Property done Properly: A Reflection on Digital Construction in 2023

Introduction:

The digital transformation in the construction industry reached new heights in 2023, with headlines dominated by key themes such as standards, the golden thread, digital twins, and the significant role of AI and ChatGPT. As we navigate through the top Building Information Modeling (BIM) stories of the year, it becomes evident that the industry is at a crucial juncture, embracing technological advancements and redefining traditional practices.

Two Standards Dilemma:

Paul Shillcock, managing director of Operam and author of ISO 19650-2, raised an essential question about the structure of the ISO 19650 series. He pondered whether having two standards for one information management process inadvertently reinforced silos within the industry. Shillcock's reflection invites us to consider the potential benefits of combining standards to create a seamless end-to-end information management process that could be universally adopted.

Top Five Digital Construction Trends:

The landscape of digital construction in 2023 was shaped by five significant trends: AI and ethics, automation, environmental, social and governance considerations, hybrid communication, and digital minimalism. As we reflect on these trends, it's crucial to assess how they have impacted individual operations and the industry as a whole.

Clarion Housing Association's Golden Thread Approach:

Jack White, Technical Manager at Clarion Housing Association, shared insights into their approach to the golden thread. With the development of a new asset management system in collaboration with Bentley Systems, Clarion aims to manage their extensive portfolio of 125,000 homes efficiently. This involves creating a more in-depth database, incorporating documents with metadata, and integrating a 3D model for comprehensive asset management.

Singapore's National Digital Twin:

The digital twin challenge took a unique turn with the Singapore Land Authority's endeavour to create the world's first digital twin of a country. Bentley Systems' Mark Coates and Andrew Foster reflected on the genesis and capabilities of this groundbreaking project, emphasizing its detailed 3D representation used for asset management and decision-making.

The 'Why' of ISO 19650:

John Ford, Head of Digital Delivery at Galliford Try, delved into the challenge of losing sight of the 'why' behind ISO 19650. Ford proposed a rekindling of industry-driven approaches, urging industry leaders to collaborate with the government to realign trajectories. Addressing the unresolved 'why' challenge is crucial for the full adoption of an ISO 19650 approach, particularly in the public sector.

End of Word and Excel in Construction:

In 2023, Morta CEO Mo Shana’s sparked a broader industry debate by questioning the sustainability of relying on Word and Excel in construction. Shana’s advocated for no-code solutions, citing the increasing need for data connectivity, process tracking, and clear audit trails in light of evolving legislation for building safety and sustainability.

Pushing Boundaries with Parametric Design:

Parametric design holds the potential to revolutionize engineering, offering optimized, greener, and aesthetically pleasing structures. Despite its benefits, widespread adoption within the construction and engineering industries remains a challenge. Jamie Howarth, Trimble's Business Development Manager, explored the automation benefits of adopting parametric design, emphasizing the productivity and efficiency improvements it can bring.

ChatGPT and the Evolution of Interaction:

At the start of the year, the world was captivated by ChatGPT, the AI-driven natural language processor. Murillo Piazzi, BIM Academy digital consultant, shared his experiments with ChatGPT and highlighted its potential to transform the way we interact with information. Piazzi drew parallels with the golem, emphasizing the need for politeness when engaging with AI, acknowledging its role as a valuable assistant with both opportunities and potential caveats.

Conclusion:

As we bid farewell to 2023, the digital construction landscape stands transformed. The challenges and reflections of the year prompt us to consider a future where collaboration, innovation, and a holistic approach to information management redefine the industry's standards and practices. Property done properly indeed requires embracing the digital evolution that continues to shape the construction sector.

Call to Action

Are you an investor or developer with a commercial real estate or infrastructure project? It's time to explore the game-changing potential of our information management process. This takes the project sponsor from inception to successful operations by looking in detail at the end game at the very beginning using an adapted RIBA plan of work.

Get in contact by emailing ian.rogers@aceprojectsolutions.com

Author

Ian J. Rogers

With a track record of delivering successful projects, I offer consultancy services that drive a project’s success. I also can provide training, coaching and mentoring.

I am your experienced guide (sherpa) helping you navigate the complex world of information management and project processes and I will provide solutions that improve your project, increase profitability, and minimize risk.

I have worked with or on medium to large projects as a Quantity Surveyor, Project Manager and Facilities Manager.  I also have experience of structured finance. So I can truly look at the whole life cycle of a project.

My consultancy services, offered in-person, remotely, and in a hybrid format, are founded on aligning projects for success.

Don't just take my word for it - my clients speak to my expertise and approach.

Accreditations

BSc Quantity Surveying

Member of the Royal institution of Chartered Surveyors

Member of the Institute of Workplace and Facilities Management

Member of the International Facility Management Association