Integrating BIM for Structural, Cost, and Schedule Optimization: Evidence from a Comparative Construction Study
Prasun Kumar1& Dr. Kashfina Kapadia Memon2
1PG Student, Department of Civil Engineering, Technocrats Institute of Technology-CSE Bhopal, India
2 Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, Technocrats Institute of Technology Bhopal, India
Corresponding Author:prasunupadhyay1997@gmail.com
ABSTRACT: Building Information Modelling (BIM) has emerged as a transformative approach in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry, enabling enhanced visualization, coordination, and data-driven decision-making. Despite its increasing adoption, quantitative evidence demonstrating BIM’s effectiveness in structural and schedule optimization compared to traditional practices remains limited. This study investigates the application of BIM for structural optimization and construction scheduling, with a particular focus on cost efficiency and performance improvement. The results demonstrate that the BIM-assisted approach achieved an overall cost reduction of approximately 4.33% compared to traditional estimation methods, with notable savings observed in structural framing and fenestration components. BIM-based modelling also improved accuracy in quantity estimation, enhanced coordination among disciplines, and supported informed decision-making during early design stages. The findings confirm that BIM offers measurable benefits in structural optimization and construction efficiency, highlighting its potential as a reliable decision-support tool for modern construction projects.A BIM-based workflow was developed using Autodesk Revit to create a detailed three-dimensional structural model incorporating geometric, material, and design parameters. The proposed approach was evaluated through a comparative analysis between conventional manual estimation and BIM-assisted methods. Key structural components—including columns, framing, slabs, walls, and openings were analyzed in terms of quantity take-off, cost estimation, and structural response parameters. Additionally, BIM-enabled coordination and clash detection were examined for their influence on construction efficiency and schedule reliability.
Keywords:BIM; structural optimization; parametric modelling; evolutionary algorithms; multi-objective optimization; digital twin; artificial intelligence; sustainability; performance-based design; lifecycle optimization
