The MEP Contractor's Guide to Constructibility
6
The MEP Workflow
In decades past, MEP contractors often followed a workflow that incorporated 2D
design drawings (both architectural and structural), which were then manually
converted into 3D models using software like AutoDesk Revit or SketchUp. These
models allowed for clash resolution, a valuable means of identifying and eliminating
problems in the design before they led to costly fabrication or installation errors and
rework. Then, additional 2D drawings and schematics would be produced as needed
by fabricators, installers, and professionals in other departments.
While this workflow was superior to the pre-BIM methods in many ways, it doesn't
hold up today considering how far the requisite technology has progressed. There's
no longer any need to manually convert drawings into models and back again, since
a truly connected workflow based on The Constructible Process allows for the
use of the same content-enabled, constructible models throughout the entire
building project.
As a result:
MEP contractors can capitalize on the clash identification, visualization, and data-
rich benefits of these models while avoiding the potential problems inherent in
every manual process.
The information contained in the model can be updated once with the new version
becoming instantly available to all stakeholders in real-time.
By fully utilizing the available technology and adopting the more collaborative
approach to complete project management that The Constructible Process facilitates,
MEP contractors will find their place in the following generic workflow to be most
profitable and advantageous.
