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Technology moves construction projects off the paper trail

Wed, 15 May 2013 10:19:44 -0400

The construction industry is changing at a pace rarely seen and the Puget Sound region has a front-row seat. Consider the Bertschi School science classroom, which recently received certification as the state’s first Living Building after a year of performance monitoring.

Skanska USA worked with the Restorative Design Collective on the project to develop new ways to source materials to meet the Living Building Challenge’s red list requirements. One of the greatest challenges in this effort was finding local manufacturers and vendors that are transparent about the chemical makeup of products.

Looking forward, clients seeking a more sustainable design will have an easier time identifying ways to do so like never before

On the Stone34 project, aiming to meet Seattle’s Deep Green Pilot Program requirement, that knowledge will be put to work again

To view the rest of this article please click on the following link

http://www.djc.com/news/co/12052516.html

Clients blamed for lack of BIM take-up

Wed, 15 May 2013 10:17:34 -0400

Limited demand from clients is standing in the way of Building Information Modelling being adopted across the construction industry.

A survey by the RICS highlighted clients as the main brake on BIM adoption.

The research showed that all those questioned were using or actively considering adopting BIM.

But half the industry is still at the thinking stage with 46% claiming lack of demand from clients is the main obstacle in the way of actually adopting BIM.

Alan Muse, Director of Built Environment Professional Groups at RICS, said: “As an industry, we should be encouraged by the growing traction that BIM is gaining as the route forward for the built environment, but also be prepared to embrace our responsibilities in overcoming identified barriers and issues.

To view the rest of this article please click on the following link

http://www.constructionenquirer.com/2013/05/03/clients-blamed-for-lack-of-bim-take-up/

Monitoring Infrastructure Construction with Technology

Wed, 15 May 2013 10:15:37 -0400

Infrastructure construction such as highways, bridges, and pipelines, among others, typically reach into isolated locations where temperatures fluctuate constantly and Internet connections are scarce. This, however, doesn’t minimize the need for construction technology on the job. As such, these project owners and construction teams typically need to turn to rugged solutions for monitoring and control of remote infrastructure.

This is the case with the Yiba Highway construction in China. The highway tunnels are subject to temperature fluctuations, humidity, dust, and vibration, but the headquarters still needed a means to monitor and control the highway tunnels. To meet this need, the team implemented a rugged industrial monitoring and control system to connect its headquarters with remote-traffic monitoring locations throughout the tunnel

To view the rest of this article please click on the following link

http://www.constructech.com/news/articles/article.aspx?article_id=9650&SECTION=1

BIM: threat or boon to property investors?

Wed, 15 May 2013 10:11:00 -0400

Darron Barker, head of Lambert Smith Hampton’s Newcastle office, shares his views on building information modelling.

The results of the UK’s most comprehensive BIM (Building Information Modelling) survey yet, undertaken by NBS and published in March, reveal that whilst the industry is now taking a growing interest in BIM over the last year, fewer than half of those surveyed were aware of the different levels of BIM despite Level 2 being mandatory on all government construction projects by the end of 2016.

Launched by government on 31 May 2011, the rationale for implementation of BIM is sound: ‘modernisation with the key objective of reducing capital cost and the carbon burden from the construction and built environment by 20%’.

But what does this mean for those with commercial property portfolios? The impact could be great.

It is widely agreed by those who are already using BIM that it can reduce waste, create greater cost efficiencies and increase coordination of construction documentation

To view the rest of this article please click on the following link

http://bdaily.co.uk/opinion/08-05-2013/bim-threat-or-boon-to-property-investors/

The Power of 3D: Using BIM for Facility Management

Wed, 15 May 2013 10:08:00 -0400

For several years now, building information modeling, known as BIM, has steadily become the preferred method for developing the design of a new building. Instead of producing a series of flat and representational drawings, BIM creates a digital database that represents the building in three dimensions, allowing the design team, building owners, and contractors to virtually “walk” through the facility before it’s built.

One of the early benefits of BIM to building owners was virtual 3D coordination of the work, commonly referred to as “clash detection.” This process allows for both the design and construction teams to combine 3D models to coordinate the design and resolve conflicts prior to construction of the building. This better coordination, in turn, typically leads to fewer requests for information (RFIs) and change orders. But what many facility owners and operators don’t know is the benefits of BIM can extend long after construction is complete

To read the rest of this article please click on the following link

http://www.areadevelopment.com/AssetManagement/Q2-2013/building-information-modeling-facility-management-0272892.shtml

PAS 1192-2:2013 (Specification for information management for the capital/delivery phase of construction projects using building information modelling)

Tue, 07 May 2013 08:40:00 -0400

PAS 1192-2 provides specifi c guidance for the information management requirements associated with projects delivered using BIM. Not all information on a project will be originated, exchanged or managed in a BIM format. This information will also need to be managed in a consistent and structured way to enable effi cient and accurate information exchange. BS 1192:2007 provides details of the standards and processes that should be adopted to deliver these outcomes. Only information exchanges specifi c to BIM are described in this PAS. It is assumed for the purposes of this standard that non-BIM information exchanges between a principal supplier and employer and within the supply chain will be managed using equivalent information management standards. Furthermore, and for the avoidance of doubt, all project information, whether in BIM environments or in conventional data formats should be shared using a single collaborative data environment (CDE).

To view this document please click on the link below and scroll to the end of the page

http://www.cita.ie/technologyworkshop5.asp

The Construction Industry Council (CIC) publishes BIM Protocol

Tue, 02 Apr 2013 09:46:46 -0400

The Construction Industry Council (CIC) has published its much anticipated Building Information Modelling (BIM) Protocol alongside two further BIM documents: Best Practice Guide for Professional Indemnity Insurance when using BIM and, Outline Scope of Services for the role of Information Management.

Building Information Modelling is an innovative and collaborative way of working that is underpinned by digital technologies which unlock more efficient methods of designing, creating and maintaining our built environment. In essence BIM embeds key product and asset data within a series of three dimensional computer models that can be used for effective management of information throughout the project lifecycle - from earliest inception through to occupation. It has been described as a game-changing ICT and cultural process for the construction sector.

The BIM Task Group, which leads the public sector implementation of the Government Construction Strategy mandate that all government construction projects will be undertaken using BIM Level 2 by 2016, has supported the co-ordination and creation of these key BIM documents.

To view this article please click on the following link

http://www.rics.org/uk/knowledge/news-insight/press-releases/the-construction-industry-council-cic-building-information-modelling-bim-protocol-is-published/

Mobile Technology Positively Impacts Manufacturing, Construction

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 12:33:00 -0400

Decision makers are using mobile apps most commonly for keeping contacts organized, keeping task lists and assigning tasks to specific employees.

The vast majority of decision makers at construction, manufacturing and distribution firms believe that mobile technology is positively affecting their productivity, according to a survey by business management software and services specialist Sage North America.

The survey of 249 construction firms indicated they are using mobile devices to access company information while on the job site and to reduce travel and energy costs. Mobile-device usage has increasingly enabled the ability for construction workers to provide instant reporting while at the job site, allows decisions to be made while at the job site, ultimately cutting down on costly and time-consuming errors, the report said

To view this article please click on the following link

http://www.eweek.com/small-business/mobile-technology-positively-impacts-manufacturing-construction/

Survey shows that professionals believe BIM is the future

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 08:46:16 -0400

Over 70% of respondents to a survey on building information modelling (BIM) have declared it the ‘future of project information’.

The annual BIM survey, carried out by built environment product and information provider, National Building Specification (NBS), polled over 1,350 professionals representing a range of business sizes and disciplines from within architecture, surveying and engineering.

The research, which NBS states is the most comprehensive piece of research into BIM to be undertaken in the UK, found that 71% of respondents agreed that BIM represents the future, with 39% saying they are already using it.

To view the rest of this article please click on the following link

http://www.workplacelaw.net/content/46663

Construction Connection Announces Campaign to Promote BIM Jobs, Professionals Across the Construction Industry

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 08:30:40 -0400

Construction Connection will launch a new campaign to promote increasingly important Building Information Modeling (BIM) certified individuals seeking employment and available BIM-related jobs. The construction networking and hiring website is already a leader in the industry as the place for companies and individuals to make connections and find valuable resources; their new campaign seeks to further expand their reach into one of the fastest growing technologies in construction: BIM.

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a term that refers to advanced software that construction professionals use to render detailed three-dimensional drawings of buildings. Contractors can use BIM across an entire project to show a building’s structural, electrical, plumbing and other crucial details. The advanced software also extends beyond the three dimensional rendering to incorporate both time and cost. With these added capabilities, contractors and business owners can produce more sophisticated designs and more accurate estimates and timetables for their clients, which can save everyone time and money. BIM software is also designed to take into account environmental impact, so buildings are more energy-efficient and eco-friendly.

To view this article please click on the following link

http://www.prweb.com/releases/2013/3/prweb10552986.htm

New McGraw-Hill Construction report shows 52% of high-level BIM users report better profits

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 08:26:00 -0400

Building Information Modeling (BIM), a novel approach to design and construction pioneered by early adopters, has gone mainstream for the North American construction industry with adoption expanding from 17 percent in 2007 to 71 percent in 2012.

That’s according to McGraw-Hill Construction’s latest SmartMarket Report, “The Business Value of BIM in North America: Multi-Year Trend Analysis and User Ratings (2007–2012).”

“The results of the survey validate many key trends we are seeing in North America - notably, the strong growth of BIM in construction and adoption amongst owners, architects and engineers,” said Phil Bernstein, vice president, strategic industry relations at Autodesk, a global leader in 3D design software for manufacturing, building, construction and engineering. “The results also point to the increased business benefits that all users derived from using BIM, such as better profits, more accurate documentation, less rework, reduced project duration, fewer claims and the ability to offer new services

To view the rest of this article please click on the following link

http://www.sparpointgroup.com/Detail.aspx?id=5891

DProfiler Launch

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 10:45:00 -0400

Project Programme Management Ltd. in conjunction with Beck Technology is pleased to announce the launch of D-Profiler in the UK and Irish market.

To mark this occasion Project Programme Management is hosting a complimentary two day event on March 14-15th in the Radisson Blu Edwardian Grafton Hotel,130 Tottenham Court Road, London W1T 5AY, for industry professionals to come and explore the benefits D-Profiler can bring to a construction project. Highlights of this conference include our partners Beck Technology presenting case studies and demonstrating how BIM is revolutionizing the North American construction market. There will also be lively interactive discussions throughout the day where all aspects of BIM will be discussed throughout the conference

D-Profiler is a macro based BIM tool for use with early conceptual cost estimation. Early involvement of a tool such as D-Profiler enables the user to prepare detailed cost estimates at a very early stage, and allows the project’s cost control commence on a sound footing. Places are limited so if you wish to attend this event and explore some of these ideas further please email your details to gmaguire@ppm5d.ie.

To view this event live on the day please click on the following link

http://ppm5d.ie/category/streaming-events/

CITA Technology Pilot Team Create Scheme Design

Fri, 08 Mar 2013 05:50:00 -0500

The pilot project has advanced steadily since the first CITA Technology Workshop with on-going progression on the Scheme design, as well as a detailed BIM model of the existing building. At present the model is undergoing an energy assessment, so as to, further help guide the design. In order for this to be realised there is an on-going investigation amongst other things, of the roof panels to establish their likely insulation or component U-value. The team have been using Tekla BIMsight to view the current model which is detailed below

The first phase of the project will ultimately aim to revaluate the current structure and produce a solution for a more functional building. This has been based around the Clients need’s which include better thermal comfort, enhanced artificial lighting, improved acoustics, upgrade to the Crèche, as well as the addition of a shop. Once the Client’s needs have been fully addressed then a more detailed specification of Phase 2 can be put in place. The current layout of the building is illustrated below

To view more details on the pilot please click below

http://www.cita.ie/cita_pilot_project_2013.asp#page

CITA Technology Pilot sets its key objectives

Fri, 08 Mar 2013 05:48:00 -0500

The CITA Pilot Tem have outlined their objectives for the pilot project as follows

Key Objectives

1. Focus on integrating the team and fostering collaborative working/ decision making throughout all stages of the process.

2. Use a variety of ‘BIM’ authoring and interface tools/ technologies plus other ICT to enable/ streamline the efficiency of the process

3. Deliberately shift project focus from design and construction to FM and operation/ whole life cycle.

4. Focus on the removal of Waste (time, material, resources & effort) and only those things that Add Value for the Client & project Team.

5. Focus on the Real Value created with attempt to qualify/ quantity during the process for project team including client & FM.

These objectives will be measured against an agreed set of Key Performance Indicators that have been put in place by the Pilot Team who are detailed below.

Paul Sexton, Civil/ Structural Engineer SCEG LTD (Chair)

Bernard Voortman, Architect/Urban Designer Cummins and Voortman Ltd

Trevor Woods, Quantity Surveyor, Construct IT

Enda Grimes, Contractor, John Paul Construction ltd

Dr Alan V. Hore, Director, CITA LTD

Barry McAuley, CITA/DIT Researcher

Pearse Mc Mahon, Nugent Manufacturing Ltd

Bobby Gallagher, Facilities Manager, Moore DFM

Philip Geoghegan, Urban Design, iCON Architecture & Urban Design

Enda Nolan, Civil Engineer/Land Surveyor Coastway Ltd.

Ross Cahill O’Brien, Architect Cahill-O’Brien Associates Ltd

Colin Reid, Mechanical & Electrical Consultants Johnston Reid & Associates

To view more details on the pilot please click below

http://www.cita.ie/cita_pilot_project_2013.asp#page

CITA Technology Pilot Team Lead the way!

Fri, 08 Mar 2013 05:31:00 -0500

The CITA Pilot Team are leading the way in the Irish Construction Industry in trialing and testing new innovative technologies. The Irish construction sector continues to stagnate but instead of accepting this fact, the Pilot Team have come together to create more rewarding ways of collaboration and investigate enhanced business opportunities. The Pilot Team have all dedicated there time and expertise for free in the hope of showcasing the capabilities of current Technologies that currently exist within the Irish AEC Sector. The Pilot Team is led by Chair Paul Sexton of Sexton Consulting and Chief Architect Bernard Voortman of Cummins & Voortman Ltd who both recently presented the models status at the February Technology Workshop. The first presentation of the pilot project in January which was presented by Coastway Ltd. established through UAV flight the Topographical & SUDS survey. Coastway Ltd. also laser scanned the existing building which is being used as the basis for the pilot model. The February Workshop detailed the on-going progression on the Scheme design, in which will be advanced into a detailed BIM model of the existing building

To view more details on the pilot please click below

http://www.cita.ie/cita_pilot_project_2013.asp#page

BIM Builds Momentum in Foodservice

Fri, 08 Mar 2013 05:15:39 -0500

Despite how costly it can be to implement and master, Building Information Modeling is becoming more and more of a factor in the foodservice design community due to the undeniable portfolio of benefits it offers operators and building managers.

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a powerful design tool with a potent set of benefits that made the foodservice industry sit up and take notice a few short years ago. Despite the undeniable value BIM promises, adoption of this leading-edge technology has been slower in foodservice than in other industries. Certainly, some of this can be attributed to a complex business environment for an industry that faces a variety of financial pressures. Equally complex, though, is getting up to speed on BIM, which involves a commitment of time and money that can intimidate business leaders operating with razor thin margins.

Despite these hurdles, BIM slowly and steadily continues to make inroads into the foodservice industry and a growing number of design-oriented companies are getting on board

To view the rest of this article please click on the link below

http://fesmag.com/features/foodservice-issues/10654-bim-builds-momentum-in-foodservice

NBS national BIM survey 2013

Fri, 08 Mar 2013 05:02:08 -0500

Following the 2011 and 2012reports, here is the third set of research findings into BIM and the UK construction industry. The research was carried out in late 2012 and early 2013. This has resulted in the largest number of survey responses yet; with over 1,350 responses this year compared to around 1,000 in 2011 and 500 in 2010. This level of response reflects the importance of BIM to the industry. It also shows the need for dispassionate reporting of what’s really going on.

To view this report then please click on the following link and scroll to the end of the page

http://www.cita.ie/technologyworkshop3.asp

What's going on in the world of BIM: NBS national BIM survey

Fri, 08 Mar 2013 04:48:00 -0500

Building Information Modelling has been one of the most talked about topics of 2012. The movement from fragmented information, held by different people at different points in the construction lifecycle, to a persistent, shared model is much talked about. Indeed, the government is committed to the adoption of BIM, seeing it as the method of increasing efficiency and reducing cost and carbon in the construction and maintenance of buildings and infrastructure.

At NBS we want to know what’s really going on. And we want to share that knowledge freely with the construction industry. Is there actually a BIM revolution going on in the UK? Are firms getting real improvements in their working methods? Is BIM increasing the amount of work they can deliver and the profitability of that work? Or is BIM the preserve of a few large practices and contractors? Are small practices being excluded from this revolution? Or is this all just hype from the software vendors, the construction media, and those with vested interests

To view the rest of this article please click on the following link

http://www.thenbs.com/topics/BIM/articles/whatsGoingOnInWorldOfBIM.asp

Almost half of architects using BIM

Fri, 08 Mar 2013 04:44:00 -0500

The latest NBS National BIM Survey shows that almost 40% of construction professionals are now using bim.

The data, collected between December 2012 and February 2013, also shows that 71% of respondents agree that bim is ‘the future of project information’.

Although the numbers using bim continues to grow, a lack of clarity around the subject was identified by the survey as an obstacle to more rapid adoption, with three-quarters agreeing that ‘the industry is ‘not clear enough on what bim is yet’.

To view the rest of this article please click on the following link

http://www.bdonline.co.uk/news/almost-half-of-architects-using-bim/5051240.article

BIM Execution Planning

Thu, 14 Feb 2013 10:00:18 -0500

To access the BIM Project Execution Planning guide please visit the Computer Integrated Construction(CIC) Research Program’s BIM Planning Website. At the CIC Research Program, their goal is to develop and disseminate a structured procedures for the adoption and implementation of BIM on Projects and in Organizations.

Building Information Modeling is a process focused on the development, use and transfer of digital information model of a building project to improve the design, construction and operations of a project or portfolio of facilities.

To visit this site and access the BIM Project Execution Planning guide then please click on the following link

http://bim.psu.edu/