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This blog post was originally written in 2019, at a time when it felt important to introduce BIM to the building industry. At that time it opened like this: have you heard the expression BIM? Probably. Especially if you work within real estate, construction or installation systems. However, what it actually is, may be unclear or feel abstract. Today, it is relevant to look at BIM from past-to-present, as it has developed significantly over the years. Mike Ward, BIM & Digital Construction Manager at Swegon, will explain.
BIM has always been an acronym for Building Information Modelling, but the concept itself has changed over time. BIM refers to the creation of a 3D model or drawing during the project planning phase, with the aim of improving decision-making and simplifying the building process. Particularly important is the information stored within the model and shared between designers, contractors and users.
In 2019, BIM was described as a collection point for information about, for example, a building or product, a kind of linked “library”. At that time, the history of BIM was described as traceable about 50 years back. Up until the 1970s, drawings were created by hand on paper. After that, digitalisation began with 2D computer-aided designs (CAD) and later 3D CAD. Even then, it was clear that the development would continue, though it is questionable whether anyone could have foreseen what BIM would become today.
What BIM could do then, and what it is today (2026)
In 2019: The information contained in a BIM model determines what it can be used for. Application areas include:
- Better understanding of concepts and completed buildings
- Improved coordination and fewer errors during planning and construction
- Reduced time losses during the building phase
- Improved estimation of cost, time and materials
- Better productivity and quality
- Simplified administration
Since 2019, the most significant change has been the level of adoption and the number of countries now requiring BIM for their public-sector or high-risk construction projects.
On the data input side, there has been an increased use of laser point clouds to define existing or in-progress buildings, as well as drones to measure and document construction progress.
Progress on visualisation has also been rapid, with augmented reality being used in some projects. Deeper than this, however, has been the extent to which BIM data is now used to connect all parts of the design, costing and construction phases. Construction modelling has even brought efficiency improvements in delivery management and risk assessments.
Nevertheless, the principle points outlined above remain just as valid in 2026 as the were in 2019.
BIM = value, then and now
Back then, we recommended that customers select a product and system supplier who is well versed in, and had support, for BIM, as it is a key factor for installations and functions to turn out and work as intended. If the building process is optimised, this is also money saved!
Today, most partners in the building industry are knowledgeable and experienced in BIM, while others are beginning their journey into its use. Whether a project team is experienced and working with leading software or just starting to explore BIM, having access to the right drawings and data files at the right time remains one of the most effective ways to save time and create accurate models.
How to use BIM with Swegon today?
At this point in the original blog post, customers were encouraged to get familiar with our ESBO energy and power demand calculation software. This software is still in use today, naturally updated several times, and remains highly appreciated throughout the industry. However, development has certainly not stood still.
Since then, we have developed the BIM files for our products, created two dedicated libraries, introduced plugins for AutoCAD and Revit users, and enabled BIM file exports from all our selection software. Today, we also recommend visiting our guide to Swegon BIM.
Looking ahead, developments will continue. The beginning of 2026 will bring a number of new releases and great steps in how designers can work within BIM and energy modelling. Stay tuned for upcoming updates and future BIM-related blog posts.
