Capgemini will enter into a new partnership agreement with Autodesk, a leader in 3D design, engineering, construction and entertainment software, to deploy ReflectIoD, a new cloud-enabled and secure digital twin platform. The new Building Information Modelling (BIM) platform for building and infrastructure operators integrates natively 1D to 3D, point cloud,
There is no doubt that the adoption of PropTech has grown during 2018. Vicky Green, associate director in Trident’s Leeds office, explains: “Mobile data capture software is instrumental to Trident’s work today. On site, we access data efficiently using hand-held technology which we then upload to reporting software, ensuring that
The Power of BIM & Revit The terms BIM and Revit have been in common usage in the construction industry for several years now and Tricon Foodservice Consultants have been a leading player in bringing about the adoption of BIM in the industry. After years of investment, Tricon are delighted
A series of five, two-day Building Information Modelling training courses has been launched by ceda, developed in conjunction with The BIM Academy and Northumbria University. Initially offered to ceda Members, the uptake has been incredibly positive therefore more course will be organised for both Members and non-members. “As with everything
NBS, the leading provider of technical information, specification and BIM tools, has released a new survey looking into the use of digital technologies across the industry. Available to complete now, the survey aims to understand the current attitudes and adoption of various technologies as well as predicted use and trends
Academics at Birmingham City University have formed a unique collaborative partnership with Corstorphine + Wright Architects aimed at giving students hands-on experience using cutting edge digital building technology as part of their degrees. First year students at the University’s School of the Built Environment have taken part in an industry
A new strategic partnership between UK-based NBS and Digital Node’s Australian business, was announced this week, aligning both businesses across the two countries. Rebecca De Cicco, Managing Director for Digital Node, will act as a consultant for NBS in Australia, raising awareness of current tools and services available for construction
With the UK Government mandating the use of building information modelling (BIM) on government projects since 2016, its perception has transformed from a useful tool into a necessity for delivering construction projects of all types including buildings, bridges and roads. Here, Glyn Shawcross, engineering and design director at engineering
Construction businesses in Scotland can now boost their BIM knowledge without leaving the office, thanks to Construction Scotland Innovation Centre’s free new e-learning platform. Launched as part of CSIC’s renewed BIM in Practice programme, the platform will host six e-learning modules and provide access to multiple resources to help organisations
Like most industries, building and construction is moving with the times. Having long since realised the efficiencies that computers can bring, it is now taking this to the next level with the increasing adoption of Building Information Modelling (BIM). Chris Lloyd, Managing Director of electrical enclosure manufacturer, Spelsberg UK, looks
Capgemini will enter into a new partnership agreement with Autodesk, a leader in 3D design, engineering, construction and entertainment software, to deploy ReflectIoD, a new cloud-enabled and secure digital twin platform. The new Building Information Modelling (BIM) platform for building and infrastructure operators integrates natively 1D to 3D, point cloud, geographical information, and Internet of Things (IOT) data while offering value added services to improve operations and maintenance. This agreement is a step towards meeting the ever growing needs of enterprises for standardized brownfields management along their entire lifecycle. The world’s population is expected to reach 10 billion by 2050, with 75% living in cities. Globalization and urbanization are driving unprecedented demand for new and rehabilitated buildings and infrastructure. Given this context, a BIM single source of truth enabling data centric collaboration across the extended enterprise is a requirement. Capgemini’s services in Digital Engineering and Manufacturing are leading the convergence of the physical and digital worlds to boost its clients’ competitiveness. Its solutions, particularly for the AEC (Architecture, Engineering and Construction) sector, leverage model intelligence, digital workflows and powerful data insights to shape smart factories and assets, comfortable and secure buildings, and data-enabled infrastructure towards an efficient, sustainable and livable future. Backed by Capgemini and Autodesk’s expertise, ReflectIOD will provide operators with consistent services from handover to operations, including design reviews in operations, progressive handover and commissioning, support for real time diagnosis and inspections, IoT alerting to prevent fluctuations, remote assistance and asset revamping. “The essence of a digital twin is data- centric collaborations. Capgemini’s agreement with Autodesk will provide BIM operators with a unique cloud- enabled and secured digital twin platform. This collaboration gathers a unique set of digital transformation skills and technologies,” said Jean-Pierre Petit, Director of Digital Manufacturing at Capgemini. The platform integrates Autodesk Forge APIs and geographical information systems, as well as Capgemini integration services and platforms such as X-IoT for device management, and Andy 3D for remote assistance and asset revamping on hybrid 3D. It can be configured according to industry and project specific requirements and is adaptable to change following agile and incremental implementation. Furthermore, as certified Forge Systems Integrator, Capgemini can support and advance its clients Forge based initiatives.
There is no doubt that the adoption of PropTech has grown during 2018. Vicky Green, associate director in Trident’s Leeds office, explains: “Mobile data capture software is instrumental to Trident’s work today. On site, we access data efficiently using hand-held technology which we then upload to reporting software, ensuring that a consistent structure is followed and the risk of error is substantially reduced. “Our data capture software collects and compares data with predefined element lists and produces tailored outputs to suit reporting requirements, prioritising expenditure over a specified period. Due to the element grades being consistent and predefined, the software allows for more intelligent decisions to be made across portfolios, often resulting in significant cost savings. Data capture software also allows for rapid data analysis and document preparation, resulting in a faster turnaround. “In addition to increasing efficiencies, this means of reporting enables a greater understanding of the issues and the ability to isolate elements, sub elements, grades or priorities. It allows a building owner or manager to group costs by region or across their entire portfolio, creating greater efficiencies and to budget and prioritise expenditure more effectively and to put in place larger scale programmes of work. Furthermore, the ability for companies to analyse the cost of maintenance versus capital expenditure creates greater transparency in budgeting, as well as bringing to light the efficiency of their current maintenance suppliers/contracts.” So where will the technology take us next? Vicky says: “We are also exploring the use of 3D photography, which enables various sets of data to be linked to a 3D format and as such, links planned preventative maintenance (PPM) to BIM. 3D cameras have substantial benefits. Take working at height, for example. Accessing rooflines, fascias and guttering is a perpetual problem for many property maintenance professionals. Scaffolding and cherry-pickers can be prohibitively expensive and even then are sometimes unsuitable. ”Faced with exactly this dilemma, we recently carried out a series of PPM surveys for a client with unusually remote and inaccessible property assets but were able to capture all of the information using drone technology. Drones have the substantial benefit of not only providing an immediate, cost effective solution, but can photograph remote locations with virtually no disruption. “As a result of data provision through images, cloud surveys and more accurate surveying of existing buildings, BIM – once the province of just building designers – is now increasingly links to both PPM and facilities management, causing efficiencies for each. The benefits of BIM are unparalleled, particularly when a substantial survey needs to be undertaken while the building remains occupied. “And as the Internet of Things becomes more widely used it is inevitable that a building’s plant will communicate directly into PPM reporting and scheduling. “In the last year alone we have seen considerable change in the way in which building consultancy can benefit from technology and we anticipate many more positive changes in the years ahead.” Rights of light There is no doubt that a right to light has become of increasing importance. This was exacerbated following the publication of the Government’s revised National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) in July, which states that, “When considering applications for housing, authorities should take a flexible approach in applying policies or guidance relating to daylight and sunlight, where they would otherwise inhibit making efficient use of a site.” It is no coincidence that Trident created a new Rights of Light team in 2018. The team is led by Dan Wade, director in Trident’s London office, who comments, “The need for the new service line follows evolving case law and changes to planning policy (both nationally and locally). The main issue today is building tall in city centres. What does this mean for existing affected neighbours and future developers and investors? How will they all stand together? Cooperation and clear communication are key but that’s just the basics. Rights of light assessments get into the finer detail and are something that Trident now deals with.” So, how is it done? “Technology plays a vital part in measuring impact. The future for this service will incorporate PropTech which makes each job more efficient, more accurate and easier to understand. In fact, modern technology methods such as radiance assessments are ahead of those required in current legislation. “As this technology evolves and increasingly integrates with technology such as BIM, I can see it used to better visualise complex data. Working alongside other service lines, such as architecture and project management, we can identify issues in the design stage to allow architects to incorporate design features to combat these issues. This increases our ability to deliver projects on time and on budget too. The use of technology allows us to react to last minute changes and it can speed up what is a complicated process.” The future of office design Architects and designers are repeatedly tasked with generating innovative office designs to tempt an evolving and increasingly diverse workforce. Kim Benam, associate director in Trident’s London office explains: “Increasingly, we are asked to future-proof offices for a new generation of workers. Both Cat A and Cat B design are evolving to suit new ways of working by maximising flexibility and providing multiple ways of occupying workspaces. And as the debate between open and cellular offices continues, so does the research. Desk modules are rapidly reducing in size with shared storage zones, but designs need to be mindful of a human’s need for personal space and privacy. To combat this, soft zones, private booths and even restorative spaces to support people’s cognitive health are becoming key features of office design. This is balanced with areas for teams to congregate and to generate social interaction. The freedom for workers to roam the office to find the right balance of both social and private time, and even preferred room temperature, is also embraced in current workplace trends.” A multi-disciplinary approach to building consultancy With the recent addition of Architecture and Rights of Light to the Trident offer, the
The Power of BIM & Revit The terms BIM and Revit have been in common usage in the construction industry for several years now and Tricon Foodservice Consultants have been a leading player in bringing about the adoption of BIM in the industry. After years of investment, Tricon are delighted to see that the true power of the methodology is beginning to be realised and the many benefits are starting to be felt. First Things First: BIM is not Revit Although often used interchangeably BIM and Revit are not the same thing; BIM stands for Building Information Modelling and is a process for creating and managing information used in a construction project. It is a methodology to improve efficiency and the way diverse teams work together. Revit is a software tool used by architects, engineers and designers as part of a BIM process. It is actually the product name for the Autodesk software package used to model a building and has been widely adopted by users who have previously used their Autocad suite. So it should be noted that other software products are available on the market. Getting Started Started in the UK in 2011 through the Government’s Construction Strategy policy paper, Tricon have led the foodservice sector from almost zero usage of BIM and Revit to a point where now approximately half of all of their work is completed using BIM. Tricon could see the benefits of using BIM and Revit early on and in 2013 took steps to lead the industry in adopting this technology as Revit was already widely in use in the USA. The substantial investments needed in both software and training meant that take up in the UK was slow and the benefits were not easily seen by all. In fact, the contractors often saw the benefits quicker than some of the Clients. To overcome this Tricon took the bold move to contact all equipment manufacturers and suppliers advising them that they would be using BIM going forward and would expect them all to do likewise. Making the Investment Tricon’s own investment was significant, taking two of their design team out of the day-to-day business to rework one of their projects from a 2D Autocad design into a 3D Revit model. This required a huge initial effort to create a set of standard equipment families as none of these existed at that time. A single item could take a full day’s work simply to create the families and in a process they christened as “Triconising” designs were created so that they were a generic standard rather than specific make and model. This made them much more flexible for future designs and projects. After 6 months of work they ended up with a Revit model for the trial project (see photo v model image below) and now have around 3000 items and families of items that were used both on the project they were remodelling but more importantly on future projects waiting to be designed. Multiple benefits become apparent As BIM became more widely used key benefits began to emerge and contractors began to push the methodology themselves as they recognised that significant time savings could be made during the construction or fit out on projects as well as efficiencies in project management costs. Some of the Contractors have calculated there are approximately 33% less coordination meetings required on site with a BIM project when compared to a non BIM one. 3D modelling techniques also allowed designers to overcome issues such as clash detection which was traditionally a major cause of delays during a site build. Tools such as Revit will inform the designer if and where a clash will occur as different services and layers are added to the project’s design. BIM Levels 0, 1 and 2 Since Tricon first began using BIM they have progressed through the various levels to reach BIM level 2 compliance. BIM level 0 is essentially 2D hand drawings distributed in paper or electronic format where the lead consultant compares each layout to identify any coordination issues, the whole industry moved well past this level with the introduction of AutoCAD; BIM level 1 is where the drawings are produced in an electronic format and can be overlaid to identify coordination issues significantly enhancing collaboration between the various parties involved in the project. BIM Level 2 is where the design is developed as a 3D model and there is a Common Data Environment is in place with naming conventions for information are agreed in common formats so that all information can be shared and interrogated by all parties involved in the design. There are also elements of improved Health & Safety in the design as well as greatly improving the information available for Facilities Managers as every element within the design is documented fully within the model. Everyone working at Tricon has now received Revit and BIM training as do all new starters within their first 6 months. Adapting to the changes is not just a matter of retraining CAD operatives as this is just one aspect of the model. All members of the project team need to understand it and the new terminology that accompanies it. Data Sharing Having completed their project modelling exercise, Tricon shared the information with CESA and manufacturers started to approach Tricon to ask how they were handling BIM on their projects. By sharing their data with the industry, Tricon were able to help speed up the process of adoption and they now estimate 80-90% of manufacturers are on board. Significant Benefits Although it has been a major investment both in time and money, approaching half of Tricon’s work is now under BIM and real benefits are being seen. For example better quality designs are achieved in the same timeframe as clashes are detected quickly; 3D design walkthroughs can be arranged for non technical clients such as chefs who may struggle to fully appreciate a design from a 2D CAD layout. In one recent project,
A series of five, two-day Building Information Modelling training courses has been launched by ceda, developed in conjunction with The BIM Academy and Northumbria University. Initially offered to ceda Members, the uptake has been incredibly positive therefore more course will be organised for both Members and non-members. “As with everything we do, these courses have been developed as a direct result of need from Members. We have spent the last few months devising and developing and we’re thrilled to be able to offer these courses to our Members and the wider industry. The uptake has been fantastic and we will be running further courses,” explained ceda Director General, Adam Mason. Designed for those within the foodservice sector and those involved in design and collaborating on BIM-enabled projects, the course aims to increase their knowledge of BIM processes and software skills. Even though there will be an introduction to BIM, some pre-existing knowledge is assumed. Experience of 2D CAD and/or 3D modelling would be beneficial but is not essential. No prior experience of Revit is necessary. The course will equip delegates with an understanding of the key aspects of Level 2 BIM processes and how these impact on those working in the foodservice industry, and experience and skills using BIM software in the context of the foodservice sector. The current Dates & Locations: 15th and 16th October – Newcastle – FULL 5th and 6th November – Academy Leasing, Warrington – 2 SPACES AVAILABLE 12th and 13th November – Welbilt, Sheffield – 4 SPACES AVAILABLE 22nd and 23rd November – Electrolux, Luton – FULL 6th and 7th December – Bristol – FULL Feedback from the first course in Newcastle has already been received and the majority of delegates rated their understanding of BIM prior to the course as poor, compared with good afterwards. Places are limited to a maximum of 10 delegates per course and will be allocated on a first come, first served basis.
NBS, the leading provider of technical information, specification and BIM tools, has released a new survey looking into the use of digital technologies across the industry. Available to complete now, the survey aims to understand the current attitudes and adoption of various technologies as well as predicted use and trends in the future. “As we develop and lead on our own digital transformation within the industry, we also see the need for different technologies to work together within the same process,” said NBS CEO, Richard Waterhouse. “In the past few years, we’ve highlighted and progressed a number of partnerships with technology vendors such as Autodesk, Graphisoft, and Vectorworks and developed a number of plug-ins to compliment various NBS tools with other leading technology platforms in order for our customers to be able to access and collaborate across different tools, getting the results they need and not limited by technology. “With our customers in mind, we want to be able to see what technologies the industry is using day-to-day, understand the attitudes and adoption process when it comes to new technology and perhaps look at what the industry is currently missing.” The survey looks into how digital technology is changing how you work, business processes, specification writing, using documents and spreadsheets, design tools, models and objects, project extranets and common data environments. Educating yourself with technologiy is important and visiting chad kimball maps is worthwhile. NBS will also be looking for case studies to promote as part of the report. The survey closes at the end of November and those interested can access the form by visiting www.theNBS.com/construction-technology-survey. NBS will make the findings available before the end of the year NBS’ research team recently released NBS’s fourth National Construction Contracts and Law Report and completed a report on behalf of Microsoft and the RIBA, Digital Transformation in Architecture, which explores the benefits and challenges of the innovative technologies that are changing the way architects work. To find out more about NBS visit www.theNBS.com
Academics at Birmingham City University have formed a unique collaborative partnership with Corstorphine + Wright Architects aimed at giving students hands-on experience using cutting edge digital building technology as part of their degrees. First year students at the University’s School of the Built Environment have taken part in an industry sponsored module focussed on Building Information Modelling (BIM) techniques to equip them with industry standard skills. The initiative has seen students given students access to real-world BIM data, given site visits and guest talks to give them a direct insight into digital construction in the professional world. The dedicated project for the module has been Birmingham’s Pershore Street Residential development located at the heart of the city. Additional support given by Corstorphine + Wright Architects and Bouygues UK has seen students apply real-life project data in their studies and examine BIM related information in a practical context. Students were also given advice from experienced professionals in the module team including, James Gaytten; Micahla Decann; Dr. Monica Mateo Garcia and Dr. Alireza Rezaei. Erika A. Pärn, the module leader and Lecturer in Architectural Technology and at Birmingham City University, said: “The integration of BIM in existing curriculum has shown great potential as a method of educating students from a broad range of disciplines the new ways of working collaboratively in an industry confronted by the digital era. “As a previous industry practitioner and an early career academic researcher, I believe in a practice based approach in which a constructivist philosophical underpinning can be adopted. “The constructivist learning theory seeks to explain that learning occurs by constructing understanding. Subsequently students on this module have made sense of their experiences by process of constructing meaning with collaborative work though BIM.” The building plan has been designed to follow the existing pavement edge on both Pershore Street and Dean Street to reinforce the urban grain. Where this is not possible, along the existing retaining wall facing the Wholesale market, the building is set back to create a courtyard terrace that can be developed at a future time. Pershore street development is the first of its kind to provide private rental scheme post-recession and it is envisaged to reduce impact of housing shortages within central Birmingham location. The Pershore development was designed to feature 334 apartments. Mike Turner, Technical Director of Corstorphine + Wright Architects, said “we have developed a good relationship with BCU in the last few years where we are working closely with the University to develop new talent and support the University with a series of guest lectures and site visits linked with large scale construction projects we are working on within the City of Birmingham. “We have shared Revit models of these projects and are providing access to site visits for students via our contacts with the main contractors. Corstorphine + Wright have employed three students from BCU in the last three years and are currently looking to take at least one this year. It is our intention to provide graduate programmes to our new employees which will align closely with the requirements of CIAT to provide a pathway from University to full chartered membership of CIAT.” Students at School of the Built Environment have applied a range of BIM related activities with Pershore street development ranging from: re-designing apartment layouts; providing early cost estimates with BIM; developing clash detections; simulating the construction works with 4D BIM; and embedding BIM lifecycle information. The aim of the module has been to provide an applied and theoretical foundation for students to understand digital technologies, successfully execute the BIM process, facilitate its adoption and achieve interdisciplinary integration on a single project that simulates a residential project. Aldona Weber, a first year Architectural Technology student from Birmingham City University, said: “Leading a team with real-life industry BIM data was challenging and hence very interesting. “As an architectural technologist student, I work within 3D to represent the building design, however, as a team leader who decided to lead by example, I have learnt other dimensions to assist my group when needed. During three months of leading the team, I have seen an improvement in communication skills which inevitably had an impact on our final result of the assignment.”
A new strategic partnership between UK-based NBS and Digital Node’s Australian business, was announced this week, aligning both businesses across the two countries. Rebecca De Cicco, Managing Director for Digital Node, will act as a consultant for NBS in Australia, raising awareness of current tools and services available for construction industry professionals, including the NBS National BIM Library as well as the integrated tools and processes enabling BIM. Having founded Digital Node back in 2013 in the UK, Rebecca and her team have grown the business into a global success story working from offices in Australia and the UK. The team work with clients across multiple continents to help them realise the potential of using BIM processes to suit a particular project. On announcing the partnership, Rebecca said: “I am very happy to support NBS in Australia and strengthen our relationship across continents. I have always had a very close tie to the NBS in the UK and therefore supporting their products, business and people was a priority for me personally and for the business.” The partnership marks another successful step for NBS who set up a subsidiary of the company in Melbourne, Australia back in 2017 and have since launched an update to the NBS National BIM Library and NBS BIM Object Standard to increase the use across the country. Chief Executive of NBS, Richard Waterhouse, said: “Digital Node and Rebecca herself have built a highly respected and authoritative business within the world of BIM in Australia and in the UK. “Collaboration is a term we come across time and time again when we talk about BIM; sharing knowledge and insight and working better together – this is our hope for the partnership.” NBS, who provide technical information, specification and BIM tools, recently launched its first cloud based specification writing platform, NBS Chorus. A collaborative specification platform supporting global design and construction, NBS Chorus is aimed at those professionals who need to produce high quality specifications efficiently. The use of cloud technology ensures that those using the new platform have the latest software and global content at all times, improving collaboration and efficiencies across whole teams and minimising risk. Richard continued: “Some of the biggest issues for our customers when it comes to producing specifications are: unstructured content, barriers to collaboration and lack of connectivity between specifications and the rest of the project. “NBS Chorus allows the whole team to work together as one. It connects the people you need wherever they are, provides the whole team with accurate global standards and classifications and connects this all together in a platform built for BIM on a global scale. “We see NBS Chorus as the future of specification and see true value for anyone who wants to come on this journey with us. NBS Chorus for specification writing and NBS National BIM Library for modelling is a powerful combined solution to help provide efficiencies and reduce risk for project teams around the world.” Head of Partnerships at NBS, Sascia Elliott, said: “Digital Node is at the forefront of promoting the benefits of BIM and together we share the same ambition for BIM technology – it was a natural fit to take this global journey together.” To find out more about NBS Chorus, visit www.theNBS.com/Chorus To find out more about the NBS National BIM Library, visit www.nationalbimlibrary.com/en/ To find out more about NBS visit www.theNBS.com
With the UK Government mandating the use of building information modelling (BIM) on government projects since 2016, its perception has transformed from a useful tool into a necessity for delivering construction projects of all types including buildings, bridges and roads. Here, Glyn Shawcross, engineering and design director at engineering solutions provider Boulting Ltd, explains one of the key regulations essential for becoming BIM-enabled. BIM is a process of creating and managing information and data about a construction project, to produce a building information model that can contain a digital description of every asset. Building upon 3D modelling, BIM also includes the data behind the model. In addition to the benefits of a 3D model such as physical coordination, BIM can bring together data at the required level of detail, making it accessible to all involved parties. A collaborative process, the model’s production is likely to be partly automated and manually improved upon throughout the design and construction process. Growing in detail and accuracy as the project progresses, the final BIM asset is handed over to the client at the end of the project and is used throughout the building’s life span. The cost of operating and maintaining buildings and facilities can reach up to 85 per cent of the building’s total cost. An accurate virtual representation of a building and its asset data can provide scope for finding and realising possible cost-saving areas, even after the construction phase is over. Standards and principles The requirements for BIM Level 2 are set out by PAS1192-2:2013 and its partner, PAS1192-3:2014, which provide guidance to asset managers about the integration, information management, asset management and final construction of the build. Both standards apply to building and infrastructure assets and are based on the previously existing codes of practice, BS 1192:2007 and A2:2016, which encourage collaborative production of architectural, engineering and construction information. PAS1192-2:2013 and PAS1192-3:2014 provide guidance on how information is expressed in the models, as required by level two BIM and above. Expressed information must be logical, visible and available for analysis and use by the project team rather than difficult to extract and practically work with. Good quality models produced by level 2 BIM effectively promote sharing, analysis and reuse of information by providing a better visual representation of design and construction, which can be used to inform decision making. For example, layering software can superimpose multiple models on top of one another to see how they fit together, allowing any clashes to be identified and managed before construction, saving both time and money. Currently, most projects are supported by multiple models, although once BIM level three is reached, each involved party will use the same model, which should be fully accessible from the cloud. Cloud-stored data can raise intellectual property issues, which contributors must be aware of. The regulations also cover practical points to be aware of when choosing BIM as a project management tool. Models must hold the right amount of detail to support their purpose as models burdened with too much or unnecessary information are as unhelpful as those with too little. At the first stage of any BIM project, a BIM execution plan must be drawn up. Amongst other things, it specifies the software that will be used, clash detection responsibilities and crucially, the level of detail required. Ensuring the right level of detail means parties each have all the data required, without unnecessarily raising the overall cost of the BIM process. A BIM model should be progressive and fluid. An important principle set out by the PAS1192-2:2013 is that as a project progresses and information grows, the model will provide information fit for design, for construction and finally to represent what has been constructed. BIM’s use should be continually assessed, as the regulation stresses that models may not necessarily offer the best way to communicate information. If the project is simple, a schedule or other format may provide the same benefit with less expense. Management Because a model is an information source, governance and direction are as important when producing and managing a BIM asset, as when producing a report or compiling technical documentation or drawings. A BIM manager should be appointed, who will be responsible for the implementation of BIM and digital construction procedures throughout the entire project lifecycle. They will drive forward changes, ensuring the client, operator, contractors and suppliers will be able to get the most out of the available technology, people, processes and policies. An experienced BIM manager is essential for smooth running and outstanding results, both in terms of the final build and the BIM asset produced. Boulting has a wealth of experience and expertise, both in implementing and undertaking BIM projects, while ensuring the high standards that clients, engineers and suppliers benefit from. Primary documents such as the employer’s information requirements and the BIM execution plan are crucial to produce an efficient and effective product. In addition to the final model, one of the most important outputs is the accurate record of project information, which is then used to support the built structure during operation. Regardless of whether a current project mandates the use of BIM, ensuring your business is BIM-enabled and the correct regulations are identified and understood is essential in the modern climate. In addition to widening the scope of future work, a full understanding will ensure the best service is provided to each customer, contractor and manufacturer involved in any project.
Construction businesses in Scotland can now boost their BIM knowledge without leaving the office, thanks to Construction Scotland Innovation Centre’s free new e-learning platform. Launched as part of CSIC’s renewed BIM in Practice programme, the platform will host six e-learning modules and provide access to multiple resources to help organisations build an understanding of BIM. The first module – ‘BIM Awareness’ – is available now, with more to be added over the coming months. The BIM in Practice programme of support has been designed to raise awareness of the opportunities Scottish construction companies can realise through BIM Level 2. It demonstrates the benefits that can be achieved through knowledge sharing, collaboration, innovation and best practice – all founding principles of BIM Level 2. The programme is designed to support businesses from their initial awareness of BIM to the continuous development of their BIM journey, offering support at all stages. As well as offering a series of free events, seminars and workshops in Inverness, Aberdeen, Glasgow and Edinburgh, the new BIM in Practice programme includes use of the e-learning platform, the ability to join an online BIM discussion forum to connect with and share ideas with other professionals and access to expertise and project support from CSIC’s business relationship team. Lisa Deane, Skills and Training Manager, Construction Scotland Innovation Centre said: “With support from Scottish Enterprise and in conjunction with a range of industry partners we are delighted to be launching our new e-learning platform, to help individuals and organisations on their journey towards implementing BIM Level 2. The first module is now available and we plan to develop a further five free-to-access e-learning modules over the coming months. “BIM level 2 can deliver cost savings and added value to construction projects in the context of a more collaborative and innovative environment. By sharing design information through a common file format, it enables organisations to work collaboratively on small and large scale construction projects, thereby reducing risks.” To date, over 400 businesses have benefited from the support available through free workshops and a further 200 professionals have joined the online BIM discussion forum. This new e-learning option will allow participants the flexibility to learn from any location and at their own pace. Colin Hastie, CSIC’s BIM Technical Consultant, added: “Here at CSIC, we want to see our sector transform into one that makes better use of digitisation and automation to drive greater profitability, productivity, efficiency and sustainability. We see BIM as a key part of that transformation. It will support the creation of buildings that are fit for the 21st century – greener, more efficient, and with more intelligent infrastructure. I’d encourage any forward-thinking construction business to get in touch and take advantage of this free package of support from CSIC.” To maximise the benefits of this free programme, CSIC strongly recommend that interested businesses sign up to the full series of workshops and support. Full details of the e-learning platform and full BIM in Practice programme can be found at: www.cs-ic.org/BIM All CSIC’s BIM events are carried out in partnership with other organisations. Interested in collaborating? Contact Lisa Deane on 0141 212 5250 or email ldeane@cs-ic.org for more information.
Like most industries, building and construction is moving with the times. Having long since realised the efficiencies that computers can bring, it is now taking this to the next level with the increasing adoption of Building Information Modelling (BIM). Chris Lloyd, Managing Director of electrical enclosure manufacturer, Spelsberg UK, looks at the principles of BIM and its potential to improve construction management. The UK construction sector is worth about £90bn a year (7 percent of GDP) and provides work for over 3 million people. As such it is an important part of the national economy and therefore needs to remain competitive by adopting new management and construction techniques. For 50 years or more, the industry has looked to technology to constantly improve the way it operates, in both the design and construction phases as well as for long term building care and maintenance. Some decades ago, computers were adopted in the management of larger construction projects. Then, more recently, the advent of laptops opened up smaller jobs to the benefit of digitalisation. The internet, smartphones and tablets took things another step further, but, because they let many different people use programmes of their own choosing, a degree of confusion or information overload began to emerge. Spelsberg UK makes a wide range of electrical enclosures and distribution boxes, so is very much involved in the nitty-gritty details of specifying new buildings and supplying new equipment for refurbishments, extensions etc. The company has developed a very broad range of standard products and can also customise enclosures for specific jobs. The majority of standard products from the Spelsberg range is Building Information Modelling (BIM) capable, so that accurate-to-the-second information can be shared with appropriate third parties. The National Building Standards define BIM as: a process for creating and managing information on a construction project across the project lifecycle. One of the key outputs of this process is the Building Information Model, the digital description of every aspect of the built asset. This model draws on information assembled collaboratively and updated at key stages of a project. Creating a digital Building Information Model enables those who interact with the building to optimize their actions, resulting in a greater whole life value for the asset. BIM starts with 3D modelling, typically during the architects’ design phase and is augmented with further information relating to costs and time (initially for the construction schedule, then later for the life of the building). Added to this are product specifications for all the components, from the main structural elements to the smallest fixtures and fittings. Further information can also be added to provide information, on for instance, natural light levels, projected and actual energy usage, occupancy levels, traffic levels through circulation spaces, security equipment and services, exterior landscaping, etc. In fact BIM is intended to be open-ended, so that it can be extended as much as required for each individual building. Ideally it should be maintained until the building’s ultimate demolition. The underlying idea is that at any point during the life of the building, managers can instantly look up any information they need. This could be the manufacturer, supplier and warranty details of the light switch in the third-floor cleaners’ cupboard; equally it could include highly technical performance specifications for the entire plumbing system, load calculations from the structural engineers, or fire and safety systems design. Critically, all parts of a BIM model are interactive, so that if a change is logged all consequent changes are accounted for. This can be by auto-adjustment (for example, when an internal partition wall is moved, making one room larger and its neighbour smaller), or by highlighting the need for a manual update procedure (such as deleting the specification of a broken fitting and replacing it with that of the new replacement). The purpose of BIM is to create a virtual information model to be handed from the design team (surveyors, architects, structural engineers, building services engineers, etc) to the main contractor and subcontractors and then on to the owner/occupier. Each adds their data and information to the model, so that it is fully comprehensive, a source of all relevant information. The overall objective is to provide a tool that drives efficiency into both the construction and life-long management of a building. Spelsberg is contributing to the development of BIM by providing all its product information in a BIM compatible format. Perhaps more importantly it is promoting the adoption of BIM by championing it at every level.
