Parametric BIM Models: How are they different from CAD Models?

Well, there is a huge difference between CAD models and BIM models, but this cannot be identified by those who do not have any connection with Architecture, Engineering and Construction industry. In this blog I am going to shed some light on the difference between the models developed through CAD applications like AutoCAD and ArchiCAD or those models which are created through BIM software Revit.

Well, the first difference between the models produced after the application of CAD technology and BIM technology is that Building Information Models are parametric models whereas the models produced with the application of CAD solutions are not parametric models. Now, I am sure that you must be thinking ‘what are parametric models?'. Though there is a very thin line between parametric BIM models and CAD models but that has been accountable for making a grave difference between their utilities.

Parametric Models are any day much more useful then CAD models as architects and engineers can effectively manipulate the information contained in them for the betterment of the design. However, the manipulation and alteration of design information captured in the models developed through Computer aided design technology is not possible easily.  

Hence we can say that, design and construction professionals have a huge chance to improve the design of architecture, structure and MEP disciplines if they have created Parametric BIM Modeling for them.  The information captured in Building Information Models can be swiftly communicated to all the building stakeholders whenever they require.

Another important advantage of BIM models is that design and construction professionals can include a variety of other important information in them which is essential for the proper management of construction projects.

For example they can include information related to construction, time, cost, scheduling, material takeoffs, bill of materials, and sustainability in parametric Building Information Models.  And it's true that design and construction professionals can never ever include such kind of information in the 3D models produced through AutoCAD, which is a CAD application. Hence, when it comes making use of comprehensive information related to construction projects, architects, engineers and construction managers cannot do that with the support of CAD models.

However, all the details which are present in BIM models can be used by building stakeholders for making the construction process more efficient and productive. Before actual construction the information included in BIM models can be properly evaluated by architects, engineers and construction managers so that desired outcomes can be obtained.