BIM vs. CAD: Decoding the tools of architectural design

As we know, the industry of architecture has seen huge improvements over the years, largely influenced by technological innovations. Among these, CAD and BIM have emerged as pivotal tools. Indeed, BIM and CAD software tools are what both experts and even beginners cannot do without. In the 1950s, CAD was introduced, which completely changed the way architects and engineers created designs transitioning from manual to digital drafting.

BIM, which has existed since the 1970s, is currently being used as a more comprehensive process that entails not just designing but also building data management throughout its life.

3D Modeling vs. CAD

When discussing these tools, feeling the distinctions between 3D modeling and CAD is crucial. What’s AutoCAD and CAD? Traditional CAD software such as AutoCAD has been heavily relied upon for producing accurate 2D drawings and simple 3D models (that can be printed afterward, if you need). Such CAD files are primarily detailed visualizations of structures critical in design or documentation processes.

Now, what are BIM files? On the contrary, BIM files are beyond geometric data. Here, building information modeling combines several dimensions of information, such as materials, costs, and scheduling, into one model. It fosters increased cooperation among network participants during construction. While an architect’s CAD solely focuses on drawing and visualization, BIM encompasses all aspects of a building project from inception to demolition.

• Coverage: While computer-aided design covers 2D basic 3D drawings only, BIM contains detailed data on building components and systems. 
• Collaboration: Unlike computer-aided design, which is generally individualistic in orientation, BIM allows several stakeholders to work together on a given project at once. 
• Life cycle management: Unlike computer-aided design, which mainly concerns the design phase of buildings; BIM provides tools for managing a whole lifecycle of a structure. 

These differences illustrate why many architects have moved away from using AutoCAD toward adopting Revit-based applications enabling them access integrated data among other advantages enhancing project management capabilities.

What makes them different?

Application Area

What are CAD files? CAD started back in the late 1950s. CAD software changed the need of creating drafts and doing calculations manually by doing calculations automatically, thus saving a lot of time and effort. The software enhanced geometric accuracy through its verification and validation tools which include:

• Visualization.
• Simulation (basic).
• Clash analysis.
• Documentation.

These enabled architects to visualize their structures more effectively, making designs less prone to error.

Originally, this technology was for 2D design but now it also supports 3D design. Nevertheless, the 3D variant of this tool can be inconvenient for designers, causing many architects to switch to BIM-based software like Revit.

But one must understand that BIM cannot be equated with any other software. Even though BIM has existed since the early 1970s, its development received tremendous impetus upon the introduction of ArchiCAD in 1982, created by Gábor Bojár. By combining design processes into one digital model, BIM integrates both construction and management. What is included?

• Full info about the building’s components.
• Materials.
• Systems.

Information and data

Data processing is one of the main differences between both options. CAD focuses on generating precise visual representation of designs in 2D or 3D form. These drawings contain dimensions, annotations, layers but do not have enough information to manage construction buildings.

On the other hand, BIM entails creating a digital replica of the actual building. This model is filled with details picked from various sources as it captures more than just geometric features. For example, a BIM model of a wall would include information about its materials, insulation, fire rating, and cost, among other details. This type of comprehensive dataset makes it easier to move through the life cycle of a given building starting from design phase up to post-construction maintenance.

Change management

In the architectural sphere, change management is extremely important. Typically projects undergo several changes and revisions and managing these changes has a great role in determining project overall success.

• With CAD, when you make changes to your drawing your design, you need to update manually all your drawings. When any alteration happens on one part of the drawing all other affected drawings must be updated manually too. It takes time especially for large complicated projects which are prone to mistakes.

• This issue is better addressed by BIM. Clients will receive an integrated model version that carries all necessary components related to their infrastructure systems. For instance, once a door moves from one location to another in the BIM model, then instantaneously it updates all views, plans cuttings, etc. As mentioned earlier, this automatic collaboration diminishes error chances ensuring that all users are updated with current information.

Projected opportunities

The technologies CAD and BIM keep evolving thus shaping future architectural design space today. However many architects still rely on CAD as an essential tool since majority clients’ requirements can be met by using two-dimensional drafting or simple three-dimensional modeling techniques. Its wide application in architectural firms and user-friendly interface makes it the most widely used software in this field.

Nevertheless, BIM is driving towards more integrated and efficient project delivery. The amazing chance to create detailed, data-rich models improves collaboration and communication among stakeholders. 

We are to expect more sophisticated features such as real-time simulation, augmented reality (AR), and artificial intelligence (AI) for predictive analysis, among others. 

These improvements are anticipated to breathe a new lease of life into the building industry.

CAD benefits

• Time Efficiency: Reduces manual drafting time.
• Geometric Perfection: Offers tools for verification and validation.
• Visualization: Enhances the ability to visualize structures accurately.
• Error Reduction: Minimizes human error through automated processes.
• Flexibility: It supports both 2D and 3D designs, though 3D can be cumbersome.

BIM benefits

• Perfect Integration of Data: Creates a detailed digital twin.
• Enhanced Collaboration: Makes it possible for stakeholders to access and modify the model.
• Automated Updates: Changes to the model automatically update all related components.
• Multiple Dimensions: Supports 3-8D modeling.
• Lifecycle Management: Facilitates management during the entire life cycle.

Final thoughts

Hopefully, our BIM and CAD software comparison was helpful for you. Development of these tools highlights the need to adapt to newer technologies, which is crucial for competitiveness. By using these tools, you will be able to improve your design process, enhance collaboration among partner firms and give superior projects.

If you are looking to elevate your architectural design capabilities, our services can help you integrate the best technologies into your workflow. Genense professionals can help you to get through this maze of a tool so that you can use it better in line with your design objectives and other business goals. Order our services now and see a significant rise in project efficiency.