From September issue of NZ Manufacturer magazine www.nzmanufacturer.co.nz

By Dr Troy Coyle, HERA CEO

Building Information Modelling (BIM) has been a promising tool in the manufacturing and construction industry for decades, yet it remains underutilised in Aotearoa. So, why isn’t it embedded more broadly in our industry? And more importantly, what can we do to unlock its potential?

Since the 1980s, BIM has provided a comprehensive repository of data, enabling better decisions during design, build, and maintenance phases. Unlike traditional CAD models, BIM integrates information that allows computers to perform complex simulations. Yet in New Zealand, BIM’s capabilities are largely untapped.

Old habits die hard

One of the key issues is the way BIM is being used—or not used. Many in the industry continue to treat BIM as an enhanced version of 2D or 3D CAD, using it primarily for its visual modelling capabilities. While there’s certainly value in that, it misses the real power of BIM: its ability to drive collaboration across teams and improve project efficiency.

To maximise BIM’s benefits, we need to adopt it as a process, not just a tool – one that promotes early involvement of all stakeholders, open communication, and collaboration. This means breaking down silos and ensuring all stakeholders, from designers to asset owners, work with the same integrated information. This means looking beyond isolated areas such as clash detection or design coordination, and instead – using it throughout the entire lifecycle of a project.

Misconceptions around cost

One of the reasons for slow uptake is the perception of BIM as a costly, complex tool that only large commercial projects can afford. The reality is that BIM can drive significant cost savings— with global studies suggesting time and cost reductions of 20% to 30% on projects that use it effectively.

However, there’s hesitancy to invest in the necessary technology and training. The upfront costs of implementing BIM often obscure its long-term benefits, particularly for small to mid-sized firms. In a heavy engineering industry known for being risk-averse, this short-term thinking can stifle innovation.

Where to from here?

For BIM to transform Aotearoa New Zealand’s construction and manufacturing sectors, we need more than just individual adoption—we need industry-wide collaboration. This includes comprehensive training, greater investment in technology, and a shift in mindset that sees BIM as essential for projects of all sizes.

At HERA, we’re leading the charge in showing how BIM, combined with Construction 4.0 technologies like AI and IoT, can improve project outcomes. Through our research, we’re developing case studies that demonstrate how BIM can be applied in New Zealand’s unique environment, providing a roadmap for the industry to follow. The technology is here, and the benefits are clear—it’s up to us to embrace this change.