Aston MBA students choosing cyber security as a pathway will gain critical, real-world insights by using BIT Group management as a working case study. Aston University has teamed up with a South West-based IT company through a knowledge transfer partnership (KTP) to transform the business into a world-leading cyber security
ScaffPlan, the Australian startup that is revolutionising the scaffolding industry with innovativesoftware solutions, has secured a spot in Cemex Ventures’ annual list of the most promisingConstruction Technology startups globally. The prestigious list reflects a rich tapestry ofdiversity, encompassing various geographies, technologies, and maturity of the start ups included. ScaffPlan’s inclusion
3D modelling will enable the creation of more stable and efficient networks Amrax, a 3D modelling and spatial data capture company, has announced a strategic partnership with network planning solution provider Ranplan Wireless. The collaboration will enable designers to use 3D modelling to create ultra efficient wireless networks. Through Amrax’s
WORKFORCE management and access control solutions provider, MSite has announced a major update to its purpose-built online induction platform to improve everyone’s journey ahead of stepping foot on construction sites. By adding automatic content translation into more than 30 languages, some of the industry’s greatest challenges – including safety, compliance
Siemens Smart Infrastructure is launching a new version of ‘Fire Manager’, its dedicated web-based SaaS (Software as a Service) fire app that offers service providers and fire safety managers the capability to have all fire safety sites in one view. The status of buildings can be easily monitored, with more
Acis Group and MRI Software have won a prestigious award in the ‘Most Innovative Property Service’ category at the National Housing Maintenance Federation (NHMF) Awards 2024 held on January 23. The annual conference is devoted to housing maintenance and is run by asset management professionals. Acis Group, is a prominent
All construction projects are highly detailed and complex processes, from the design and planning stage, through to the build and project close, but there are multiple people involved at every stage. With so many tasks to be completed to ensure the project is delivered on time and on budget, there
Zutec, leading construction and quality management software provider, today announces a partnership with the developer, Litchford and its Housebuilder brand, Heatherbrook Homes. The luxury housebuilder has selected Zutec’s Quality Management solutions to digitise manual processes in support of its strategy to prioritise excellence. Established more than 20 years ago, Litchford
New building regulations with requirements for effective digital information management for compliance, will be a driver for tech buying decisions this year. 2024 is the year when the Building Safety Act (BSA) will come into full force, following the first provisions rolled out in 2022 and 2023. The BSA mandates
SFG20, the industry standard for building maintenance, has launched a new software solution designed to address the ‘once in a generation’ challenges facing the facilities management industry. Facilities-iQ, a completely new ‘smart’ software solution has been designed to aid regulatory compliance, improve auditing, and facilitate better collaboration between building owners,
Aston MBA students choosing cyber security as a pathway will gain critical, real-world insights by using BIT Group management as a working case study. Aston University has teamed up with a South West-based IT company through a knowledge transfer partnership (KTP) to transform the business into a world-leading cyber security education, training and technology solutions provider, with a focus on managing outsourced cyber security services for its customers. BIT Group is a multi-award-winning information technology company offering high-quality IT, cyber and information security services and digital apprenticeships. A KTP is a three-way collaboration between a business, an academic partner and a highly qualified researcher, known as a KTP associate. The UK-wide programme helps businesses to improve their competitiveness and productivity through the better use of knowledge, technology and skills. Aston University is a sector leading KTP provider, with 80% of its completed projects being graded as very good or outstanding by Innovate UK, the national body. The KTP will develop new income streams by enhancing and growing the range of cyber security services, training and apprenticeships and technology platforms offered through its Security Operation Centre. This involves adapting and streamlining how BIT Group operates, and embedding skills so the company’s growth and future profitability can be sustained. The project is led by Professor Vladlena Benson, an industry-recognised expert in cybersecurity risk management and director of Aston University’s Cyber Security Innovation (CSI) Research Centre, who is a member of the UK’s Cyber Security Council. She is joined by Dr Anitha Chinnaswamy, deputy director of the CSI Centre and a senior lecturer in cyber security management, who has delivered multiple research and consultancy projects aimed at supporting the cybersecurity sector. For Aston University, the industry partnership will enhance academic knowledge of cyber security management by adding depth and applied learning. In addition, Aston University MBA students, who have selected cyber security as a pathway, will have access to the BIT Group management KTP as a working case study, gaining critical, real-world insights into cyber security that will enrich their learning experience and prepare them for their future careers. Michael Dieroff, CEO of BIT Group, said: “As CEO of BIT Group, I am immensely proud of our partnership with Aston University through the knowledge transfer partnership. “This collaboration not only enriches our company with cutting-edge business insights but also marks a significant milestone in our journey towards industry leadership. “By integrating Aston University’s advanced research capabilities and our innovative spirit, we are setting new standards in cyber security solutions and redefining our market approach. “This partnership is a testament to our commitment to excellence and our dedication to delivering unparalleled value to our clients and stakeholders.” Dr Anitha Chinnaswamy, deputy director of the Cyber Security Innovation Research Centre at Aston University, said: “This management KTP allows us to leverage Aston University’s critical mass of expertise in cyber security management from our industry-aligned research and consultancy to enhance BIT Group’s services, business delivery model and go-to-market strategies.” Kumara Swamy, KTP associate and Aston MBA alumnus, said: “Having worked across a range of large businesses, and recently completed an Aston University MBA, this management KTP gives me the freedom to apply my skills, industry knowledge and creativity to develop and deliver solutions that will drive transformation in a small business.” You can find out more about the KTP here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
ScaffPlan, the Australian startup that is revolutionising the scaffolding industry with innovativesoftware solutions, has secured a spot in Cemex Ventures’ annual list of the most promisingConstruction Technology startups globally. The prestigious list reflects a rich tapestry ofdiversity, encompassing various geographies, technologies, and maturity of the start ups included. ScaffPlan’s inclusion in the list is a significant affirmation of the company’s pioneering role inthe Contech sector. It highlights the company’s position as a critical player in the broaderstartup ecosystem, proudly representing Australian and regional innovation. The recognition received from Cemex Ventures is a major milestone for ScaffPlan, indicating thatthe company’s efforts to revolutionise the scaffolding industry are paying off. This validationserves as a powerful motivator, inspiring ScaffPlan to keep pushing the boundaries, drivingpositive change, and advancing the progress and technology of the temporary works sector. Commenting on the recognition, ScaffPlan’s founder Simon Boyes states, “To be listed as one of thetwo Australian companies on Cemex Ventures’ Top 50 Contech Startups 2024 is a source of immensepride for us. This acknowledgment validates our achievements and underscores the impact ofinnovation within the construction sector. It inspires us to drive positive change, and activelycontribute to advancing progress and technology in the scaffolding industry.” ScaffPlan’s innovative solutions are revolutionising the scaffolding industry, enablingconstruction companies to complete projects faster, safer, and more efficiently than ever before.As the construction industry continues to evolve,ScaffPlan is leading the way. As ScaffPlan and other Contech startups continue to develop innovative solutions that transform theconstruction industry, the industry will become more efficient, safer, and environmentallyfriendly. The future is bright, and ScaffPlan is leading the way. To view the report Top 50 Contech Startups 2024 | Cemex Ventures
3D modelling will enable the creation of more stable and efficient networks Amrax, a 3D modelling and spatial data capture company, has announced a strategic partnership with network planning solution provider Ranplan Wireless. The collaboration will enable designers to use 3D modelling to create ultra efficient wireless networks. Through Amrax’s Metaroon, Ranplan’s customers can visualise, experiment with and optimise the design of networks to ensure seamless connectivity and operational efficiency. Metaroom enables users to 3D scan environments to create 3D models of rooms, floors, or entire buildings. Over 7,300 users, including key players in the lighting, wireless planning and AEC industries, have registered through the Metaroom app and joined the Amrax B2B ecosystem dedicated to spatial design and 3D modelling. Notable new additions to the customer base include Siemens, Tulux, LTS and Voglauer. Key benefits of the collaboration between Ranplan and Amrax include: Time Efficiency:Metaroom eliminates the need for tedious drawings and CAD imports, ensuring a streamlined process and saving valuable time in the critical planning phase. Future of 3D Modelling:Representing the future of modelling the physical environment, Metaroom® sets a new benchmark for the industry by offering fast and precise 3D scanning. Seamless Data Transfer:The integration ensures a seamless data transfer between Metaroom® and Ranplan Wireless, enhancing the overall user experience and operational efficiency. Martin Huber, CEO of Amrax, said: “This strategic partnership with Ranplan Wireless marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of wireless network planning. By integrating Metaroom’s cutting-edge 3D scanning capabilities, we are not just streamlining workflows but setting new industry standards. Our technology eliminates inefficiencies and opens up new possibilities for businesses and telecom operators alike.” Per Lindberg, CEO Ranplan, said: “The alliance between Ranplan Wireless and Amrax transcends a mere partnership; it’s a fusion of technological expertise. Our collaboration is designed to empower businesses, telecom operators, and enterprises with state-of-the-art wireless network solutions. We’re paving the way for enhanced network reliability, scalability, and sustainability, ensuring that businesses remain connected in our rapidly evolving digital landscape.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
WORKFORCE management and access control solutions provider, MSite has announced a major update to its purpose-built online induction platform to improve everyone’s journey ahead of stepping foot on construction sites. By adding automatic content translation into more than 30 languages, some of the industry’s greatest challenges – including safety, compliance and efficiency – are being combatted. Already used by leading contractors including Morgan Sindall and Lendlease, the purpose of the online induction platform is to ensure individual compliance with the requirements set by each contractor, incorporating induction material based on construction site, job role and company specific information. The latest update rolled out by MSite makes the induction platform more user friendly for both site managers and workers by enabling the integration of existing onboarding content and automatic translation – catering to the linguistic diversity of the modern UK construction workforce. While hugely improving the off-site worker journey, platform users include anyone who wishes to gain access to a construction site – such as supervisors, administrative teams, corporate personnel and visitors. Simon Meyer, digital strategy director at MSite, said: “It’s in our DNA to develop technology solutions that are easy to implement and offer a multitude of benefits. Our inspiration is twofold; tackling the main pain points experienced by businesses across the industry and bridging the gap between management and workforce. “We have used the workforce data we have available and relationships with some of the construction industry’s biggest players to identify where inductions can be simplified and clearer for the multicultural UK labour force. The constant monitoring and reviewing of workforce diversity and journeys is a core part of our business, so this update is to improve understanding, efficiency and safety for all.” Providing comprehensive safety training and awareness programmes, online inductions can enhance the understanding of safety protocols – reducing the likelihood of accidents which are still commonplace within construction, based on reports from the Health and Safety Executive. The ability to regularly update training modules to reflect the latest safety regulations and best practices also ensures that all workers are always up to date with current standards and regulatory requirements. Automatically recording who has completed training, when it was completed and what the training entailed enables digital record-keeping to simplify compliance auditing and reporting processes. Online inductions are also more time-efficient and resource-friendly as workers can complete inductions at their own pace and convenience, reducing downtime and the need for physical training resources. Stuart Ware, senior customer success manager at MSite for Balfour Beatty and John Sisk & Son, said: “The induction platform is just one solution within our blended workforce management suite, which works seamlessly alongside pre-registration software and site access hardware, providing greater insight that will move the industry forward. As with all our solutions, the induction platform intends to offer greater consistency and heightened standards, benefitting both workers and management alike. We’re very excited by the latest update to an already popular platform and look forward to the feedback from customers.” Part of the Infobric Group, MSite has operated in the construction industry for more than 20 years with values based on embracing challenge, achieving together and doing the right thing. With an end-to-end workforce management solution ranging from pre-site registration and inductions through to access control, site briefings and workforce management, MSite is trusted by leading names such as Balfour Beatty, Morgan Sindall, Sisk and BAM across all construction levels and sectors including commercial, housebuilding, infrastructure, refit and utilities. For more information about MSite, visit www.msite.com. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Siemens Smart Infrastructure is launching a new version of ‘Fire Manager’, its dedicated web-based SaaS (Software as a Service) fire app that offers service providers and fire safety managers the capability to have all fire safety sites in one view. The status of buildings can be easily monitored, with more information available by clicking on a site of interest via a fully encrypted connection that ensures the safety of the data. The move is part of the ongoing development of Siemens Building X, a digital building platform that supports customers in digitalising, managing, and optimising their building operations (Energy, HVAC, Security and Safety). It enables remote monitoring and intervention, real-time notification, and efficient and predictive maintenance. Fire Manager offers a range of benefits, including a status overview of a site/sites, both live and historical events, customisable notification via SMS and/or email, and data that assists with maintenance and planning. Included in the data that Fire Manager provides from a fire safety system is the potential for disturbance free testing (DFT), which allows detectors to be tested automatically, with the results recorded in the portal. Alongside Fire Manager, which automatically transmits notifications of the fire system status to service providers, notifications can also be sent to their customers by Fire Connect, a native iOS and Android app. Fire Manager and Fire Connect work easily with Siemens fire safety solutions such as Cerberus PRO, the company’s comprehensive EN54-13 approved fire alarm system. For those that want to maintain their own dashboards, Fire API provides the opportunity to integrate the data into their own dashboards. All three offerings – Fire Manager, Fire Connect and Fire API – are part of a new licensing model which paves the way for increased customer flexibility by offering choice regarding which data and app bundle best suits a specific need. The Fire Apps and API are designed to digitalise the customer workflow for fire safety operation and maintenance. This saves time and resources while improving safety and minimising the disturbance of building users. It enables service providers to monitor all sites at any time remotely and connect directly to the fire panel. This transparency allows for maintenance activities to be planned, carried out and documented efficiently. The enhanced solutions not only drive digital transformation, but also yield sustainability benefits. By offering maintenance options and a fire system status remotely, it is possible to save CO2 emissions related to yearly site visits. For further information on Siemens Fire Products www.siemens.co.uk/cerberus Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Acis Group and MRI Software have won a prestigious award in the ‘Most Innovative Property Service’ category at the National Housing Maintenance Federation (NHMF) Awards 2024 held on January 23. The annual conference is devoted to housing maintenance and is run by asset management professionals. Acis Group, is a prominent housing, education, and skills provider operating in Lincolnshire, South Yorkshire, Nottinghamshire, and Derbyshire. The award recognises the success of its collaborative partnership with MRI Software, a provider of real estate software solutions, and the impact it has had on the repair and maintenance sector. The partnership named ‘Operative Autonomy,’ has redefined the approach to in-house engineers’ responses to repairs and maintenance tasks, achieving remarkable results in a mere 12-month period. This initiative has transformed operational efficiency and made a positive impact on customer satisfaction. “This award truly celebrates the spirit of innovation and collaboration that defines our partnership with MRI Software,” remarked Greg Bacon, Chief Executive of Acis. “Together, we have embarked on a journey to revolutionise repairs and maintenance, empowering our in-house engineers to proactively address challenges and deliver exceptional outcomes for our customers. Congratulations to everyone involved on this well-deserved recognition.” The success of the partnership is evident in the improvement in customer satisfaction metrics. Since the introduction of ‘Operative Autonomy’, Acis has witnessed a significant reduction in missed appointment compensations and achieved an impressive 95% overall job satisfaction rate. Real-time feedback from customers is collected through monthly surveys via text and shows the positive impact of the partnership on enhancing their customer experience. “We are thrilled to have partnered with Acis in driving innovation and excellence in property maintenance,” said Lorna Given, Director of Product Management at MRI Software. “The ‘Operative Autonomy’ initiative has not only streamlined operations but has also demonstrated our collective commitment to delivering exceptional services and driving positive change in property management. This award is a testament to the dedication and hard work of both teams.” For more information about Acis Group and how we support our customers visit www.acisgroup.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
All construction projects are highly detailed and complex processes, from the design and planning stage, through to the build and project close, but there are multiple people involved at every stage. With so many tasks to be completed to ensure the project is delivered on time and on budget, there is also the potential for errors to be made. From delays and confusion in communication between the office and the construction site to materials arriving late to a shortage of labour, there’s a myriad of problems that could arise. So how can these issues be dealt with effectively? To avoid these potentially catastrophic issues happening, an increasing number of organisations are using real-time data to streamline projects and get ahead of their competitors. A recent Gartner survey discovered that 62% of the 1,200 companies it contacted reported greater efficiency after implementing real-time data systems, while a staggering 80% experienced a revenue uplift. This study would suggest, from the companies surveyed, real-time data assisted in providing these businesses with both financial and operational benefits. Going Digital is Opening Doors in Construction The acceleration in digital technology means that communication breakdown between offices and construction sites is a thing of the past. Instead of information being relayed over the phone or email which can cause delays and lost information, resulting in costly delays to projects and disgruntled customers. Information can now be uploaded via smartphone, tablet, or other devices using cloud-based construction ERP software and other real-time data and collaboration tools. For example, Rhodar, a provider of asbestos removal, demolition and land remediation services found that prior to using ERP software: “Issuing an asbestos survey report to a customer used to take up to a week. This task can now be achieved in a much shorter time frame – the surveyor completes a form at the customer’s house on a mobile device and the survey data is automatically uploaded into a report format at the office, ready to issue to the customer.” Control of every construction project at every milestone Construction software uses enhanced features to make projects easier to manage than ever before. That is no mean feat when each construction project involves so many people, from general contractors, subcontractors, architects, engineers, and consultants, to clients, and other outside agencies who must all be aligned. Real-time data reporting is a proven method for improving productivity on-site. The benefits include: Because Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and other fully integrated construction software operates via the cloud, it allows people to access real-time data and information wherever they are. Whether they are present on the job site, in the office, or visiting a customer, the data they need is instantly available at their fingertips. As a result, project workers can avoid multiple phone calls and piles of printed job sheets so that nobody is left waiting and decisions can be made on the spot. Smarter Decision Making Thanks to Data The data gathered from construction software can also be used to enhance the delivery of real-time information so that organisations work smarter on future projects. Managers can learn what systems work best for them to streamline processes over time and therefore limit costs and time. Where construction software was once considered a niche collaboration tool, it has now become a necessity in the industry., with vital data and information shared at the touch of a button. One of the biggest advantages of user-friendly construction software is that it allows users to interact so that data-driven information, insights, and decisions can be exchanged in real-time which leads to further operational efficiencies, and greater productivity levels. What Has Construction ERP Software Achieved So Far? Rhodar needed a central system that could manage every aspect of their company and provide accurate, real-time information to drive decision-making. Using construction management software has united the company’s 500+ employees into a single system, allowing them to complete, document, and process jobs across the US. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Zutec, leading construction and quality management software provider, today announces a partnership with the developer, Litchford and its Housebuilder brand, Heatherbrook Homes. The luxury housebuilder has selected Zutec’s Quality Management solutions to digitise manual processes in support of its strategy to prioritise excellence. Established more than 20 years ago, Litchford has recently launched its top-tier brand, Heatherbrook Homes, spearheaded by the dynamic duo of Eddie O’Connor and Leona Melia. The residential housebuilder has always been focused on offering homes of exceptional quality and distinction in Ireland and they wanted technology in place to differentiate themselves and demonstrate a framework of excellence. “People trust us to come out on top for each and every build and our existing manual processes of using paper forms didn’t give us enough oversight to confidently deliver the level of craftsmanship that is expected of us,” said Eddie O’Connor founder of Litchford. “Human error is the biggest obstacle in our business, and we need to make sure execution is predictable and reliable so we can build a culture of being best-in-class. We selected Zutec for Quality Management, as we want our homeowners to love our houses as much as we do, and this means using a system that ensures quality work is delivered to the highest standards the first time around.” By utilising its complete set of Quality Management tools, Zutec has integrated quality assurance inspections, checklists, and snagging registers to align seamlessly with Litchford’s internal processes. This will enable them to capture photographic evidence and raise any issues throughout the build to drive up higher standards. By adopting Zutec’s Quality Management Dashboard, they now have full visibility of projects and can monitor work and track progress. Zutec’s drawing manager solution also enables teams to upload drawings where they can drop pins to georeference work done. James Cannon, Chief Revenue Officer at Zutec, added: “Now Litchford’s subcontractors will have access to the Zutec Field app, they will be able to easily complete digitised quality inspection forms onsite from their phone or iPad. This involves capturing photographic evidence, signing off work and tying it back to a specific detail in a plot within the development. Before, they didn’t have a system in place to identify or eliminate quality issues as they surfaced. Having all that information in the cloud and workflows in place means that inspections can be tracked and approved or sent back for rework in real time. This both empowers site teams to deliver high-quality standards while giving project managers complete control and confidence over works completed.” To find out more about how Zutec is helping customers deliver quality work the first time around, please visit https://www.zutec.com/product/quality-management/. Alternatively, book a demo and experience Zutec’s QM solutions for yourself: https://www.zutec.com/quality-management-book-a-demo/. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
New building regulations with requirements for effective digital information management for compliance, will be a driver for tech buying decisions this year. 2024 is the year when the Building Safety Act (BSA) will come into full force, following the first provisions rolled out in 2022 and 2023. The BSA mandates digital building information and safety cases, as well as a golden thread of information, for higher-risk buildings (HRBs). Therefore, prioritising information will be high on the industry agenda in 2024, all delivered by technology to ensure effective information management. But the BSA is not the only regulation with a requirement for digital information competency for compliance. Photographic evidence is now mandatory to comply with Part L under Building Regulation 40. And more legislation and standards are set to follow with digital information requirements, such as the Future Homes and Building Standard, where information will be needed to support building design, construction, and management. With the evolution of the construction and property industry, there is no time like the present to get information, processes, and the technology in order to deliver better information and, therefore, building outcomes. This emphasis on digital data and information to better manage buildings throughout their lifecycle — from planning all the way through to operations and maintenance — is not necessarily new concept. However, it is only recently that the focus has shifted across the construction and building management sectors to prioritise its importance, driven by new and updated standards and legislation. That is why BuildData Group, with its brands Zutec, Createmaster and Createmaster Information Management, believe information will be king, and should be given the same attention as the physical asset. Emma Hooper, Head of the Research Institute at the BuildData Group, states: “As an industry we need to shift our thinking about information and data, as it lies at the core of regulation, digital transformation, and the way a built asset is designed, constructed, and operated. Essentially, we need information management to enable us to find, share, understand, use, and query what we do in an easy, digestible, and decisive way, while ensuring quality and trust. It is the linchpin of everything we do across the built environment, and without it we cannot operate effectively. In our minds, information and good information management should be as important as the built asset itself.” So why will information be king in 2024? Keeping people and our environment safe, keeping well-maintained buildings The construction, built environment and digital worlds are constantly evolving. Therefore, ensuring the right stakeholders have the right information at the right time to make decisions, control risk, keep buildings well maintained and people and our environment safe is critical. Information is only useful if it is available, accessible, easily discoverable, and understandable and a golden thread of information is now legal requirement of duty holders and accountable persons of occupied higher-risk buildings under the BSA. This is to ensure that everyone involved in building safety management and maintenance, whether directly or indirectly, has access to key details that can help identify, assess, and mitigate risks. When the right information is delivered at the right time — whether it’s to facilities management, the fire department, or tenants — more informed decisions can be made more quickly. With the right technology platform and stack in place building information can be surfaced, managed, and shared, and kept up to date to meet compliance. Being able to integrate with other systems means all building information can be managed in one place, supporting the journey to a golden thread of information, and making information king. Quality over quantity There is a plethora of information required to meet building regulation compliance. From fire and emergency files to structural information, health and safety files, as well as operations & maintenance manuals and completion certificates – all this information should have a purpose. Without purpose it is useless. This means information must be high quality to the degree that it performs that purpose, is usable and enables the outcomes it is intended for. There are several criteria used to measure information quality, including accuracy, completeness, consistency, timeliness, and validity. All of this is important because it ensures that the information used to make key decisions is reliable. It is therefore critical to ensure information quality throughout the information management process, as without this it can lead to ineffective decision-making, construction and operational errors, and ultimately put lives and our built environment at risk. There is also a direct correlation between information quality and information compliance. Lost, inaccessible or inaccurate information can cause huge issues, and one of the reasons we have building standards and regulations in place. With a consistent structure, schemas, and workflows, as well as standardised forms, templates, and checklists, one platform for information management can ensure that data meets quality standards. And, when construction quality is a huge factor in delivering buildings that meet standards and compliance, then the information quality related to that building should be equally as good. Another reason to make information king. Right data in, is right information out Leading on from good quality information, is the right data going into the information management system or platform. The right information in, results in the right information coming out to drive the decision-making process, while controlling risks and reputation. Many systems today have AI or machine learning functionality to help surface the right information. However, the main obstacle for AI is poor quality data, which directly impacts the reliability of the AI model in place. When in investing in technology, it is also crucial that the data going into a platform is accurate, representative, and of high quality. When information comes from so many sources, the construction and property industry has always struggled to collect documents and data, structure this information and label it correctly, all while maintaining quality. Companies like Createmaster, can help collect, tag, and review the information for quality, and store in one platform (like Zutec), with dashboards to manage that information to ensure data governance and robust and accurate information,
SFG20, the industry standard for building maintenance, has launched a new software solution designed to address the ‘once in a generation’ challenges facing the facilities management industry. Facilities-iQ, a completely new ‘smart’ software solution has been designed to aid regulatory compliance, improve auditing, and facilitate better collaboration between building owners, managers, maintenance teams, contractors, and consultants. The new product has been launched to help users stay on top of ever-changing legislation and regulation whilst also routinely managing maintenance tasks and their financial and technical risks. FM professionals will also find the content available through Facilities-iQ will also support them in striking the right balance between compliance and business criticality. The launch has followed a rigorous development process guided by the findings from FM professionals who shared the unprecedented challenges they’d experienced from a barrage of new legislation. The Fire Safety Act 2021, The Building Safety Act 2022, and the Fire Safety Regulations (England) 2022 are just three examples of how legislation has shifted priorities and responsibilities for everyone involved in the maintenance of built assets. A major benefit of this new smart software solution for FM professionals is that it allows users to tailor SFG20 content to suit the unique needs of their facility, while still benefiting from automated update notifications whenever SFG20 content is updated to align with regulatory landscape changes. This means users can update the library of best practice and compliance information combined with their own unique knowledge of a site and its assets. This will help them accurately target resources, including external contractors, to minimise costs and improve efficiency. Facilities-iQ is the latest innovation in the 30-year journey of SFG20. Kirsty Cogan, Managing Director at SFG20, said: “This launch is very much in tune with this new era of digital facilities management. “We have come a long way from the paper-based schedules created by those pioneering HVCA members whose work was also revolutionary in its day. “Today’s industry can now harness the power of the latest software tools to transform the way they manage their valuable and complex assets. As well as helping them achieve compliance with their increasingly onerous regulatory responsibilities, Facilities-iQ is a great way for FMs to provide evidence of how their work adds value by making our built environment safer, healthier, and more comfortable.” Facilities-iQ will be available on Wednesday 31st January. For more information about Facilities-iQ and how it can manage your building maintenance compliance with its revolutionary features and benefits, please register for SFG20’s pre-launch event on Wednesday 17th January at 12 pm here: https://www.sfg20.co.uk/webinar/facilities-iqCustomers can attend a unique preview on Tuesday 16th January at 12 pm Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
