Report comment

Charles

I agree that BIM has its theoretical and practical applications for high-end projects where the entire team is fully computer literate and where responsibilities and protocols have been fully rationalised.

I don't want to appear a Luddite though. In the 1990's I was managing partner of a practice with 15 staff and 3 partners, and it took some persuading, and eventually unilateral action by me to put the first CAD system online in 1990. Efficiency ramped up and after a couple of years all staff (with the exception of one or two on the Campaign for Real Drafting) were using CAD and we saw huge benefits.

Now, as a sole practitioner, all my operations (except initial sketch stage) are CAD based using Arkey, Google Sketchup Pro and a range of other management, presentation and productivity software - and I couldn't operate the range and volume of projects without CAD.

I find that even now there are contractors, subcontractors and other consultants who are not even fully CAD literate, let alone BIM aware - and the thought of trying to practically introduce BIM into an arena of the construction industry in its present state of reverse investment in the North of England makes me shudder.

At the right time, when I'm convinced it will practically improve the design and delivery process I'll invest in BIM, use it and promote it.

Until then, and for some time to come I'll continue with 2-3D CAD and remain healthily sceptical about BIM whilst enjoying the debate.