Why can BIM change the way of designing public works?
BIM, an acronym for Building Information Modeling, is a collaborative working methodology that allows you to develop a three-dimensional digital model of a work. But not only that. This model includes information geometric, structural, physical and functional, representing a real digital copy of the work.
It can be used in all phases of the building process: from analysis and design to simulation, construction and management of the structure. Thanks to this approach, design decisions can be made in a more informed and precise manner, improving the overall efficiency and final quality of the product.
The mandatory nature of BIM and the new procurement code
The obligation to use BIM in public projects is established by the New Procurement Code, precisely byart. 43, paragraph 1. Starting from 2025, it will be essential to adopt BIM for all public contracts exceeding one million euros. This legislation concerns the design and construction of new works, but also interventions on existing buildings, with the exception of ordinary and extraordinary maintenance interventionsunless they are works already created with digital information management methods.
The process of introducing BIM into the public sector has been gradual: already since 2019 was made mandatory for projects exceeding 100 million euros, then following a decreasing scale up to the limit of one million euros expected from 2025. The main objective of this legislation is to encourage the digitalisation of the construction sector, promoting a greater efficiencytransparency and quality in the planning and management processes of public works.
BIM: benefits and difficulties to overcome
The mandatory adoption of BIM will bring several benefits to the construction sector, including one greater efficiency in the design and construction processes, one reduction of times and costs and a quality improvement total of the works. Furthermore, thanks to BIM, all the actors involved – designers, engineers, builders and managers – will be able to collaborate more efficientlyhaving access to a single source of digital information that is always up to date.
Another significant advantage of BIM concerns the sustainability: the use of the digital model allows you to optimize the use of resources and waste managementmaking the works more environmentally friendly.
However, there are also challenges that the sector will face.
A relevant question concerns i implementation costs. The adoption of BIM requires initial investments in specific hardware and software infrastructure, which could represent an obstacle for small and medium-sized companies in the sector. Furthermore, it must be guaranteedinteroperability between the different BIM software used, so that all the subjects involved can work in an integrated and coordinated manner.
Another aspect that should not be overlooked concerns the training of interested parties. There is a real need for adequately train staffboth in public bodies and private companies, for the use of BIM software and tools.
To best deal with the introduction of mandatory BIM, it is essential that companies and public administrations do not find themselves unprepared. To find out more we recommend the Online operational laboratory on the implementation of BIM in Public Administrationorganized by Maggioli training and the volumes presented below, published by Maggioli Editore.
