BIM isn't just for those who model. Managers also play a crucial role in implementation. Understand the strategic points to make clearer decisions.
In recent years, the term BIM for managers gained traction in discussions about digital transformation in the AEC sector.
And that makes perfect sense: the adoption of BIM has ceased to be a purely technical decision and has become a strategic choice that needs to be... starting from the leadership.
But for many managers without technical training, BIM still seems distant, confusing, or restricted to designers.
The good news is that You don't need to be a 3D modeling expert to lead the change.. What you need is clarity, process vision, and technical support.
In this article, we will explain what every manager needs to know before implementing BIM in their company, focusing on strategic decisions, first steps, and the most common mistakes you can (and should) avoid.
Why is BIM not just a technical topic?
It's common to associate BIM only with software or with engineering and architecture teams. But this view is limited.
O BIM (Building Information Modeling) is a collaborative work methodology.. It involves processes, standardization, technology, and management. In other words, it goes far beyond 3D modeling.
Those in leadership positions need to understand that BIM directly impacts the company, including:
- Strategic decision-making;
- Structuring workflows;
- Budgeting and financial control;
- Deadlines, schedules and deliverables;
- Organizational culture.
Without the support of managers, BIM becomes just "another technical software"—and loses much of its transformative potential.
What do managers need to understand about BIM?
You don't need to know how to use it. Revit, ...Navisworks or understanding what a "clash" is. But there are some key concepts What every manager needs to master to safely lead the adoption of BIM:
1. BIM is a process, not just a technology.
Implementing BIM requires rethinking how projects are developed, communicated, and executed.
2. There are different levels of BIM maturity.
Your company can evolve gradually. It's neither necessary nor advisable to implement everything at once.
3. BIM delivers strategic value.
Greater control over deadlines, predictable costs, reduced rework, and data-driven decisions.
4. BIM requires integration between areas.
It doesn't work in isolated departments. It's a multidisciplinary process that connects all the dots.
5. Is it possible to measure the return on investment (ROI)?
With indicators for productivity, rework, costs, and time.
What are the most common implementation errors?
Many companies become frustrated with the adoption of BIM for making mistakes that could have been avoided with clearer management. See the main ones:
To begin without having made a diagnosis.
Ignoring the company's current stage, its capabilities, and internal bottlenecks.
Focusing only on the tool, and not on the process.
Implementing software without changing the culture, workflows, or skills will not yield results.
Delegate everything to the technical team.
Without leadership involvement, BIM becomes something piecemeal and unsustainable.
Trying to implement everything at once
Ideally, progress should be made in stages, with clear objectives and realistic goals.
Lack of planning and technical support
Without specialized support, there is rework, wasted time, and low team buy-in.
First strategic steps for adopting BIM.
If you are a manager and want to start (or better structure) the implementation of BIM in your company, here are the most important initial steps:
1. Conduct a BIM maturity assessment.
Understand the starting point: what processes exist, what is the team's technical level, what are the current workflows.
2. Establish clear objectives.
Want to reduce rework? Improve budgets? Optimize planning? Define goals to guide the process.
3. Involve all areas
BIM is not just the responsibility of engineering. Include procurement, planning, IT, and even the sales team.
4. Invest in training and support.
Training the team is essential. And having specialized consulting, like that offered by Cadbim, helps avoid strategic mistakes.
5. Start small, but with structure.
Start with a pilot project. Validate workflows, fix flaws, and only then scale to other projects.
The role of managers in BIM culture.
In addition to leading the implementation, the manager plays an essential role in supporting BIM culture within the company. This includes:
- To set an example and get involved in the rituals of the process;
- Promote clear communication between departments;
- Ensure continuous investment in training and tools;
- Demand results, but with a long-term vision;
- To reinforce the value of BIM as an efficiency strategy, not just as a design tool.
When leadership buys into the idea and acts collaboratively, BIM adoption ceases to be solely "for the technical team" and becomes... of the company.
You don't need to be technical, you need to be strategic.
Implementing BIM is a management decision. It doesn't require you to know how to model, but rather that you have the necessary skills. Process vision, focus on results, and reliable technical support..
Success lies not in how many software programs your company adopts, but in... how it transforms the way we work, design, communicate and execute.
Cadbim walks alongside companies that are in this moment of transition. With diagnosis, a structured plan, and continuous support, we help you implement BIM the right way, respecting your team's pace and your business objectives.
Want to know where to start and how to safely structure the adoption of BIM?
Speak to a Cadbim specialist. Let's understand your situation, develop a plan, and walk together on your company's digital transformation.