BIM is becoming mandatory. Is it worth investing in BIM for you? Many manufacturers of technical products that are used in construction projects are currently asking themselves this question. After all, Building Information Modeling (BIM) is no longer just a trendy topic, but an integral part of the digital transformation of the construction industry. Since the end of 2020, the Federal Ministry of Transport and Digital Infrastructure has committed to the use of BIM in public infrastructure projects as part of its phased plan. The BIM master plan for federal buildings also provides for BIM to be introduced across all lifecycles of federal buildings by 2027, while private construction projects have so far been excluded.
But what does that mean for manufacturers? Those who make their products digitally plannable at an early stage gain strategic advantages. This article explains why investing in BIM is worthwhile, what challenges are realistic, and how BIM can be embedded in a broader digital strategy.
In short: Building Information Modeling (BIM)
BIM is a method for digital, structured, and collaborative planning of construction projects. Unlike traditional CAD models, which contain only geometric information, BIM connects 3D models with technical attributes, classifications, and lifecycle data.
What does that mean for manufacturers? Products are no longer delivered as geometry alone but as intelligent data objects that can be directly embedded into digital planning processes.
Typical BIM data from a manufacturer’s perspective includes:
Those who provide structured data become visible to planners and architects—and can position their products much earlier in the project lifecycle.
The legal framework is clear:
But it’s not just legislation driving BIM forward. Studies show tangible benefits in practice:
Private tenders are also increasingly following the trend. Those who prepare today will remain competitive tomorrow.
Many manufacturers currently face a gap between ambition and implementation.
Typical pain points include:
Despite its challenges, BIM offers clear strategic advantages:
BIM increases not only efficiency but also market opportunity and trust among project stakeholders.
The following questions can help you evaluate your current position realistically:
Question | Relevance for BIM investment |
Are our products used in construction planning? | Yes → BIM provides visibility |
Do we work with public-sector clients? | Yes → BIM is already mandatory or will be soon |
Are our product data already structured and maintainable? | Yes → Ideal for automated delivery |
Are CAD/dimensional drawings already in use? | Yes → BIM is the next logical step |
Do we have internal resources for data structuring and maintenance? | No → Foundation work is needed (see follow-up article) |
BIM is not an end in itself—and not a standalone digital project. It is part of a broader strategy that connects product data, CPQ systems, PIM integrations, and digital sales processes. Those who invest early in clean, automatically generated data benefit not only in public tenders but also position themselves strongly for the future in a digitalized construction industry.
Read also: “Providing BIM Data Automatically, Efficiently, and in an Integrated Way” to learn how manufacturers can deliver their data efficiently and system-integrated—and how tools like CADClick® support the process.
MANFRED MAYER
Senior Sales Representative
INA ROGALEV
Junior Marketing Manager
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