BIM for Construction: Driving efficiency, collaboration, and growth

When different teams involved in a construction project work off different source information or in separate systems, mistakes often pile up. This can mean rework, missed deadlines, and unhappy clients, all of which eat into your bottom line.

But there’s a better way to work. Building Information Modelling (BIM) is changing how projects come together, giving construction teams a smarter, more efficient way to plan, design, and manage builds. BIM isn’t just a 3D model—it’s a central hub where everyone involved in a project can access up-to-date, detailed information. This means fewer surprises, fewer errors, and better results from start to finish.

Here’s what you need to know about BIM and why it’s becoming a must-have for construction businesses looking to stay competitive.

What is BIM?

At its core, Building Information Modelling is a digital tool that helps construction teams create 3D models of buildings and job sites. But it’s more than just plans — BIM brings all the important project information into one place, making it easier for everyone to stay on the same page.

Think of it like this: when everyone involved can see exactly what the finished project will look like, along with all the details needed to get there, it’s easier to spot problems early, avoid mistakes, and keep things moving smoothly. Modern BIM systems act as a single source of truth where all users can view, adjust, and improve plans for smoother design, construction, and operation.

Why it matters more than ever

Builders have always relied on detailed plans to bring projects to life. But as construction projects get bigger and more complex, traditional methods can’t keep up. Delays, budget blowouts, and miscommunication are common issues that slow down progress and eat into profits.

Studies show that about 30% of construction work ends up being rework — fixing mistakes that could have been avoided. This rework can cost up to 5% of a project’s total budget. BIM helps solve these problems by improving collaboration, reducing errors, and streamlining workflows.

As Australia and New Zealand face growing demands for infrastructure and sustainable building practices, BIM is becoming essential. Governments are starting to require BIM for public projects, and private clients are following suit. If your business isn’t using BIM, you risk falling behind the competition.

How does BIM work?

BIM is more than a design tool — it’s used throughout the entire lifecycle of a building, from planning to construction to maintenance:

• Planning: BIM helps you visualise the project before construction begins. It uses real-world data to show how the building will fit into its environment, helping teams spot potential issues early.
• Design: The design phase is one of the most complex parts of any project. BIM makes it easier to manage plans, analyse performance, and keep everyone up to date with the latest information. It simplifies scheduling and ensures the right people have access to the right data.
• Construction: During construction, BIM helps guide the process by providing clear specifications and shared documents. This keeps teams aligned, reduces errors, and helps avoid costly delays.
• Operation: Once the building is finished, detailed models can support ongoing maintenance, future renovations, and even demolition.

The top 10 benefits

BIM offers a range of benefits that can help construction businesses improve efficiency and profitability. They include:

1. Better Collaboration: Everyone on the project team can access the same up-to-date information, reducing the need for back-and-forth emails and requests for information.
2. Improved Planning: BIM makes it easier to plan schedules and visualise the project, helping teams spot potential issues before they become problems.
3. More Accurate Cost Estimates: With all project details in one place, BIM makes it easier to calculate costs and manage budgets more effectively.
4. Reduced Risk: BIM helps identify and resolve potential clashes early in the project, reducing the risk of costly rework.
5. Improved Safety: BIM can model hazardous areas and help teams plan safer work environments.
6. Increased Efficiency: By reducing errors and improving communication, BIM helps projects run more smoothly.
7. Faster Project Delivery: With better planning and fewer mistakes, BIM helps ensure projects finish on time — reducing the potential for costly delays.
8. Greater Sustainability: helps reduce waste and improve energy efficiency, making projects more sustainable.
9. Better Communication: improves communication across teams by providing a single source of truth.
10. Competitive Advantage: Using BIM can improve project quality and help your business stand out in a competitive market.

How BIM and ERP work together

While BIM is great for planning and design, Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems help manage the day-to-day operations of your construction business. When you integrate with an ERP system, you get the best of both worlds — streamlined workflows and better decision-making.

For example, MYOB Acumatica integrates with Procore BIM, allowing construction teams to manage 3D models alongside budgets, schedules, and other important project data. This integration ensures that everyone on the team has access to real-time information, helping to reduce delays, avoid mistakes, and keep projects on track.

Future-proof your business

The construction industry is changing fast, and technology like BIM is leading the way. By improving efficiency, collaboration, and project quality, BIM helps businesses overcome common challenges and stay competitive in a demanding market.

If you’re looking to streamline your operations and future-proof your construction business, now’s the time to explore how BIM — and tools like MYOB Acumatica and Procore — can help you build better, faster, and smarter.

Information provided in this article is of a general nature and does not consider your personal situation. It does not constitute legal, financial, or other professional advice and should not be relied upon as a statement of law, policy or advice. You should consider whether this information is appropriate to your needs and, if necessary, seek independent advice. This information is only accurate at the time of publication. Although every effort has been made to verify the accuracy of the information contained on this webpage, MYOB disclaims, to the extent permitted by law, all liability for the information contained on this webpage or any loss or damage suffered by any person directly or indirectly through relying on this information.