Authors Credentials:

• Bhushan Avsatthi: An architect with over 20 years of experience in the AEC industry, Bhushan leads a team of over 200 BIM professionals at HitechDigital. He has a proven track record of successfully delivering more than 1,000 complex projects across various sectors, including hospitals, hotels, malls, and airports. Bhushan’s focus on operational excellence is driven by the integration of technology tools, automation, and lean techniques.

Introduction

Accuracy, quality, usability, and reliability are key factors that keep any MEP project on schedule. Traditional MEP detailing often relies on 2D representations or manual drafts. This creates drafting inconsistencies, errors, and an absence of geometrical awareness. 

MEP detailers face critical challenges, such as errors, miscommunication, rework, and delays with inefficient MEP detailing software. Quick access to content, unified procurement, data sharing, and cross-platform compatibility boost the accuracy and efficiency of MEP detailing software. 

Advanced MEP detailing software within the BIM framework creates intelligent 3D MEP models with embedded data. This supports parametric changes, automated clash detection, shop drawings, and fabrication data. IFC formats facilitate seamless collaboration between teams to reduce project timelines. Whether it’s Revit or AutoCAD, these tools provide trade-specific functions and specifications for assemblies, prefabrication, hangar tools, etc.   

Moreover, the choice of the right software aligns with the project for higher cost savings, greater productivity, and high-quality deliverables. In this article, we elaborate on 7 essential capabilities or features within MEP detailing software to produce reliable deliverables.

7 Must-Have MEP Detailing Software Features for Seamless Construction and Profitability

1.Managed content - Get access to managed libraries within MEP detailing software

Content within MEP detailing software indicates MEP systems and equipment such as ducts, valves, pipes, conduit bends, dampers, and other elements for 3D modeling. Besides spatial layout and connections, other data management includes material pricing and labor units. In the absence of this data, it can lead to inefficient planning, which would then require manual inputs. A database that contains tens of thousands of MEP components requires MEP detailing software that can factor in object changes and last-minute requirements.

To mitigate the costs of utilising inaccurate MEP content, MEP detailers need to consider advanced software that helps fabrication with managed libraries. Using updated data leads to streamlined workflows across multiple project teams.

Capabilities to consider:

• Managed libraries with common file types like RFA, ITM, etc.

• Level of detail: 400+

• Libraries that include connection types, material values, dimensions, and specifications

2.Automation - Automate manual tasks to enhance efficiency

Eliminating manual tasks is a great feature for MEP detailers to reduce workloads and gain greater accuracy. Standalone design software used for detailing tasks like hanger placement, shop drawings, point layouts, etc. are unable to automate repetitive tasks, leading to rework and errors.

To save time and costs, MEP detailers need to look for detailing software that applies specifications to general systems to create fabrication-ready 3D models. Placing objects like walls, assemblies, conduit bends, etc. with automation increases model LOD with instructions for fabrication led by accuracy and speed.

Automation examples include work spooling with fabrication views and schedules, adding layout points for panels, hangars, etc. for layout in the field, file export from modeling software, and publishing BOMs. 

Capabilities to consider:

• Model-driven procurement of materials

• Automatic annotation, detailing and scheduling of the 3D model

• Fabrication and prefabrication output for the shop

• Clarity in field assembly instructions

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3.Project management – Get information and procure materials from a single location

As a model serves as a single point source for submittals, RFIs and change orders. It requires MEP detailing software that has the capability of storing and retrieving information faster. The absence of traditional tools can make the workflow inefficient and saturated. Using MEP detailing software which can transmit the output to multiple participants and applications can accelerate the detailing process.

Getting data and procurement materials from a singular location leads to informed decision-making, construction visualization and resolution, and meaningful interactions within the model. 

Capabilities to consider:

• View 3D models without using BIM software

• Quick access to information like Spools, BOM, or sheets

• Greater visibility into project-tracking data

4.Unified environment – Achieve access to data from a CDE to foster collaboration

MEP detailing software generates valuable data for various project phases and collaborators. Vital information like cost estimates, schedules, BIM files, and email collated within a single software but from disconnected silos results in rework, outdated data, and inaccurate audits. MEP detailing software overcomes this with a Common Data Environment (CDE) which serves as a single reference point to connect participants and applications for greater progress visibility.

Capabilities to consider:

• Every project participant can access, share, and collaborate with documents from a unified location

• Streamline document reviews and approvals, such as RFIs, Submittals, and change orders

• Extract data from centralized BIM models through real-time detailing.

5.Project-wide compatibility – Utilize MEP detailing software with interoperability 

Utilizing various tools leads to disjointed workflows that restrict project data sharing and collaboration. Project-wide incompatibility within MEP detailing software leads to communication losses, ambiguities within aligned goals, and a lack of task or project ownership. MEP detailing software needs to integrate seamlessly with multiple software, show compatibility with hardware and software, and work within the operations strategy for management and shops.

Transitioning from fabrication applications to other platforms or add-ons without compromising workflows leads to better project management, estimates and collaboration. 

Capabilities to consider:

• MEP detailing software capable of working with tools like Revit, AutoCAD MEP, etc.

• Creates a path to generate higher efficiency and makes data readily accessible

• Has the ability to merge with tools like project management, collaboration, and estimation software

Read more:

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Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) will be more complex in skyscrapers than in standard structures. Architects have to ensure that all utilities are adequately distributed to all floors and rooms in the building. Accomplishing this creates its own set of challenges. Pipes will need to be properly insulated to prevent leaks and water damage.

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6.Operations – Lower IT workload

Ownership of hardware and software can impact an organization with greater expenses. The use of multiple applications can lead to greater errors due to lack of training or expertise. Considering MEP detailing software with a subscription model can keep project participants connected from a quick-access platform.

Capabilities to consider:

• MEP detailing software should not require a large IT workforce

• It secures project data

• A single subscription model supports holistic design workflows

7.Interconnected workflows – Realize synergy within processes and teams

Traditional or obsolete MEP detailing cannot flow model data across teams and workflows. A detailer needs to export the data manually, manipulate spreadsheets and send it to other participants. This becomes laborious, which can lead to omissions or errors.

MEP detailing software needs to save actionable data for visualization and interaction. Consider software that works within a stable connected environment and fuels connections for project management, procurement and fabrication. Using a smartphone or tablet, project participants can access data in a Common Data Environment (CDE). 

Capabilities to consider:

• Quick data handoffs from the 3D model with coordination, BOM’s fabrication management, and field layouts

• Unified collaboration for clear fabrication, faster assembly, estimate tracking, and augmented reality

• Quick access to updated information on mobile devices

Sustainability in MEP design and detailing 

Sustainability has been a growing concern within MEP design and detailing. Advanced software promotes analysis and energy modeling wherein it supports engineers in improving system efficiency. Merged with renewable energy sources like geothermal systems and solar panels can be simplified. Detailers can use clash detection to lower rework, reduce waste, and fuel sustainable practices.

Embracing the right MEP detailing software with centralized libraries, BIM automation, quick information sharing, and cross-platform compatibility ensures elevated efficiency, accuracy, and profitability. Data-rich models, streamlined workflows, and collaboration would ensure projects are completed within costs and time. Investing in advanced MEP detailing software isn’t an option but a need to stay competitive.