Archetech Issue 46 2020 | Page 59

Clearly, BIM-enabled tools are essential in keeping projects on track, reducing the as-built performance gap, initiated by the collaboration of architects and specifiers and monitored by facilities managers. Indeed, tools that can be utilised across the whole supply chain add considerable value to any project, as well as encouraging investment, innovation and growth throughout the industry. So it is clear that when the BIM process and related technologies are implemented correctly, they bring many benefits to a project. Use of tools such as Openings Studio enables collaboration, breaking down silos and forming a new approach to information development and distribution. This is an exciting time, and we must now take advantage of it to help create a step-change in productivity, transparency and quality within the building industry. For more information on ASSA ABLOY Project Specification Group’s BIM-enabled Openings Studio software for the entire building lifecycle, please call 0845 071 0882, email ukspecification@ assaabloy.com or visit https://www.assaabloy.com/en/com/ solutions/openings-studio/. CASE STUDIES Over the past five years, ASSA ABLOY Project Specification Group has worked on numerous projects in the UK and worldwide to utilise its Openings Studio BIM-enabled software to great effect. The time and cost savings seen have been overwhelming, including: Collaboration and the sharing of data is vital to the success of BIM. At its heart, BIM is a tool that reduces waste and risk of error, and facilitates the sharing of detailed information throughout the design, construction and operational phases of a project, which ultimately results in more efficient buildings. When it comes to doorsets and ironmongery in particular, using BIM-enabled tools such as ASSA ABLOY’s Openings Studio™ can truly unlock the potential of BIM. At the specification stage, tools such as these can drive efficiencies in creating door schedules because they are integrated and can be linked to fire certifications and energy performance documents. Having one easily accessible source allows architects and specifiers to update relevant information automatically without having to manually input each specification, saving time and money. A commercial and residential development based in London consisting of over 1,300 units and more than 7,000 doorsets, saving weeks of time and manpower. A hospital build in London consisting of over 1,600 door openings, saving the architects two weeks of work as Openings Studio was able to update the door schedule with ironmongery sets in just 10 minutes. A residential apartment building project in Manchester that saw the update of a 1,400 doorset schedule being undertaken within five minutes as opposed to the traditional workflow of five days. A primary school build and a secondary school build where the Project Specification Group team worked in close collaboration with the architects at every stage. This saved the architects from having to invest in expensive commercial licences, as ASSA ABLOY provides these at no cost to architect clients as part of the Openings Studio plugin and specification consulting service. Contractors can then view all this information to assess precise quantities, pricing, compliance, links to supplier websites and installation instructions. In addition, contractors are also able to track the status of installations across the project much more effectively. And finally, these tools ensure post-construction processes – such as environmental accreditations and handovers to facilities managers – are managed effectively. Not only this, but the ongoing performance and maintenance of the building may also be monitored via QR codes and a weblink to where all documents and certificates are located. This means that when a site gets audited, all information is easily accessible. BIM IS CHANGING THE BUILDING LANDSCAPE, BRINGING WITH IT IMPROVEMENTS IN DESIGN, SPECIFICATION, DELIVERY AND ASSET MANAGEMENT.