A DARLINGTON firm of architects has launched a new venture to advise others on a new technology that is revolutionising the industry.

Architects Simon Crowe and Johnathan Munkley of Niven Architects have established themselves as leaders in the field of BIM – Building Information Management – and have launched BIM Strategy Ltd, to inform private and public sector professionals about the technology to help them avoid pitfalls.

BIM uses state-of-the-art computer software to provide a single set of three dimensional plans for building projects of all sizes. It is pioneering in its approach to design and project procurement.

It offers one electronic point of reference containing vital information for the many consultants and contractors working on a scheme, ranging from wall sockets to wiring ducts, drainage, materials and dimensions.

The BIM model sits in the online Cloud network, replacing conventional plans and computer aided design.

Mr Munkley said: “It has taken us a significant period of time and investment to get to this point and we have learnt an enormous amount about what does and does not work. BIM is the future and the Government is demanding compliancy by 2016 in all public sector projects.”

The new service is expected to attract interest from construction consultants, contractors, developers, local authorities, educational establishments and product suppliers.

Visit bimstrategyltd.co.uk.