The world of BIM gives you much to explore – it is full of options to facilitate all the construction-related processes. We all could have noticed that BIM advantages have affected all AEC disciplines, and architecture might be the most beneficial one. You can explore more about The Advantages of BIM for architects. Yet it can be challenging to be aware of all of the options or learn how to utilize them.
BIM Design Software
Today, everyone knows BIM! And we all could have noticed that BIM advantages have affected all AEC disciplines, and architecture might be the most beneficial one. We, at Arch2O, tried to build up a list of resources that we found useful for BIM Design Software users. There is an overwhelming amount of information out there on BIM, however, we have taken the time to search through the best-known BIM blogs, publications, and tools. Here we go!
Read more:
1. Why Switch to BIM?
2. “Robotization” of BIM: How Robots Could Improve BIM Workflow
3. Case Study: BIM implementation in Shanghai Tower
Blogs
BIM 360 Blog
A blog by Autodesk that keeps you up to date with the latest Autodesk BIM 360 feature news, expert tips, and insider resources.
Shoegnome
For the beginner level, Jared Banks’ website aims to showcase innovation within the building industry and offer insights into BIM technology. The website features a variety of YouTube tutorials and articles.
AEC DevBlog
AEC Devblog is a good resource for managers and developers using Revit, Navisworks, and other Autodesk AEC (Architecture, Engineering, and Construction) and BIM. The blog is run by Autodesk’s Developer Technical Services (DevTech) team.
Beyond Design
Aims to showcase innovation within the building industry and offer insights into BIM technology since 2009. It’s run by Autodesk’s Navisworks team and covers a variety of tips and tricks, best practices, and insider knowledge to make the most out of BIM software and management.
BIM Fix Blog
Australia’s BIM community could get the most recent BIM updates through this blog. BIM Fix Blog may only update once a month, but it posts very useful BIM tips and tricks, every article is worth it!
Revit Add-ons
Tim Grimm covers Revit add-ons and plugins, many of which are free.
The Revit Kid
Good blog for tutorials and tips! offering a combination of video and text-based instruction for novices and seasoned veterans. It also has numerous pages of relevant content, and supplemental material such as a newsletter, and (paid) e-books and videos.
Bond-Bryan BIM Blog
Good all around! BIM site by Bond Bryan‘s Rob Jackson that offers lighthearted industry stories. They also cover BIM initiatives, tips, and tricks, and promote relevant conferences and industry awards.
HOK BIM Solutions
HOK is one of the leaders in BIM. David Light looks after BIM in London and is a regular on the BIM event circuit.
Revit
Everything Technology by David Light
The Case for BIM – Casey Rutland is an Architect and Associate Director at Arup Associates, specializing in BIM project design, delivery, and management.
Construction Code
Runs by Stephen Hamil, who offers BIM advice while also cataloging his own professional life.
Epic BIM
Multiple contributors whose philosophy is Keep It Simple Stupid!
Publications
AECbytes Magazine
AECbytes is offering a quarterly print magazine for $49 a year. They also keep an updated blog.
Automation in Construction
This international, research-oriented journal focuses on information technologies in construction. They particularly focus on computer-aided design. Readers can order a year’s worth of print articles for $99.
Cadalyst
Cadalyst’s quarterly print magazine provides software and hardware reviews, illuminates technology trends, and delivers expert advice to help CAD and BIM managers stay up-to-date. Each issue is $9.95 and $2.25 for shipping and handling.
AECMagazine
AECMagazine is a free online UK magazine that publishes bi-monthly. It keeps readers up-to-date on the latest technology solutions in architecture, engineering, and construction.
Constructech
This magazine zeroes in on the intersection of construction and technology (for example, the latest issue features an entire app catalog that’s sorted by how relevant it is to certain professions). It is published every other month.
AUGIWorld
AUGIWorld is Autodesk User Group International’s official magazine which is published once every two months. This in-depth publication provides specialized insight into topics like CAD management, AutoCAD add-ons, and management advice. AUGIWorld is reserved for AUGI subscribers only.
BIM Free Object Libraries
ARCAT
For CAD and BIM resources, ARCAT is a one-stop shop. Their free, no registration system has everything from concrete to pollution control system.
Autodesk Seek
A large library of mostly non-generic multi-disciplinary components by Autodesk. Users can quickly find product specifications for over 66,000 commercial and residential building products.
The National BIM Library
The National Bim Library offers a collection of free to download generic BIM components that are compatible with the major BIM products. NBS are better known for their specifications but have taken a strong interest in BIM recently. The library is still a little sparse but the basics are in place for a very useful resource.
Revit components Some useful free components especially strong on furniture and interiors.
Revit City
This site has been going a while and there are 1000’s of components to download. You need to register in order to be able to download components.
TurboSquid
This site offers components that you pay for but there are some free items. TurboSquid has a Revit certification system that ensures the components meet minimum standards. Compare the prices to the time you might spend modeling the items.
bimstore
The Bimestore offers a library of BIM content by manufacturers in Revit, Microstation, and ArchiCAD format. The content is free to download. You will need to register on the site first. They have an excellent guide to content creation.
CAD Notes
Very useful website maintained by Edwin Prakoso on everything related to AutoCAD, Microstation, and Revit.
Polantis
Polantis is a free-to-use BIM library that is fantastically organized and simple to use. While its library is a little smaller than others on this list, it’s easy to find exactly what you’re looking for.
SmartBim
SmartBim offers product models from over 40,000 family types in 10,000 Revit objects. Need a sprinkler? It’s an entire category. An ice maker? They got ‘em. A hospital bed? They’ve got four!