structible 3D model becomes a living tool that’s constantly evolving with the project. Estimate In the past, estimators worked in their own world that consisted of reams of parts catalogs, vendor contracts, spreadsheets, and walls of filing cabinets with past project files to reference. With the proper tools and resources in place, construction pros can be- gin creating and sharing content-enabled constructible models from the very start. Estimators, for example, can often correlate components on a conceptual model with up-to-date material lists to develop incredibly detailed and accurate estimates quickly. In some cases — especially in MEP — libraries of managed content provide “digital twin” level accuracy that can be accessed even before detailing is completed. Build As the building phase of the construction project commences, it’s vital that project and construction managers work closely to ensure that work on-site aligns with the schedule and budget. This is greatly simplified when additional software solutions designed specifically for various management tasks are seamlessly integrated into the collabora- tion products and other BIM-related solutions used at various phases of the project. With project data gathered in one centralized repository and constantly updated as each additional layer enriches its value, stakeholders across the construction site can easily access the information they need to make reliable, strategic decisions. For example, the initial schedule and estimated labor needed for each phase of the on-site building project will have started with the estimator. Because that data is included with the 3D model and all other deliverables from the BIM planning and design solutions, it has likely been further updated and refined by the project manager and/or construction manager as the job progressed. In addition, project status updates can be communicated through color- coded 3Dmodels rather than Gantt charts, which are difficult to interpret. Likewise, high-fidelity connections also help bridge gaps between office and field. For tasks such as layout and fabrication, construct - ible BIM data is used to directly control field work. Field software for devices like robotic total stations can pull data directly to layout points, without the need for any duplication of effort. The data is already there when it’s needed by a construction manager or superintendent who is responsible for making sure the right people are on-site at the right time on any given day. The same principle ap- plies to the safety manager who needs to ensure the people on-site are properly equipped and following safety protocols; the person or team responsible for payroll and managing the flow of subcontractors; ev - eryone involved in handling materials and supplies; and the list goes on. If and when unexpected issues arise, workers on-site can quickly and easily confer with any stakeholder at any point in the process in for- mal RFIs or through more informal feedback and recommendations. The model can be updated on-the-fly and instantly made available to
everyone involved on an individual element level, making it much easier to convey changes by eliminating the exchange of documents and spreadsheets. This means there are no gaps in communication, no unforeseen consequences and no bottlenecks in the schedule. Operate In the past, the life of the structure after construction wasn’t on the construction professional’s radar. BIM connects this stage to the rest of the construction workflow where no true connection existed before. With the wealth of data that accompanied every phase of the BIM pro- cess, the 3D model and its embedded information can be passed to the owner and facility manager for use in the maintenance and upkeep of the structure. The BIM is a true “digital twin” with components enhanced with de- tailed metadata that can be invaluable to the building’s owner or facil- ity manager under many circumstances, such as routine inspections, energy optimization efforts, planned maintenance repairs and replace- ments, and future upgrades, remodeling or expansion. It is also a hub for IoT data as geometry can be used to visualize actual performance of installed components. Additionally, the model and data can serve as a jumping-off point for the planning phase of new projects. Finally, when the building is sold, this valuable “digital twin” can even serve as a powerful added enticement that enhances resale value. Bringing it All Together Maintaining an open and agnostic space for sharing models and con- struction data is imperative for connected construction. Because no one vendor can be expected to have all the right capabilities, construction teams need a collaboration platform, such as Trimble Connect, as close to universal as possible— and one that can handle a broad range of potential file formats. In addition to maintaining shared storage space, cloud-based platforms also enable applications to directly access, store and edit shared construction data. Because connected data is required throughout the construction life- cycle, smart construction teams are identifying technology partners that share their vision for digital transformation, interoperable systems and open data architectures. By aligning with a strategic technology partner that offers an open, agnostic, available and secure platform, we can connect trades and project phases, and work better together.
MARCEL BROEKMAAT is Director of Product Management at Trimble.
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august 2020
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