Construction Magazine July 2017 | Page 21

ENGAGING STAKEHOLDERS THROUGH TECHNOLOGY
platforms at the side of the hill .” By looking at different modelling tools and techniques to develop solutions in consultation with landscape ecologists and river modellers , AECOM was able to provide key resolutions .
Client engagement Through utilising new technologies , collaboration and client engagement has increased , enabling a reduction in amendments and client change down the line . Technologies such as VR has enabled clients to look at road and building schemes visually and ultimately be in those spaces . “ You really get that sense of engagement with the public , stakeholders or at consultation events ,” adds Scobie . “ People can get much more of a sense of what the scheme is going to look like than the traditional engineering drawings of 20 years ago .”
Building upwards , not outwards With increased pressure for space in cities , land prices have skyrocketed , with developers wanting to obtain the best value from their investments . However , building in a developed space is fraught with challenges , where any potential issue could see costs steadily inflate . Existing buildings are also expensive to redevelop predominately as a result of location , besides new builds , where the ability to access construction and infrastructure works remains a key factor .
“ Historically , for example , you wouldn ’ t have built over a station , which is now happening more ,” explains Scobie . “ Stations are being redeveloped above ground , as well as below ground . It ’ s trying to create spaces and create infrastructure to enable you to do things
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