BIM-Based 4D Modeling and Scheduling - Construction Project Scheduling and Control - page 419

In this sense, the incorporation of BIM is essential to minimize waste that may occur
in construction processes while increasing the value to the customer. The major
contributions of BIM to the implementation and execution of the lean construction
technique are described as follows:
• BIM reduces waste of overproduction, defective products and rework : BIM pro-
vides collaboration between the various project participants in the early stages
of the project and ensures their full involvement, especially in the design phase.
It allows parties to communicate and evaluate probable design problems,
detect clashes, and integrate architectural, structural, mechanical, and electrical
designs in a single information file. The 3D model enables users to physically
represent the building component while capturing and storing the “compo-
nent information.” The intelligence of these models is helpful in estimations,
material procurement and allocation, subcontractor management, and design
analysis.
• BIM reduces waste of waiting and idle process times : A 4Dmodel created in a BIM
environment provides automated project scheduling and project visualization
throughout the life cycle of the project. The simulation of the project enables
users to manage and allocate project resources, plan site logistics, and manage
subcontractor schedules. The interdependencies among activity packages and
sequences of these activities are easily identified so that the working times of the
subcontractors are more successfully allocated. Also, the automated generation
of project reports allows consistent and reliable information to be provided to
the participants, which reduces the risk of loss of information and minimizes the
waste of waiting for information. The virtual simulation of the projects improves
the stability of the work flow and minimizes the idle times in the construction
processes.
As a final remark, if BIM is incorporated into an integrated project delivery system,
leaner constructions can be executed. First, the integration of the BIM with a supply
chain management application and an ERP system, the delivery of materials, and site
logistics and subprocesses among different project phases are more collaboratively
and effectively managed. Second, the incorporation of various project participants are
ensured so that coordination and communication problems among cross-functional
parties are avoided, and waste of waiting for information is eliminated. The fulfillment
of a continuous flow of work is another characteristic of a BIM-enabled integrated
project delivery system that allows the alignment of all project activities in an effec-
tive work flow, minimizing lead times among diverse work packages and eliminating
unnecessary steps. The room for improvement always exists; however, the adoptabil-
ity of novel and innovative systems, tools, and techniques, such as the incorporating
of BIM-enabled integrated systems into a company's existing operations, is a sign of
a willingness to continuously strive for improvement. The adoption of novel systems
as well as the improvement of the processes by using these systems are triggers for
continuous improvement, which is one of the major targets of lean construction.