3D Reality Capture & BIM: The Digital Transformation of Architecture in Quebec and Ontario

What Is BIM and Why Does It Matter?

BIM is a collaborative process that centralizes all data related to a construction project within a single 3D digital model. It enhances design accuracy, streamlines coordination across teams, and improves the long-term management of buildings throughout their lifecycle.

BIM Adoption in Quebec: Key Figures

Recent data confirms that Quebec is embracing BIM at a growing pace:

• A 2023 study by the Ordre des architectes du Québec (OAQ) found that nearly 60% of architects in Quebec use BIM in at least a quarter of their projects.

• Government agencies like the Société québécoise des infrastructures (SQI) aim to make BIM mandatory for all public projects over $5 million CAD by 2026.
  Source – OAQ: Etude socioéconomique 2023

• The Association des architectes en pratique privée du Québec (AAPPQ) reports a 71% increase in average BIM-related investment per firm from 2016 to 2022. In that time, the number of firms not offering BIM services dropped from 80% to just 44%.
  Source – AAPPQ Study 2022

Ontario: A Stronghold for BIM in Urban Centers

Ontario’s architecture and construction sectors are also showing strong momentum in BIM adoption:

• A study by the Building Innovation Research Centre at the University of Toronto revealed that over 80% of AEC professionals in Ontario are either using or planning to adopt BIM.

• Adoption is notably higher in major cities, particularly the Greater Toronto Area, where the concentration of skilled professionals and demand for complex infrastructure are driving implementation.
  Source – ISARC 2019

The Benefits of BIM for Architects

• Stronger Collaboration
  BIM enables real-time coordination between architects, engineers, and contractors, minimizing design conflicts and project delays.

• Greater Efficiency
  Detailed models support better planning, reduce rework, and can lead to significant cost and time savings.

• Lifecycle Management
  BIM ensures building information is accessible and up-to-date, from design to maintenance and eventual demolition.

Challenges to Wider BIM Adoption

Despite its benefits, BIM still faces barriers—particularly for small and medium-sized firms (SMEs):

• Limited access to training

• High implementation costs

• Resistance to changing long-standing workflows

A study by Université Laval points out that these factors especially hinder BIM adoption among Quebec’s prefab building SMEs.
Source – Université Laval Study

Moving Forward: From Challenges to Opportunities

To unlock BIM’s full potential, the industry must prioritize:

• Accessible and ongoing training for professionals

• Financial support for small firms

• Clear standards and guidance for implementation

With the right support, BIM can become a standard—not an exception—in Canadian architecture.

3D reality capture and BIM are reshaping how architecture is practiced in Quebec and Ontario. While challenges remain, the potential for improved collaboration, efficiency, and lifecycle management is undeniable.

Are you an architect in Quebec or Ontario? Discover how 3D reality capture and BIM can elevate your projects—reach out to our team for a customized demo or consultation.