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What would be the main differences in outputs between Revit (BIM) vs OpenStudio (BEM)

I would like to know if comparing these two tools for obtaining energy models would give me an advantage of one over the other. I heard that architects may use Revit because of its link to autoCAD (being both an AUTODESK products). I guess, I would want to see which one is more robust in its analysis. Can these two be compared and if so, what are the advantages of using one or the other -aside from cost, since OpenStudio is free-.

Thanks a bunch!

Julio's avatar
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Julio
asked 2015-11-16 17:33:46 -0500
__AmirRoth__'s avatar
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__AmirRoth__
updated 2015-11-16 20:39:58 -0500
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@jcmart, are you asking about the pros and cons of a BEM model generated from a BIM model (e.g., from Revit) vs. one that is created "directly" (e.g., in OpenStudio)?

__AmirRoth__'s avatar __AmirRoth__ (2015-11-16 20:41:58 -0500) edit
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Hi Amir, yes, that's what I am asking. Thanks for rephrasing my question. I have seen the early modelling process and BIM reports done in Revit. In my opinion they seem less robust than a report for a model done in OpenStudio which I think that's what Santiago just answered this question down in his comment. In the end the comparison is tricky because of how each modelling process happens during the design of a building.

Julio's avatar Julio (2015-11-17 11:35:13 -0500) edit
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Revit Energy analysis is meant for early decision making in conceptual design phase. It is very useful to make fast energy models and envelope parameters sensitivity analysis. Both inputs and outputs are very limited to this early analysis stage. It is current not possible to model custom schedules, loads, HVAC and other advanced features. Opensutdio is detailed energy analysis tool. Highly customizable and very complex. It depends what's your goal. I use both in my modelling process. I do early analysis with mass models and then model detailed geometry in Revit. I then export the gbxml model to Openstudio to continue adding detail in Openstudio (and idfEditor). If you have no experience in Energy Modelling I would suggest starting with Revit and then Openstudio after some flying hours.

Good luck.

Santiago Velez's avatar
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Santiago Velez
answered 2015-11-16 18:09:29 -0500
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Thanks Santiago, your answer explains very well what I wanted to know. I particularly found super helpful your piece of advice about starting in Revit then move onto OS as I am a novice in this field. I kindly appreciated your time spent answering my question.

Julio's avatar Julio (2015-11-17 11:38:36 -0500) edit
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