One of the most useful technologies in figuring out what outcomes are or were possible problems are in the construction of buildings is building modeling. Building modeling can take many forms.

One form is a strictly mathematical model. Suppose for instance that a completed building is thermostatically uncomfortable and stories vary as to why. Mathematical modeling can be done to determine if the building cooling plant has sufficient capacity to cool the building or individual areas. The same model can be given modifications to go from what was originally designed to what was in the construction contract to actually build. The same model can then be modified showing solutions to bring the building into functionality.

Another type of building modeling is a full model of the entire building and its systems. This BIM, “Building Information Modeling”, technology can be used to determine if or how things can be or could have been done. For instance if there is apparently insufficient floor to floor height to install the ceiling height requirements, the structural system and mechanical and plumbing systems then a model can be built to examine the problem. Using a model it can be easily determined if preplanned coordination could have routed the building elements sufficiently within the space provided. The same modeling process could also determine if the goal was impossible.

A third type of modeling is that of examining individual categories in a combined physical and mathematical model. This could be done for acoustic modeling or daylighting. And as above scenarios could be generated to see what went wrong or solutions depending upon the goals of the process.