The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) defines BIM as "the use of a shared digital representation to facilitate the design, construction, and operation processes in order to provide a reliable basis for decision-making." It is a collaborative digital model that contains detailed information on all the components of a space.

This BIM model allows the various stakeholders in a project to work together effectively by sharing a common and up-to-date source of information. Not only does it allow for 3D visualization of a project, but it also contains additional data such as the physical and functional properties of elements, construction schedules, costs, energy performance, and much more.

This approach improves communication, reduces errors and costs, and allows for more efficient management of construction projects.

Virtual reality (VR) is a technology that allows a person to immerse themselves in a simulated and immersive 3D environment. It uses devices such as headsets or special glasses, as well as controllers or gloves, to create a complete sensory experience.

The goal of virtual reality is to make you feel a virtual presence, as if you were actually there in that environment. This creates total immersion and an experience that is more real than life. Its ultra-realistic nature allows for complete projection into the project.

LiDAR, short for "Light Detection and Ranging," is a remote sensing technology that uses laser beams to measure the distance between a laser emitter and surrounding objects. LiDAR enables the creation of 3D digital models of the environment.

Its operation relies on emitting laser pulses towards the surface to be mapped. These laser beams bounce off objects they encounter and return to the LiDAR sensor. By measuring the time it takes for the signal to return, the LiDAR can calculate the distance between the emitter and the objects. By continuously performing these measurements and combining the data, the LiDAR can create an accurate 3D representation of the environment.

Data collected by LiDAR can be used in numerous fields, such as topographic mapping, building modeling, autonomous navigation, natural resource management, archaeology, environmental monitoring, and many others. LiDAR provides detailed information about the geometry and structure of objects, making it a powerful tool for data collection and spatial analysis.

Thanks to its ability to provide accurate 3D models of the environment, LiDAR has become an essential technology for landscape architecture.

BIM is relevant to architects, engineers, companies, project managers, construction professionals, urban planners, and building owners. In general, all stakeholders involved in the design, construction, and management of a project can benefit from using BIM to improve collaboration, communication, and the overall efficiency of the process.

The use of BIM in landscape architecture offers several advantages. First, it allows for better visualization and understanding of the project by creating a 3D digital model that realistically represents the landscape design. This facilitates communication with clients and stakeholders, as they can more easily see and understand the proposals.

BIM in landscape architecture also allows for better coordination and integration between the different elements of the project, such as buildings, natural features, pathways, lighting, etc. This reduces the risk of conflicts and errors during project execution.

Furthermore, BIM allows for the optimization of environmental performance by conducting precise analyses on factors such as natural lighting, stormwater management, biodiversity, etc. This leads to more sustainable and environmentally friendly designs.

Finally, BIM in landscape architecture enables more efficient project management by facilitating planning, cost estimation, resource management, and progress tracking. This can help reduce construction time and costs.

Yes, as an individual, you can use augmented reality to visualize your garden. There are apps and software that allow you to create virtual models of your garden and overlay them onto your real environment using augmented reality. This lets you experiment with different designs, arrange virtual landscaping elements, and see what your garden would look like before you commit to it.

This allows you to make informed decisions and better plan your garden design. Augmented reality offers an immersive experience that can help you visualize and explore different landscaping options.