BIM in Project Management

What was once dismissed as a complicated software gimmick is now becoming a key competitive advantage. But adopting this new way of working with BIM requires expertise and the right conditions. Sascha Bahlau, Managing Director of engineering firm LOUPZ and seasoned BIM expert, shares in this interview why companies can no longer ignore BIM—and how to get started without derailing projects or burning out teams.

Interview with Sascha Bahlau, M.A., B.Eng.

What benefits does BIM offer companies?

By applying the BIM methodology, our engineering firm can handle projects more efficiently. We’re able to pass part of that efficiency gain on to our clients through more attractive proposals. Delivering object-oriented data models increases the value of our planning results while also allowing us to offer them at a lower cost.

BIM offers a wide range of benefits across all project phases. Depending on the company’s perspective, it’s important to identify where data-driven workflows can create real value.

In planning processes, BIM enhances planning reliability through consistent data usage, significantly reduces errors and clashes, and improves overall quality. Greater transparency also strengthens collaboration across disciplines. Optimized data management enables a centralized data source for all stakeholders, improves data availability and quality, reduces information loss through more efficient management, and provides a reliable foundation for every phase of the project.

Working with stakeholders who are less technically inclined is also much easier. Decision-making processes with users or financial stakeholders become far more resilient.

How does BIM strengthen a company’s competitiveness?

BIM has become a decisive competitive factor in the construction industry. Companies with BIM expertise are more likely to win bids and tap into growing markets, as clients increasingly demand or expect BIM as a standard. Those who lack BIM skills or credentials face major hurdles in acquiring new projects.

Efficient and well-integrated use of BIM creates a competitive edge: more content can be delivered in the same amount of time with fewer errors. The next evolution of BIM will involve integrating AI. In the long run, structured and well-documented datasets will form the basis for AI-driven planning. Eliminating repetitive tasks, skipping shallow planning stages, and avoiding data loss will allow firms to focus their full capacity on engineering value creation.

What are the key requirements for successfully implementing BIM in a project?

Successful BIM implementation goes beyond technical aspects and requires several foundational elements. These can be grouped into four key areas: processes, people, technologies, and standards. Within these areas, critical factors include stakeholder buy-in, clear project goals and use cases, defined roles and responsibilities, open-mindedness, methodological experience and skills, and a functioning Common Data Environment (CDE).

Why are some companies still hesitant to adopt BIM?

From my experience, there are several reasons companies hesitate to make the leap to BIM. First, human nature: why change something that works? Many firms have built functioning structures over the years and are reluctant to risk switching to a new planning method. Then there are real economic concerns. The costs of switching—hardware, software, training—are significant, especially in uncertain economic times. On top of that, clients are no longer willing to cover these costs through higher fees.

The shortage of skilled professionals adds to the challenge: qualified BIM staff are hard to find. Many also see only the complexity at first—BIM can seem intimidating due to partial automation and data flows that aren’t immediately transparent. This is compounded by a kind of “BIM villain image”: failed pilot projects and overly bureaucratic requirements from large public clients have created a negative perception.

What typical challenges do you face when introducing BIM in companies?

BIM needs to be introduced top-down but must work bottom-up. That means empowering employees in their roles and gradually building up their responsibilities and skills in using BIM. Implementation shouldn’t fail due to technical barriers. Hardware, software, and workflows must be designed to support project success. BIM should reduce effort—not become the latest buzzword. Building competence requires widespread training and practical explanations, and readiness to implement can be boosted through clear examples and quick wins.

What trends and developments do you currently see in the digitalization of construction projects?

Several key trends are emerging in the digitalization of construction. AI technologies are increasingly used in planning—both for algorithmic design and generative modeling with minimal parameters. Collaborative platforms like Common Data Environments (CDEs) enable centralized information management and better communication among all stakeholders. The next step must be an open CDE ecosystem. Digital twins accurately reflect reality in the model. Sustainability reports are generated directly from models, supporting both the planning phase and post-completion documentation.

LOUPZ is an accredited provider of certification prep. Together with next level academy, you offer BIM training. What can participants expect from the BIM Foundation course?

Our BIM Foundation training, developed in collaboration with next level academy, offers a comprehensive introduction to the BIM methodology. We place a strong emphasis on practical exercises and group work to ensure participants not only learn the theory but also understand how BIM applies to their everyday professional context.

How do companies benefit from their employees earning the BIM Foundation certificate?

The BIM Foundation certificate creates a shared knowledge base across teams. Everyone speaks the same language when it comes to BIM, which significantly improves internal collaboration. It also serves as a tangible qualification for bidding processes. One of the biggest advantages is knowledge transfer: trained employees often become internal ambassadors who motivate others and help train them. Ultimately, companies gain a clearer understanding of where and how BIM can create real value within their operations.

Who is the BIM Foundation certificate especially relevant for?

This certificate is ideal for individuals who are just beginning to explore BIM. The focus is on building a common understanding of the methodology and its context. It doesn’t matter what industry or company size participants come from—BIM can be applied across all types of projects and sectors.

With the BIM Foundation training, participants take their first step into the digital future of construction.

Thank you very much for the interview!