Building Information Modeling (BIM) has become indispensable in construction today. As projects grow in complexity and scale, firms face a critical decision: should they build an in-house BIM team or outsource to a qualified solution partner? This choice can significantly impact project efficiency, costs, and overall success. Let's explore the options and their implications.

The In-House BIM Team

An in-house team consists of full-time employees dedicated to all BIM-related tasks. This typically includes a BIM Manager, Coordinators, and Modelers working together to manage design, coordination, and model updates internally.

The Blended On-shore Off-shore BIM Team

This approach combines key onshore team members, such as the BIM Manager and some Coordinators, with offshore resources for tasks like modeling and coordination. It offers a balance between local oversight and cost-saving advantages of offshore talent.

Cost Comparison: A Real-World Scenario

Let's examine a hypothetical project requiring a 40-member BIM team, including a BIM Manager, Coordinators, and Modelers for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing disciplines. We'll compare three approaches: in-house, fully offshore outsourced, and blended onshore/offshore.

Beyond the Numbers: Qualitative Considerations

Choosing the right BIM team model depends on individual project requirements, organizational goals, and resource availability. Here’s a guide to when each approach might work best:

considerations for In-House BIM Team

• Highly Complex Projects: Close collaboration, complete control, and seamless communication make in-house teams ideal for intricate or high-stakes projects.

• Strong Company Culture: Organizations prioritizing alignment with internal values and practices benefit from having all team members in-house.

• Long-Term Investment: Building an in-house team is a strategic move for firms aiming to retain knowledge, foster innovation, and grow internal capabilities.

• Client Preferences: Some clients may require or prefer on-site personnel, making in-house teams the logical choice.

Considerations for Outsourcing BIM to a Trusted Partner

Outsourcing BIM scopes, whether through a fully offshore or a blended onshore/offshore model, offers numerous advantages for AEC firms depending on their priorities and project requirements. Here’s when outsourcing is may be the best solution:

• Cost Efficiency: Outsourcing reduces costs for salaries, equipment, and overhead, with offshore resources offering significant savings.

• Scalability and Flexibility: Scale teams up or down quickly to match project needs, ideal for fluctuating workloads or deadlines.

• Access to Global Talent: Gain niche expertise unavailable locally, enhancing quality and speed of delivery.

• Standardized Workflows: Outsourced teams excel at executing well-defined tasks efficiently with minimal oversight.
• Local Oversight with Cost Savings: Combine local decision-making with offshore execution for a balance of control and savings.

By aligning the team model with project complexity, company goals, and client requirements, AEC firms can make informed decisions that maximize efficiency and success.

Making the Right Choice

The decision between in-house and outsourced BIM teams isn't one-size-fits-all. It depends on various factors including project requirements, budget constraints, and long-term company goals. Here are key steps to guide your decision:

1. Assess your current and future BIM needs
2. Evaluate your budget and resource constraints
3. Consider your company's culture and working style
4. Analyze the types of projects you typically handle
5. Weigh the importance of direct control versus cost savings

Remember, the goal is to find a solution that not only reduces costs but also enhances project delivery and aligns with your organization's strategic objectives.

Weighing the pros and cons?

JES is here to help you make the right decision with no obligations. We’ll share relevant case studies, provide insights tailored to your unique needs, and offer a free consultation to help you design the most effective BIM strategy.

Reach out today to explore how JES can support your projects and optimize your BIM approach.