilities manager is not directly involved in the building aspect of construction, it can be beneficial to have a deeper understanding of BIM fundamentals. The course material on the common data environment and information management may be of particular interest to a facilities manager.
Quantity Surveyor
A Quantity Surveyor manages and tracks costs associated with construction projects. This includes preparing cost estimates, managing budgets, and assessing the financial implications of design changes. This course may be useful for a Quantity Surveyor because it provides a more comprehensive view of the digital construction environment and the BIM methodology. While quantity surveyors are not usually involved in digital construction, the BIM principles discussed in this course could provide a better understanding of how digital construction is managed. The BIM dimensions discussed in the course can be useful for a quantity surveyor.

Reading list

We've selected one books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in BIM Made Easy.
This handbook provides comprehensive guidance for BIM managers and professionals involved in BIM implementation. It covers various aspects of BIM management, including planning, execution, and collaboration. It valuable resource for understanding the roles and responsibilities within a BIM project and how to effectively manage the BIM process. adds depth to the course by providing practical insights and best practices for BIM management.

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