ENGINEERING
70 almost always one-of-a-kind due to the number of contextual variables in play ; transience , which refers to the fact that most construction projects bring together a team of diverse specialists which then go their separate ways upon completion , making continuity and long-term training a challenge ; and decentralisation , which is an internal reflection of the fragmentation across construction projects , meaning most construction companies are “ highly federated ”, with multiple internal siloes .
If construction companies are to realise the kind of sweeping , sustainable digital transformations that will produce long-term value , these pain points
“ Projects vary greatly , so construction companies often struggle to develop tools and methods they can apply repeatedly ”
— McKinsey , Decoding digital transformation in construction
need to be addressed . “ Higher profit margins , reduced cost , time efficiency , better collaboration , and productivity – digital technology does influence the construction industry in a way it never did before ,” concludes the report from Kreo . “ Implementing it is not a choice ; it ’ s slowly becoming a necessity .”
BIM
One of the core technologies driving transformation across the construction industry is Building Information Modeling ( BIM ). Simply put , BIM is an intelligent , model-based process that allows architects , engineers and construction professions to work collaboratively on 3D rendered models of building projects . The fact that the functional and aesthetic components of a design can be present in the same model , with input from professionals and companies fulfilling different functions , goes a long way towards demolishing the siloed methodology that prevents many construction projects from fully utilising digital tools .
SUMMER / AUTUMN 2020