BIM and AI: A Call for Open Discussion and Collaboration

The AECO industry is facing a new wave of technological advancements, particularly in BIM, GIS, and AI. To navigate these changes effectively, open communication and community are more crucial than ever. I recently returned to social media and was reminded of the power of connection, prompting me to reflect on the history of BIM user groups.

Early Revit users connected in online forums and later in in-person gatherings, often supported by vendors. This collaborative spirit fueled the growth and success of BIM. But as the market matured and search engines became readily available, participation in these groups waned. Now, as we face the complexities of incorporating AI, this same spirit of collaboration is needed more than ever.

How can we make informed decisions about AI without open dialogue? We need to hear from users, not just vendors. (No offense, vendors, you're doing a great job!) Whether your outlook is optimistic or cautious, sharing your experiences—successes and failures—is essential. This prevents others from repeating mistakes and sparks new ideas. We need to foster personal, local connections. If in-person meetings aren't feasible, virtual gatherings will do. But let's talk to our colleagues, contemporaries, even our competitors. Let's not repeat the mistakes of vintage CAD firms, guarding their "secret sauce."

I'm committed to contributing to this conversation by continuing to share my thoughts on BIM, GIS, and AI. I'm also reaching out to my colleagues at the South Coast Revit Users Group (SCRUG) to explore how we can revitalize local engagement. I encourage you to join local groups, participate in online discussions, and share your own experiences. Let's find out what's really going on.

#BIM #AECO #DigitalConstruction #BuildingInformationModeling #GIS #AIinConstruction #BIMCommunity #Revit