A feasibility study is a formal analysis of a planned project, assessing its chances of success and possible technical, economic, legal, operational and time constraints (TELOS). The purpose of the study is to select the best option for implementation, analyse the risks, profitability and the impact of the project on the environment and the community.
In Brief:
Development of a Feasibility Study
A feasibility study is a complex process in which many factors must be taken into account. BIM methodology allows us to develop a parameterized model in which we integrate data from various sources:
- Project data
- Design documentation
- 3D models – with detailed additional information, such as materials, technical properties, operating conditions, etc.
- Geographical data
- Numerical terrain model, information on geological, hydrological and other conditions that affect the project.
- GIS data
- Data on development conditions, zoning plans, geodetic records.
- Financial data
- Project cost estimates that can be generated automatically from the BIM model.
- Financial analyses and forecasts for project profitability.
- Environmental data
- Assessments of potential environmental impacts of the project, including emissions, noise and impacts on local ecosystems.
- Information on the energy efficiency of the designed solutions.
- Risk data
- Identification of potential risks associated with the project and strategies to minimise them.
- Simulations and predictive models to assess the impact of different scenarios on the project.
A multi-dimensional BIM model that allows the integration of the above-mentioned data not only in the three dimensions, but also as a function of time, money, environmental impact and community is the ideal tool for conducting a robust feasibility study.
Cost and Schedule Analysis
Currently, construction investments in infrastructure tend to fall far behind the planned schedule. This leads to an increase in the total cost of project implementation, which is practically the norm. Traditional planning approaches tend to be based on simplistic assumptions, which can lead to costly errors in subsequent project phases.
BIM methodology allows for accurate financial forecasts and realistic schedules. In BIM, costs can be controlled by analyzing different scenarios and modifying the parameterized model in real time.
BIM supports the optimization of schedules. 4D (time) models allow the construction process to be simulated. This makes it possible to assess how long each stage of the work will take and to avoid delays due to under-planning.
Identifying Risks and Collisions
Every infrastructure project involves risks, both technical and financial. One of the advantages of using BIM methodology is that potential clashes can be identified at the design stage. A project feasibility study using BIM is produced using a parameterized model that combines design data with geographical (GIS), hydrodynamic and other models, and engineering. This approach, when clashes or other problems are encountered, facilitates the development of variant solutions.
What in traditional, ‘flat’ designs can only be detected at the construction stage, in BIM can be identified at the design stage. This is not theory. At HydroBIM, we had to deal with such a case while working for AECOM. Integrating the data in the BIM model avoided problems that threatened the success of the entire project.
Benefits of BIM in the Feasibility Study
The use of BIM methodology in the preparation of feasibility studies for linear infrastructure projects brings a number of significant benefits:
- Improved assessment of technical feasibility
- Ability to create accurate 3D models of the projects
- Simulation of the operation of designed systems and equipment
- Identification of potential clashes and construction problems at an early stage
- Reliable risk analysis
- Identification and assessment of risks based on detailed 3D models
- Simulation of scenarios and their impact on the project
- Develop risk mitigation strategies
- Improved communication and collaboration
- Visualisation of the project to facilitate understanding of the concept
- Common platform to work on feasibility studies
- Stakeholder involvement and feedback at an early stage
- Acceleration of the study preparation process
- Automation of many project activities
- Better organisation of the team’s work
- Reduction of time needed to develop a feasibility study
The use of BIM in feasibility studies for linear infrastructure projects allows for a comprehensive, data-driven rather than opinion-based assessment of project feasibility. Thus, BIM supports the decision-making process and increases the chances of investment success.
Support in Decision on Environmental Conditions
In infrastructure projects, the environmental impact of investments is inevitable. In order to examine and minimise the environmental impact of an investment, the integration of BIM project data and GIS information in the model provides excellent results. This allows us to assess how the project will affect the ecosystems. In HydroBIM, we also use hydraulic, hydrological and hydrodynamic modelling, which allows us to optimize the project in terms of runoff, retention and flood prevention.
We have repeatedly found that 3D visualizations facilitate communication with authorities and local communities, and this speeds up the consent process. You can read more about this topic here.
HydroBIM – BIM Specialists for Linear Infrastructure Projects
Modern projects require modern tools. BIM, as HydroBIM practice shows, is the key to investment success. Use the knowledge and experience of the HydroBIM team for the success of your project.