Bridging the Gap Between Design and Construction

Convergence of Design and Technology

Building information modeling (BIM) intertwines the design process with technology and bridges the gap between design and construction. This cutting-edge technology allows SAIC to have a more competitive edge. "BIM isn't just a technology, it's a new design and construction process," said Joseph Joseph, SAIC managing director of BIM and computer-aided design (CAD) technologies. "BIM changes the culture in the way we as a company do business. And we're investing in ourselves to do a better job for our customers."

Traditionally, architectural and engineering and construction projects rely on two-dimensional (2-D) renderings that can only be used for the initial construction and are costly and timely to update. SAIC's BIM process uses three-dimensional (3-D) models that are easy to update and can be used long after a building has already been constructed for future maintenance or renovations. It makes it much easier for customers to visualize the space and provide their input so we can deliver what they want faster and more efficiently.

At SAIC, we are also BIM strategy consultants for our customers as well as for many manufacturers in the industry. We focus on strategic and technical BIM implementation for our customers and helping them understand the benefits of BIM. That way they understand the full value of using the technology.

Cross Team Integration

Another advantage of BIM is the ability for all parties involved in a project to engage simultaneously. Owners, architects, interior designers, engineers, and constructors are all able to provide input in the early phases of a project. BIM allows us to integrate engineering programs and Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®) and sustainable elements early in the design process to show customer options for building systems with those elements.

"Engaging all the construction staff and/or contractors much earlier in the process allows [SAIC] to get their feedback on constructability," Joseph said. In other words, if you can point out potential problems with construction virtually before construction event starts, it saves time and money.

SAIC Delivers On-time and Ahead of Schedule

We focus our BIM services on designing and building the best facilities for our customers. For example, SAIC provided full DesignBuild^SM project delivery services, including BIM, for a new 86,341-square-foot cargo aircraft hangar at Robins Air Force Base, Ga., for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Savannah District.

"[SAIC] has done excellent work for us in representing good value for taxpayer dollar." - Brigadier General Lee Levy

"[SAIC] has done excellent work for us in representing good value for taxpayer dollar," said Brigadier General Lee Levy at the ribbon cutting for the cargo hangar. "A lot of times you hear negativity about building new projects in respect to government construction, but I would tell you this building is on budget and ahead of schedule."

View the full U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Savannah District Project Profile »

Virtually Building More Efficient Buildings

SAIC's BIM process uses various advanced software technologies and procedural workflows to virtually design, study, and build smarter, more efficient buildings containing intelligent 3-D dynamic components. We use BIM in all sorts of buildings from facilities to industrial-type structures.

Learn more about SAIC's BIM capabilities.