Building Information Modelling (BIM): A Simple Introduction

Building Information Modelling (BIM): A Simple Introduction for Engineering Offices and Contractors

BIM comes up often at conferences and in adverts, so some people assume it is just new 3D drawing software. In reality it is a different way of organising building information and collaborating around it, and it has preconditions before it pays off.

Construction and reconstruction 6 min read

By Nour Aldein Tleti. Updated 7 October 2026.

What is Building Information Modelling (BIM), and does your company need it?

BIM is a way of working that builds a 3D digital model of the building carrying information about every element: its material, quantity, specification and place in the schedule. The architect, structural engineer, building services engineer and contractor share the same model, so clashes appear before construction. Offices and companies working on large or complex projects need it, while a small contractor gains more from getting reports and materials under control first.

BIM is a way of working, not drawing software

One shared model: Instead of separate drawings for each discipline that may conflict, everyone works on a linked model or coordinated models.
Information along with geometry: A wall in the model is not two lines but an element that knows its material, thickness, cost and construction phase.
Coordination between disciplines: Architectural, structural, electrical and mechanical teams see each other’s work and resolve clashes before reaching the site.
A life after handover: The model can stay with the building through operation and maintenance, so the owner knows where every service runs and the specification of every device.

What does BIM deliver in practice?

Clash detection: Spotting an air-conditioning duct running through a concrete beam on screen, instead of discovering it on site after the pour.
Quantity take-off: Extracting quantities of concrete, rebar, blockwork and finishes directly from the model, and updating them with every change.
Linking time and cost: Linking model elements to the schedule and cost to simulate construction phases and cash flow, known as 4D and 5D.
A clearer presentation for the owner: Showing the project visually makes it easier for the owner to understand the design and make decisions early.

When is BIM a premature step?

No trained staff: Good modelling needs trained engineers, and a poor model is worse than a good drawing.
A small, simple project: A villa or small residential building may not justify the effort of full modelling.
Hardware and power cannot cope: Modelling software needs powerful computers and fairly stable electricity, which requires planning where power cuts are common.
Nobody uses the model: If the contractor and the owner end up working on paper, most of the model’s value is lost.

How an engineering office can start with BIM

01
Define the goal
Clash detection? Quantity take-off? Better presentation for clients? The goal determines the level of modelling needed.
02
Train a small team
One or two engineers master modelling first, then pass the expertise on to the rest of the team.
03
Set working standards
Naming of files and elements, levels of detail, and how models are exchanged between disciplines.
04
Pilot on one project
A medium-sized project with a comfortable schedule, not a critical one with a tight deadline.
05
Evaluate and expand
Compare time, errors and quantities with a similar project delivered the traditional way, then decide whether to expand.

2D drawing versus BIM

Aspect	2D drawing	BIM
Changes	Each plan and section is edited separately	A change in the model is reflected in every view
Quantities	Calculated by hand from drawings	Extracted directly from model elements
Coordination	Comparing drawings by eye	Automatic clash detection between disciplines
What it takes to start	Skills and hardware available in most offices	Training, more powerful hardware and shared working standards

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Frequently asked questions

Does BIM need powerful computers?

Usually yes. Large models need a good processor, memory and graphics card. With power cuts, a backup power source helps protect work from being lost.

Is BIM mandatory in Syria?

Requirements vary by the owner or funding body and the type of project. Check current local requirements and the conditions of each project, as some funders may ask for models to be delivered.

How long does it take to learn BIM?

It depends on the engineer’s background, the software and the level of modelling required. More important than the learning period is applying it to a real project alongside someone experienced.

Does BIM help with restoration projects?

It can help a great deal, especially with an accurate survey of the existing building turned into a model that documents its condition. This helps estimate works and quantities more precisely before intervening.

Can a small contractor benefit from a model prepared by the consultant?

Yes. Even without modelling skills, the contractor can use the model to understand details, extract quantities and check for clashes before construction, if the consultant makes it available in a viewable format.