to greater knowledge , the bedrock on which confident decisions can be made in later decades .
At its simplest , this knowledge can be embedded in a 3D digital model that mirrors exactly the real physical asset . Known as building information models ( BIM ), these can contain hosted and relational information on every object within the physical asset . They are an archive for everything , from materials to appliance installation instructions and maintenance logs .
They can aid efficient operation throughout the life-cycle of an asset ; employees are able to locate hidden pipes and power networks , know whether enclosed air conditioning units are under warranty , and even understand how to dismantle sections at the decommissioning stage .
A detailed digital model can become a powerful predictive tool for forecasting operational costs and any remodelling , remediation , or repair times . This knowledge can cut cost and save time .
For example , imagine a scenario in which an adhesive commonly used in building materials is suddenly discovered to be dangerous to human health . A good model would not only identify the location of every item containing the toxic matter , it would also show the surroundings and orientation of each . Contrast that with the complex , expensive and time-consuming surveys that must be carried out when searching for asbestos in older buildings today .
The people factor As the above example illustrates , BIM offers tangible benefits for managing assets in the short and
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