You may have heard that Building Information Modeling can benefit a lot the AEC industry. "Improved Collaboration”, “Increased Efficiency”, “Cost Savings, “Better Visualization”, and the list could go on and on. But have you heard about the dark side of BIM? If you haven’t, I’m sorry to break it to you, but there is. It’s commonly known as BIM Wash.
This term is attributed to all the confusion that can be around BIM, and one of the awful things about it is that it can be done unintentionally sometimes. It happens when trying to sell BIM services without fully understanding it (from both parts, the seller and the buyer), when a firm wants to close a sell by overpromising. Then, throughout the project, BIM falls far short of client’s expectations. People end up with 3d models or any data that can’t be used to build. Many companies do this because BIM is often required in contracts, especially for government projects, but they don’t want to invest the time or money to actually adopt it properly.
Not sure if a company is actually using BIM or just claiming to? Here are some red flags to watch out for:
If a company does not specify their model use, then is probably that they might be BIM washing. It is essential to define what is the purpose of a 3D model; clash detection, energy analysis, schematic design, etc. Keeping in mind that the more uses for a model, the more time will be invested.
A serious BIM process requires a BIM Execution Plan (BEP) that outlines how BIM will be used in a project. If a company claims to use BIM but can’t provide a BEP, they might be BIM washing. Regardless that at some point it may feel like a BEP is too much work, it is recommended that at least the company shows a previous BIM Execution Plan.
If you see a company mostly relying on 2D drawings instead of a true 3D digital model, they are likely not using BIM properly. BIM isn’t just about making a digital drawing—it’s about integrating data into a smart model.
We have been in situations where a consultant needed to change a wall due to coordination, so they proceeded to change their tag using text instead of modifying the wall, so the wall assembly didn’t match the overall wall thickness. Again, we understand that the model reliability will depend on its use, and this must be specified on a BIM Execution Plan.
One of BIM’s biggest advantages is clash detection, which helps identify conflicts in design before construction begins. If a company isn’t using tools like Navisworks or other model coordination software, they’re missing out on a key BIM feature.
True BIM workflows involve collaboration between architects, engineers, and contractors using tools like Autodesk Construction Cloud, Trimble Connect, or Newforma. If a company only works with static files in their own environment without any kind of collaboration, they’re likely BIM washing. Keep in mind that sharing files is not necessarily collaboration.
If you're hiring a company or working on a project that claims to use BIM, here's how to verify their authenticity:
Ask for a detailed BIM Execution Plan (BEP) before the project starts
Request examples of previous BIM projects with real data-driven outcomes
Check if they use cloud-based collaboration tools for real-time updates
BIM is a powerful tool that can revolutionize construction, but only when used properly. BIM washing is a growing issue where companies falsely claim BIM capabilities to win projects without actually implementing its benefits. By knowing the red flags and asking the right questions, you can avoid falling for BIM washing and ensure your projects truly benefit from BIM’s potential.
We encourage you to read our Isolated BIM Implementation article, this also provides perspective in what to expect when implementing this process.
Curious to dive deeper into BIM practices? Check out our related blog posts for more insights and strategies to elevate your projects!
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