Building Information Modelling (BIM) improves infrastructure quality and boosts the competitiveness of the construction sector, Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Christos Dimas said at the 7th The BIM Conference, co-organised by the Technical Chamber of Greece (TEE).
In his remarks, the minister stressed that “the adoption of BIM (Building Information Modelling) in modern construction is not merely a technological upgrade, but a development that fundamentally transforms the way projects are designed, built and managed”, adding that it is a decisive factor in creating modern, resilient and sustainable infrastructure.
According to a relevant press release, he also noted that developments in Europe in public procurement and the digital transformation of construction indicate that BIM is expected to play an increasingly central role in public works in the years ahead.
The benefits for costs and project management
Referring to the advantages of this methodology, Mr Dimas said its use covers the entire lifecycle of a project, from study and design through to construction, operation and maintenance.
In particular, 3D visualisation enables clashes to be identified early and facilitates decision-making. It also helps improve planning, produce more accurate cost estimates and limit the risk of cost overruns.
In addition, using a shared database fosters collaboration among the parties involved and helps improve safety during construction. During the operational and maintenance phase, the creation of a comprehensive digital record, the so-called “Digital Twin”, enables more effective infrastructure management and lower operating costs over time.
A roadmap with 28 measures
The minister made particular mention of initiatives by the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport to gradually incorporate BIM into public works. These include developing a strategic plan and roadmap for implementing BIM in Greece, with 28 measures to be implemented over five years.
The measures focus on governance, standardisation, skills development, digital tools and market support.
Meanwhile, the ministry’s Integrated Information System for Project and Resource Management, which is due to go live, includes a BIM Viewer subsystem.
Training engineers
Mr Dimas highlighted the need to train and familiarise staff with new digital tools, stressing that the transition to the BIM era requires a deeper shift in the culture of how projects are designed and delivered.
At the end of September, the Technical Chamber of Greece provided relevant training for engineers at the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport. It covered, among other things, topics related to the lifecycle of public contracts.
“The aim is to step up this effort and continue training in specific BIM software, so that the ministry’s staff can also adopt the digital modelling of projects,” he said.
Concluding his remarks, the Minister for Infrastructure and Transport stressed that investing in BIM is no longer simply a technological upgrade, but a strategic necessity that determines the sustainability and competitiveness of businesses in the construction sector.
“It is our responsibility to work to ensure that we are all ready for the next era of construction,” he concluded.