CC Mar-Apr 2024

Construction 

Computing 

WWW.CONSTRUCTION-COMPUTING.COM 

MARCH/APRIL 2024 

VOL 20 NO 02 

Making Designs Constructable 

DBM Vircon develops constructable manufacturing 

models from engineer's designs 

Naviate Zero 

Symetri sets a new benchmark for 

sustainable building design 

AI Meets Big Data 

Access COINS transforms 

construction with ERP 

Cadventure continues 

Cadventure celebrates 35 years in 

the AEC industry 

@CCMagAndAwards

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CONTENTS 

MARCH/APRIL 2024 

CONTENTS 

CADVENTURE CONTINUES 12 

Founded by Paul Lewis and now run by MD 

Elaine Lewis,Cadventure are celebrating their 

35 years in the AEC industry with a conference 

on Digital Intelligence and the launch of 

Cadventure International 

NAVIATE ZERO 18 

Symetri sets a new benchmark in sustainable 

building design with the launch of Naviate 

Zero, which has been created to measure the 

embodied carbon stored in a design 

A WORKOUT FOR BIM 22 

Jonathan Reeves explains how JRA's use of 

BIM on a small Vectorworks-based project 

proved invaluable for discussions with the client 

TWINVIEW 26 

David Chadwick discusses the rationale behind 

the launch of Twinview with Rob Charlton, the 

CEO of Space Group 

NEWS.................................................INDUSTRY NEWS.......................................................................................................6 

• A NEW SITEVIEW, POWERED BY AI • A STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP FOR DIGITAL TWINS 

TECHNOLOGY FOCUS......................AI MEETS BIG DATA..............................................................................................8 

• ACCESS COINS USES AI AND BIG DATA TO TRANSFORM CONSTRUCTION WITH ERP 

TECHNOLOGY FOCUS......................A BIM HEALTH CHECK....................................................................................10 

• SIMON HAILSTONE AT CAMBASHI LOOKS AT THE STATE OF PLAY WITH BIM DATA MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE 

EVENT FOCUS...................................THE CADVENTURE DIGITAL INTELLIGENCE CONFERENCE...........................14 

• HOW DIGITAL INTELLIGENCE CAN ENABLE US TO BUILD BETTER AND IMPROVE COLLABORATION 

EVENT FOCUS...................................BIM & TONIC........................................................................................................16 

• NEMETSCHEK RECENTLY CELEBRATED ITS 60TH YEAR WITH THE LAUNCH OF DTWIN 

SOFTWARE FOCUS...........................TEKLA 2024..........................................................................................................20 

• TEKLA'S 2024 SOFTWARE LINE-UP OFFERS AN ENHANCED USER EXPERIENCE AND CONNECTED WORKFLOWS 

TECHNOLOGY FOCUS......................MAKING DESIGNS CONSTRUCTABLE............................................................24 

• DBM VIRCON DEVELOPS CONSTRUCTABLE MANUFACTURING MODELS FROM ENGINEER'S DESIGNS 

EVENT PREVIEW................................7 THINGS TO SEE AT DIGITAL CONSTRUCTION WEEK...................................28 

• PREVIEWING THE UK'S LEADING EVENT FOR INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY IN THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT 

CASE STUDY......................................NORTHERN EXCELLENCE...............................................................................30 

• COLLABORATION DELIVERS A CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE FOR DIGITAL AND CREATIVE LEARNING 

TRAINING MAP...................................AUTODESK TRAINING.......................................................................................32 

• YOUR GUIDE TO AUTODESK TRAINING 

INDUSTRY FOCUS.............................DIGITAL PRODUCT PASSPORTS......................................................................34 

• HOW THE CONSTRUCTION PRODUCTS REGULATION WITH ADVANCE ADOPTION OF DIGITAL PRODUCT PASSPORTS 

March/April 2024 3

COMMENT 

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Comment 

Nostalgia ain't what it used to be 

by David Chadwick 

In this issue we celebrate two 

anniversaries. The first is Nemetschek's 

incredible 60th, and the second is 

Cadventure's 35th anniversary, reached at 

the end of last year. The driving force for 

each were two visionaries, albeit with 

different types of vision. 

Georg Nemetschek, an engineer, realised 

in the 1970s that, while computers were in 

a very early stage at that time, they were 

still an ideal vehicle for the type of 

calculations involved in developing 

architectural designs - leading to the 

development of Allplan. The records don't 

say what the computers configurations 

were at that time, but I do know from 

personal experience that the graphics 

capabilities were somewhat limited. 

I was a computer user at about that time 

too - on the back of a Land Rover on 

Salisbury plain. FACE (Field Artillery 

Control Equipment) was operated by two 

NCOs to calculate trajectories for the Royal 

Artillery. As a junior subaltern, I sat behind 

them with a button on a cable attached to 

the computer. When their efforts looked as 

if they were correct, I pressed the Enter 

key. I was in sole command of ENT. The 

graphic display was incandescent figures 

at the top of the equipment. As 

Nemetschek's vision was a couple of years 

prior to that, it was some foresight. 

Fast forward a number of years, and I 

started working within the IT industry, as an 

observer, and not a doer. In 1980 a 

publisher, Europress, helped me set up 

and produce a magazine, Windfall, 

covering the Apple II computer. I wrote 

about Format 80, VisiCalc and PERT, the 

forerunners of Word, Excel and current 

project management software. Graphics 

capabilities were somewhat limited at the 

time, but I somehow remember something 

called Pink CAD, but when I Google it now 

it only comes up with images of an 

ostentatious American automobile. 

Paul Lewis, another engineer, was also 

involved in computing around that time, 

and also realised that, while things were 

starting to get really interesting in the field, 

a lot of architects, civil engineers and 

others working in an industry unfairly 

renowned for its blinkerism would need 

help to leverage the possibilities within the 

new and exciting area. To this end he 

established Cadventure, an apt name, to 

assist them. 

That need for guidance continues - 

perhaps even more so now, as the issues 

we currently contend with have multiplied 

while the resources have grown more 

complex - from the lack of young people 

entering the industry, to the 'threats or 

promises' of AI. 

There is no doubt that we have to 

accelerate the development of smart cities 

to accommodate rising human populations 

and the looming possibilty of population 

dispersion from unsustainable ecological 

deserts. We will need the resources of 

complex machine learning to ameliorate 

the evolution of the human race. 

Countering that we have the adverse 

capabilities of AI, which can be used to 

fake news stories, create images and 

videos indistinguishable from reality, and 

otherwise build alternative scenarios to 

spread information with a malicious intent. 

I applaud software developers within the 

construction industry who are introducing 

AI features in their most current releases - 

a welcome addition to help cope with the 

complex demands we face - but would 

offer a note of caution. They are an 

unsensient tool, performing complex tasks 

at the prodding of a human being. Most of 

the jobs in the construction industry, for 

example, aren't at risk from AI as 

construction is still building a world for 

humans, as difficult as that sometimes 

proves, and that is an unattainable task for 

current AI - and we must keep it so. 

4 March/April 2023

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INDUSTRY news 

A NEW SITEVIEW, POWERED BY AI 

PlanRadar is set to launch its 

new AI-powered 'SiteView' 

feature, which will empower 

users to capture 360° imagery 

of a project while walking the 

site, with the images automatically 

mapped onto a 2D plan, 

creating a detailed visual 

record of activity across every 

stage of the build. 

Group Co-CEO Ibrahim Imam 

noted, "This feature's a game 

changer for PlanRadar users, 

combining the easy-to-use 

experience with the highest levels 

of accuracy, making it possible 

to achieve complete visual 

as-builts, field progress and 

photo documentation in place 

of taking thousands of photos. 

"In addition, with our core documentation, 

communication 

and ticketing platform, SiteView 

means anyone working on a 

project can now easily go back 

and look 'behind the wall' to see 

exactly what was built or 

installed, often reducing rework." 

SiteView enables construction 

teams to walk a site with a 360° 

camera attached to a helmet, 

and SiteView does the rest. 

Reality capture images are 

automatically transferred from 

camera to app and ready to 

review in PlanRadar shortly 

after a site walk is completed, 

aligning the path walked onto 

the 2D plan. This makes it easy 

to document visual 'as-builts' in 

minutes once images are transferred, 

as well as quickly maintain 

any visual site documentation 

required. Additionally, a 

compare feature makes it easy 

to view images captured on 

two dates side-by-side during 

the build to see progress and 

spot any deflections. 

www.planradar.com 

NIMA CONFERENCE SPEAKERS ANNOUNCED 

At the nima Virtual Spring 

Conference on 18 April 

2024 visitors will witness exclusive 

live content from inspiring 

industry speakers at the forefront 

of digital change, and, 

post-event, this content will be 

available on demand to share 

with the wider industry. 

The 2024 Conference will 

inform, educate, share and 

signpost you to critical information 

and sources that will allow 

you to design, build and operate 

more efficiently and effectively 

through the better use and 

understanding of information 

management. The day will open 

with a welcome from nima chair 

Anne Kemp, and then the conference 

is structured around a 

series of four main keynote 

talks, each followed by a panel 

discussion. The full line-up of 

speakers is now available here: 

https://shorturl.at/wJZ12 

MAKING SUSTAINABLE ENGINEERING ADD UP 

Perega has launched its 

innovative CO2 accounting 

tool: The Carbon Calculator. 

The evolutionary platform 

empowers Perega's clients to 

assess the whole carbon footprint 

of their projects, from 

inception to completion. 

Importantly, enabling them to 

make greener material choices 

to faster, and better, 

achieve a more sustainable 

built environment. 

The calculator has been 

Hexagon's Geosystems division 

and the Nemetschek 

Group have announced a 

strategic partnership to accelerate 

digital transformation within 

the AEC/O industry. As a first 

step, the partnership is driving 

the adoption of digital twins by 

offering their customers a 

seamlessly integrated end-toend 

workflow for efficient and 

sustainable building operations. 

Hexagon leverages its end-toend 

reality capture and 

Scan2BIM solutions to automatically 

capture accurate and realtime 

field data to create Digital 

Twins across all sectors. It uses 

its AI-powered solutions to support 

building analytics and simulations, 

generate progress 

insights as well as provide an 

immersive experience navigating 

assets during design, construction 

and operations 

through its VR/AR and positioning 

technology. 

developed by the firm's dedicated, 

in-house Net Zero Carbon 

Group and uses a sophisticated 

algorithmic framework, 

analysing material emissions 

data to achieve lower-carbon 

outcomes. Harnessing the 

power of the latest digital technology, 

the calculator seamlessly 

integrates within the 

Revit model, offering a comprehensive 

carbon impact 

assessment. 

https://perega.co.uk 

STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP FOR DIGITAL TWINS 

dTwin, Nemetschek's new horizontal, 

open, and cloud-based 

Digital Twin platform delivers 

data-driven insights and helps 

customers to efficiently manage 

facilities from design to operations, 

fusing all data sources of 

a building in one overarching 

view. dTwin brings together all 

relevant information from 

CAD/BIM, IWMS, and more with 

the real-time streams from building 

operations, providing value 

via visualisation, data analysis 

and assets management. 

Jointly, Nemetschek and 

Hexagon will provide customers 

with the tools, services 

and expertise for an end-to-end 

digital twin workflow by joining 

the up-to-date building data 

through Hexagon's latest reality 

capture solutions with the 

smart and efficient building 

operations powered by 

Nemetschek's dTwin. 

www.hexagon.com 

6 

March/April 2024

VISIBILITY 

CONTROL 

ACCURACY 

CONSTRUCTION ERP SOFTWARE 

From pre-construction to post construction 

Visibility is everything; trust 

our software to give you control 

and accuracy. 

Access construction management 

software enables you to accurately 

estimate contracts, manage your 

projects with clear visibility and 

control your costs. 

Access Construction ERP Software 

comprises award-winning Enterprise 

Resource Planning (ERP) EasyBuild and 

ConQuest Estimating can help you with: 

• ESTIMATING 

• SITE MANAGEMENT 

• ACCOUNTING 

• HR AND PAYROLL 

• TRAINING 

• COMPLIANCE 

• PROCUREMENT 

• HOSTING AND CYBER SECURITY 

WHY CHOOSE SOFTWARE 

FROM ACCESS CONSTRUCTION? 

• Two core products written for the 

construction industry – ConQuest 

Estimating and EasyBuild ERP 

Software 

CONTACT US AND 

BOOK A DEMO TODAY 

Search: Access Construction 

• Bought alone or as an integrated 

package, we create the right solution 

for your company which can scale 

as you grow 

• Seamless implementation, with 

product training and dedicated 

customer support

TECHNOLOGYfocus 

AI Meets Big Data 

How Access COINS uses AI and Big Data to transform construction with ERP 

The construction industry is 

traditionally known for its reliance 

on manual processes, siloed data 

and a slow turn towards digital 

transformation. However, construction 

technology is currently experiencing a 

surge of innovation driven by artificial 

intelligence (AI) and Big Data. By 

integrating these technologies into 

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) 

software, construction companies are 

poised to unlock a new era of efficiency, 

profitability, and risk mitigation. 

ERP software acts as the 'central 

nervous system' of a construction 

company, managing crucial functions 

like project management, financials, the 

supply chain, service, and even the 

workforce. When infused with AI and Big 

Data - the vast amount of information 

available from both current and earlier 

building projects - the systems morph 

into intelligent hubs, transforming how 

construction companies operate across 

the entire project lifecycle. 

OPTIMISING PROJECT 

MANAGEMENT WITH FORESIGHT 

Project delays and cost overruns have 

long plagued construction companies. 

The AI built into ERP can significantly 

improve project management by 

analysing historical data. 

It does this by identifying trends and 

patterns, highlighting potential 

bottlenecks and allowing 

managers to finetune the ERP 

system to generate more 

accurate project schedules and 

budgets. Historical data on project 

durations, labour costs, and material 

requirements can be used to create 

more realistic forecasts, reducing the 

risk of projects overrunning or needing 

costly rework. AI can also predict and 

proactively address risks by analysing 

historical data such as subcontractor 

performance records. 

ERP systems, using the power of AI and 

big data analysis, can identify potential 

disruptions before they even occur, 

allowing project managers to take 

preventive measures and mitigate risks 

before they escalate. Alternatively, AI can 

optimise resource allocation by analysing 

a project's human resource requirements 

and worker skillsets to create optimal 

staffing plans, ensuring 

the right people are 

assigned to the right 

tasks and 

maximising 

efficiency and 

productivity. 

REAL-TIME VISIBILITY: A 

TRANSPARENT CONSTRUCTION 

SITE 

The construction site is a dynamic 

environment with constantly changing 

variables. However, big data can 

provide real-time visibility into every 

aspect of a construction project. This 

transparency allows for improved 

resource utilisation and tracking with 

enhanced progress monitoring, 

stemming from streamlined 

communication and collaboration 

capabilities. Real-time data sharing 

across all project stakeholders, from 

architects and engineers to 

subcontractors and on-site workers, 

fosters better collaboration and ensures 

everyone is on the same page. 

BOOSTING EFFICIENCY AND 

PRODUCTIVITY WITH 

AUTOMATION'S HELPING HAND 

Construction companies are burdened 

by repetitive tasks such as data 

entry, generating reports, and 

scheduling meetings. AIpowered 

automation within 

ERP systems can handle 

these tasks, freeing 

up valuable 

human 

8 



resources to focus on higher-level 

functions. This also leads to a reduced 

administrative burden, as project 

managers and other staff can dedicate 

more time to strategic planning, client 

communication, and problem-solving. 

Automation also improves data 

accuracy. Manual data entry is prone 

to errors, but AI can automate data 

capture and validation, ensuring the 

accuracy and consistency of project 

information. With real-time data at their 

fingertips and AI-powered insights 

readily available, project managers 

can make informed decisions quickly 

and adapt to changing circumstances, 

leading to faster and data-informed 

decision-making. 

BUILDING A MORE SUSTAINABLE 

FUTURE: A GREENER PATH 

FORWARD 

The construction industry is a 

significant contributor to raised carbon 

levels and its role in climate change - 

hence the drive towards zero carbon 

commitments and the introduction of 

embodied carbon calculation software. 

Big Data and AI within ERP can be 

harnessed to the same cause, 

promoting sustainability through 

several methods. 

Optimising material usage is an 

important and obvious step. AI can 

analyse project plans and suggest 

ways to minimise material waste, 

reducing their environmental impact 

by identifying and selecting 

sustainable materials and construction 

methods, reducing the environmental 

footprint of projects and building a 

more sustainable future for the 

construction industry. 

Selecting the most sustainable 

materials could come with an 

unsustainable price tag, though - the 

financial cost of shipping it in, as well 

as the embodied carbon cost - and AI 

can be used to factor that into the 

increasingly complex calculations. 

PROTECTING PROFIT MARGINS 

WITH FINANCIAL FORECASTING 

Financial forecasting within 

construction ERP software plays a 

critical role in maximising construction 

profit margins. Traditional methods 

often rely on estimations and historical 

averages, which can be inaccurate 

and lead to missed opportunities or 

financial shortfalls. 

AI-powered ERP systems, however, 

can analyse vast amounts of real-time 

data on project costs, material prices, 

labour expenses, and market 

fluctuations. This allows for highly 

accurate financial forecasts that 

consider potential risks and 

opportunities. With this level of 

foresight, construction companies can 

make informed decisions about 

resource allocation, pricing strategies, 

and project budgeting. 

For example, identifying potential 

cost overruns early on allows you to 

take appropriate steps and negotiate 

for improved terms with suppliers or to 

adjust a project's timelines. This 

proactive approach, enabled by 

accurate financial forecasting within 

the ERP system, helps construction 

companies stay ahead of potential 

problems and ultimately safeguard's 

their profit margins. 

THE ROAD AHEAD: EMBRACING 

THE FUTURE OF CONSTRUCTION 

While AI and big data hold immense 

potential for the construction industry, a 

successful implementation requires 

careful consideration and planning. 

Besides getting to know which areas of 

a project are of most concern, cause 

the cost overruns and which can be 

addressed by AI etc., additional 

challenges will include the ability to 

integrate the new technologies within an 

existing IT infrastructure, address data 

security concerns, and ensure 

employee buy-in. 

However, by overcoming these 

hurdles, construction companies can 

harness the power of AI and big data 

to revolutionise the way they build, 

paving the way for a future 

characterised by efficiency, 

sustainability, and innovation. 

ACCESS COINS IS AN AI- 

POWERED ERP BUILT FOR THE 

CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY 

With real-time data collection, 

automated reporting and analysis and 

powerful forecasting tools, Access 

COINS is a powerful ERP packed with 

features specific to the construction 

industry and can turn data into 

actionable insights. Fundamentally it 

uses AI to help construction 

companies control cashflow, uncover 

efficiencies and automate processes 

right across the construction lifecycle. 

Search 'Access COINS' or visit the 

website to learn more. 



A BIM Health Check 

Simon Hailstone, Principal Consultant at Cambashi, looks at the current state of play with BIM data 

management software 

In his recent article in this magazine 

(Whatever Happened to BIM Level 2, 

Jan/Feb issue), Mervyn Richards 

highlighted the challenges in the 

definition and use of standards, not only 

for BIM adoption, but also for its 

effective implementation. He pointed 

out that many research projects have 

concluded that one major problem 

impacting the delivery of construction 

projects is the lack of quality 

information. In other words, data. 

It's perhaps not surprising then that 

the fastest growing sector for providers 

of Architecture, Engineering and 

Construction (AEC)-related software 

over the last five years has been 

applications for BIM data management. 

These applications cover a range of 

capabilities, from generic file storage 

and management through to fully datadriven 

Common Data Environments 

(CDEs). Some address specific aspects 

of the overall BIM Design, Build, 

Operate, and Integrate cycle, while 

others aim to cover the entire end-toend 

process. 

GOING FOR GROWTH 

One thing is for sure - the demand for 

these applications is certainly on the 

up. I have accumulated over 25 years 

of expertise in the AEC software 

applications industry, and since joining 

Cambashi in 2008 as a principal 

analyst specialising in researching the 

BIM market landscape, I've gained 

unique insights into the intricate 

dynamics of the data management 

solutions landscape. 

The extensive BIM research we have 

undertaken at Cambashi indicates that 

the BIM data management software 

sector as a whole had a five-year 

compound annual growth rate (CAGR) 

of over 20%. This contrasts with the 

design-related applications growth of 

around 10%, and even outstrips the 

buoyant construction tech sector 

growth of 16%. 

Although geographically much of this 

software growth has been primarily in 

the US, BIM awareness globally has 

also seen similar levels of growth 

across Europe and Asia. 

SEAMLESS PROCESS 

The data management solution 

landscape is diverse, reflecting not only 

the different approaches of the software 

vendors, but also the emerging state of 

BIM and digital transformation within the 

construction industry. A key tenet of BIM 

is the creation of a seamless process 

throughout the built asset lifecycle. 

However, existing practices in long 

established industries are not easily or 

rapidly changed. The result is inevitably 

a hybrid of types of digital assets 

managed by a mélange of processes. 

Despite tech sector marketing 

messaging to the contrary, not everyone 

is floating in the cloud in the data 

equivalent of the Gaia hypothesis. 

Aspects of the construction lifecycle are 

still driven by a document- and filecentric 

approach. PDFs, Excel, and 

prints are still very much in place, and 

the scope of vendor applications 

reflects this. 

In some respects, the path of data and 

lifecycle management in AEC reflects 

the one already taken in the 

manufacturing sector over the last 25 

years. The drive there was from the 

design engineering discipline, and 

consequently the major design software 

vendors focused on capturing control of 

the established CAD file base. However, 

the evolving situation for BIM data 

management in AEC has some distinct 

differences and potential advantages: 

Firstly, public sector BIM initiatives 

related to infrastructure are helping 

to set the agenda and, in principle, 

are driving awareness, integration 

and adoption. This contrasts with 

the early adopters in manufacturing, 

where corporate competitive 

advantage and vendor isolation 

limited the opportunities for whole 

lifecycle benefits. 

Secondly, current technologies, in 

particular the cloud and on-demand 

services, lend themselves 

particularly well to large, distributed 

data sets for information 

contributors and consumers. 

LEADING VENDORS 

According to our research, the top 10 

providers of BIM data management 

10 



software accounted for more than 85% 

($1.5Bn) of the total worldwide market 

in 2023. Of course, this includes the 

usual suspects - Autodesk, Bentley, 

Nemetschek - who start from a position 

of model file and existing end-user 

dominance. Each has taken a 

somewhat different approach to 

supporting the BIM lifecycle, but all are 

moving from their design file roots 

towards end-to-end, data-driven 

outcomes. 

Trimble and Oracle have a long history 

in the construction sector. It is no 

surprise to see both in the top 10 

providers, although the nature of their 

solutions highlights the challenge of 

defining the boundaries of 'pure' data 

management vs. core process support. 

Procore has been one of the fastest 

growing vendors in recent times 

supporting the construct part of the 

BIM cycle, and underlying this is a 

strong data management platform. Its 

success reflects how technologically 

untapped parts of the construction 

industry can be connected and 

significant efficiencies gained. 

All of the major vendors have a 

presence in China and have 

experienced growth in tandem with the 

historical boom in construction there, 

although the recent downturn in the real 

estate sector is proving challenging. 

Glodon is the largest local incumbent, 

with around two thirds of the nearly 

$150m market, and its reach within the 

construction sector is substantial. 

This software market is somewhat 

unusual in that there is no 'long-tail' of 

small, often niche providers. Cambashi 

research suggests that the number is 

less than 50 vendors accounting for 

around 15% of the market. Compare 

that with more than 600 small vendors 

in the design space with 20% of the 

market. This may reflect the fact that 

this sector has been driven historically 

largely top-down by general 

contractors and larger practices and 

the larger vendors have built on their 

existing user base. It may also hide the 

fact that generic or home-grown 

solutions are more prevalent. 

It is important to remember that 

vendors continue to make significant 

investments in new technologies that 

will eventually benefit the entire AEC 

ecosystem. All are in it for the long 

haul, and in the case of the data 

management of long-lived assets, it's 

probably the biggest game in town. 

DIGITISATION JOURNEY 

So, is BIM data management software 

set to continue its steady rise? 

Although the digitisation journey in AEC 

is still in its infancy, we can expect to 

see this trend continuing. Cambashi 

sees a CAGR for the next five years of 

around 15%, assuming no 'super 

disruptors' appear to challenge the 

status quo? 

There is a burgeoning number of 

software startups in the AEC sector. 

This, combined with the rapid 

acceleration of AI, spatial computing 

and new business models (e.g. 

treasury.space) means there is a good 

chance that the BIM data management 

space as defined today will grow in 

new directions, and will inevitably 

challenge the incumbents. 

With most major AEC firms well into 

their digital journeys, the opportunities 

for the industry lie with users in SMBs, 

small practices and subcontractors. 

Indeed, many vendors are now turning 

their attention to this potentially lucrative 

market. However, demonstrating the 

value and returns to all levels of the 

supply chain remains one of the biggest 

challenges. BIM data management will 

therefore become even more critical in 

providing these proof-points in the 

digital economy. 

For more information visit: 

www.cambashi.com/bim 


INDUSTRYfocus 

Cadventure Continues 

Founded by Paul Lewis and 

now run by MD Elaine Lewis, 

Cadventure are celebrating 

their 35 years in the AEC 

industry with a conference on 

Digital Intelligence and the 

launch of Cadventure 

International 

The late 1980s was a great time to 

start an IT company, as desktop 

computers were beginning to 

acquire the power to run more 

advanced software with better quality 

graphics. This was sufficient to 

persuade Paul Lewis to think about 

using his experience and expertise to 

help architects and engineers get the 

best from the emerging technology. 

Paul studied for his BSc. in Computer 

Science at Lancaster University, 

following this up as a graduate 

Technical Engineer at British Aerospace. 

Continuing his studies, he achieved his 

MSc. in Computer Aided Design and 

Engineering Systems, then moved to 

Intergraph Corporation, the original 

home of MicroStation. This journey was 

the spark that inspired Cadventure. 

Not to be outdone, Elaine studied 

Economics at Lancaster University (they 

met when she tripped over his rucksack) 

and studied for her MBA at Cranfield 

before continuing her commercial career 

as a Director for a start-up. 

And the last 35 years? Whilst waiting 

for his car to be fixed one fateful day in 

1989, Paul took the opportunity to find 

a bit of office space in Kingston-Upon- 

Thames where he could bring his idea 

to life. He chose the name Cadventure, 

as everything he wanted to do was 

centred on CAD, and starting his own 

company was an adventure. So, in the 

same week that Sir Tim Berners-Lee 

proposed the commercial idea of the 

internet, Cadventure was born. 

This year, they celebrate their 35th 

year in the industry with a growing 

reputation and the launch of 

Cadventure International as a leading 

European supplier of solutions for the 

Construction industry. 

Cadventure's very first client was 

Foster & Partners, who asked Paul to 

tune their DEC VAX machines and to 

sort out their electrostatic plotters. They 

have since worked together on many 

occasions - the first of many 

consultancy engagements, to which 

Cadventure added training, delivery 

and software sales. 

Significant milestones along the way 

also include becoming a Bentley 

Channel Partner in 1993, a Vectorworks 

Channel Partner in 2003, introducing 

3D printers to their clients in 2005 and 

being appointed as the SpaceClaim 

reseller in 2010. In 2019 they were 

invited to become resellers for 

Bluebeam and Solibri. 

12 


INDUSTRYfocus 

The Building Centre, just off 

Tottenham Court Road, has been their 

London home since 1997, which is 

when Elaine, Paul's wife, joined the 

company to support with its growth 

plans. Elaine rapidly became an 

essential part of the business, leading 

to her taking over as Managing Director 

in 2013. 

Another UK office was opened in 2007 

on Cotswold Airport near Cirencester, 

which is now home to the Head Office 

team. Aircraft just happened to be 

another passion of Paul's, and residing 

on a working airport means there is 

always something interesting happening. 

Paul is quite unconventional in the 

way he does business. He is 

passionate about the technology, 

encouraging his staff to think outside 

the box and be flexible in helping the 

company's clients, and to add value to 

these relationships. This customercentric 

approach has worked well for 

Cadventure over many years. 

As Elaine Lewis comments "If we 

continue to put our clients at the centre 

of what we do, ensuring that we meet 

their needs, then it is proven that 

ultimately it will also be good for our 

vendors and for Cadventure." 

The formation of Cadventure 

International has expanded its footprint 

from the UK into Europe, establishing 

Cadventure International's head office in 

Dublin. Cadventure have also picked up 

a whole series of awards for their work 

culture, being named Employer of the 

Year regional finalists for Apprenticeships 

with the National Apprentice Scheme. 

They have also been recognised by both 

Bentley Systems and Bluebeam with 

awards for both new business 

development growth and exceptional 

commitment as partners. 

Cadventure truly is a family company. 

Whilst they have grown and adapted 

their range of activities over the last 35 

years, they remain true to their vision to 

help architects, engineers and 

construction companies understand 

their purpose, people and processes 

and to use technology to deliver 

projects more effectively. 

Most recently Cadventure have 

introduced new consultancy services 

around Bentley ProjectWise, SYNCHRO 

and BCDE, and have given strategic 

information management advice to 

some of the largest infrastructure 

delivery partners in the UK. 

Today Cadventure has an enviable 

collaboration network - an extended 

team of technical consultants who form 

part of the Cadventure Collaboration 

Community. This is a hugely-talented 

and growing international community of 

leading software and solutions experts. 

Together they are able to harness their 

collective capabilities to deliver diverse 

and complementary skillsets to service 

client engagements across the 

broadest range of technologies. 

Cadventure also like to find a way to 

give back to the AEC community. They 

are enormously proud of their 

partnership with Alison Watson MBE 

and Class Of Your Own as their global 

training provider, one of the enthralling 

speakers at Cadventure's recent 

symposium on Digital Intelligence. 

Cadventure have developed and deliver 

the technical training promoted by 

Alison, using Bentley software, to 

teachers worldwide. 

This empowers the teachers to 

educate the next generation of AEC 

professionals through the Design 

Engineer Construct technical 

qualifications for 11-18 year olds. Along 

with providing internationally accredited 

DEC Level 1 to 3 qualifications that 

carry UCAS points, the program is 

vitally important in building a 

community of bright young minds keen 

to explore career opportunities in the 

Built Environment, not just here in the 

UK but all over the world. 

With a growing reputation within the 

industry, Cadventure has gathered 

friends and supporters throughout the 

industry, many of whom Elaine has met 

through being a mentor for Women in 

BIM, a judge for the Women in 

Engineering and Construction Awards 

(WICE Awards), as a supporter of 

MIPIM Ladies, and she has been 

chosen as one of the top 30 most 

Inspirational Business Women in STEM 

and Construction in 2023. She is also a 

non-Executive Director for nima. 

But, most importantly, Elaine and Paul 

are proud of the support from their 

Cadventure team, some of whom have 

been part of the Cadventure story for 

more than 20 years. 

As for the future? Cadventure are 

keen to build on the success of the 

recent Cadventure Digital Intelligence 

Conference and further expand their 

global reach with Cadventure 

International, and continue to look for 

ways to bring the solutions that in the 

past only bigger companies have used 

to the wider AEC community. Watch 

this space! 

www.cadventure.co.uk 


EVENTfocus 

The Cadventure Digital Intelligence Conference 

David Chadwick reports back from the inaugural Cadventure Digital Intelligence Conference, which 

explored how Digital Intelligence can enable us to build better and improve collaboration 

It's quite refreshing discussing Digital 

rather than Artificial Intelligence. The 

latter now appears to be attached to 

any process that requires complex tasks 

to be performed more efficiently, and 

which are often probably better described 

as advanced machine learning. At the 

Cadventure Digital Intelligence 

Conference, though, the emphasis was on 

collaboration and exploring the best tools 

and resources available to leverage digital 

information within the built environment. 

The conference was held in London, 

appropriately at 8 Bishopsgate, the new 

home of Cadventure's conference partner, 

Bentley Systems. Presentations from 

thought leaders covered productivity, 

connectivity and sustainability, exploring 

new ideas and discussing how Bentley 

technology is transforming the design 

and construction process, with a couple 

of thought-provoking presentations from 

outside the industry. 

To set the scene, the opening Keynote 

presentation was delivered by Fabrice 

Bourrelly, an Interactive Senior Consultant 

at Cityscape Digital, who works within the 

real estate industry. and whose current 

focus is on the development of real-time, 

immersive technology, creating interactive 

models of buildings and landscapes. With 

some compelling examples, he 

demonstrated how video games have 

opened the industry up to a completely 

new way of designing. 

The slickest renders have their 

limitations, he explained, A single image 

shows only one viewpoint. What real-time 

technology allows us to do is to 

communicate design intent far better by 

enabling stakeholders to interact in realtime 

with designs in the same way that 

games ineract with 3D environments in 

video games. 

Paul Shillcock, MD of Operam Academy, 

gave the closing Keynote. Paul is an 

expert in helping teams maximise their 

potential, based on his experiences in 

playing competitive sport and his time in 

the British Army. The adoption of a digital 

strategy can be challenging for senior 

managers, he reasoned, many of whom 

who have spent decades working in a 

traditional professional environment. 

Building effective teams for a digital future 

requires requires them to adapt, perform 

and collaborate to achieve more. 

With Fabrice covering the direction that 

virtual and augmented reality is taking us, 

and its use of the wealth of digital 

information we have available, and Paul 

outlining the role of teamwork in managing 

that information, the core content of the 

conference was neatly encapsulated. 

Focusing more directly on the theme of 

the conference, the 'meat in the sandwich' 

was provided by Simon McGowan, Digital 

Project Delivery Coordinator at Balfour 

Beatty Vinci, who spoke about Digital 

Project Delivery, and the mammoth task of 

developing an asset information model 

(AIM) for the part of HS2 that his company 

is currently working on. 

The scale of the project was probably 

familiar to many of the attendees, with 

over 10,000 models and documents and 

over 100,000 individual components, 

each of which had to be assigned unique 

asset identifiers (UAIDs). Creating the 

AIMs added further complexity, as each 

asset that they added had to be 

integrated within Bentley's ProjectWise 

workflow configuration, and required 

"integration, lots of testing, further 

integration development and the inclusion 

of error handling processes, followed by a 

lot more testing." 

A crucial part of this, Simon explained, 

was the push/pull process that integrated 

the asset within the AIMs. ProjectWise's 

DM3 model files are used to create records 

for each component, which are then 

tagged. They've currently built around 355 

graphic models, each with an average of 

25,000 components and a total of 256,000 

components to manage. He closed with 

three messages for the audience: "Define 

the model early, don't be afraid to change 

things, and don't put it off." 

Simon was followed by James 

Colclough and Chris Andrew of AECOM, 

who spoke about National Highways 

Information Management for a current 

A303 project. They talked about the 

management of graphic data and data 

exchange for asset information models 

with over 2,000 data layers. Similarly, the 

scale of digital information management 

is "challenging." Their key message was 

to "ensure the data is fit for purpose, with 

effective reporting in place, supported by 

dashboards and other deliverables." 

Further presentations came from Tom 

Price, MD of Informed Engineering 

Limited, who spoke about delivering 

better projects through improved 

collaboration, and Elin Kågas Ramström, 

Business Developer Digitisation Road & 

Rail at Tyrens, who discussed the use of 

digitalisation and innovation within AEC, 

and how the Bentley User Group 

contributes. Greg Demchak from the 

Digital Innovation Lab at Bentley Systems 

also gave us all a glimpse into the 

Metaverse used for the design and 

operation of infrastructure projects. 

Personal highlights of the conference 

included Alison Watson MBE, Founder & 

Chief Executive, Class Of Your Own, 

speaking on inspiring the next generation 

of construction industry leaders, and Joan 

Mulvihill, Digitalisation and Sustainability 

Lead at Siemens who talked about 

creative thinking and read aloud from 

John Ruskin to a captive and enthralled 

audience. I'm hopeful that the conference 

will become an annual event. 

www.cadventure.co.uk 

14 


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EVENTfocus 

BIM & Tonic 

Nemetschek recently celebrated its 60th year with the launch of an innovative digital twin application - 

dTwin - punningly paired with a gin tasting experience, writes David Chadwick 

That's not my title - it was a lovely 

play on words from Nemetschek 

themselves, who recently hosted a 

combined event that celebrated the 60th 

anniversary of the company's existence 

and the launch of dTwin, seasoned by a 

gin tasting experience. 

60 years is quite an achievement for a 

company. Formed in 1963 by Georg 

Nemetschek, the company sought to 

leverage the latest developments in 

computing technology, such as they were, 

for his Munich-based engineering 

company. His visionary aim was described 

by Yves Padrines, the current CEO of 

Nemetschek, which now heads a group of 

IT software companies within the 

construction industry, media and 3D 

visualisation, most of them familiar names. 

Realising even then that computers in 

the 1970s would provide a suitable 

platform for hosting CAD software, Georg 

Nemetschek introduced Allplan, the first 

CAD solution for architects. Focusing 

entirely on those sectors, the company is 

now the second largest software 

company in Germany, and amongst the 

top five publicly listed software 

companies in Europe, capitalised around 

10 billion Euro. It has enjoyed over 1,700 

per cent growth over the last 10 years. 

Whilst Allplan, a BIM solution for 

architects and engineers, is 

Nemetschek's leading brand, better 

known in the UK are Graphisoft's 

Archicad and Vectorworks. Structural 

engineering software and analytics 

software is provided by FRILO in 

Europe or Risa in North America, whilst 

Solibri provides clash detection and 

quality assurance. 

Another major brand is Bluebeam, 

which now has over three million users, 

and is soon to add AI functionality, 

scheduling and estimation on a 

Bluebeam Cloud platform. Less wellknown 

are Spacewell, workspace and 

energy management software, and Crem 

Solutions, a property management ERP 

for the German market. A module called 

Office also gathers building intelligent 

software from the design and 

construction lifecycle, for complex 

building like hospital clinics, or data 

centres, to be handed over at the end of 

the construction cycle. 

Nemetschek exhibits some 

uniqueness compared to the 

competition, but it is playing in a market 

that is showing variable levels of 

growth. Designing and planning is more 

digitalised than other areas but still has 

levels of digitalisation below 10%. There 

is a huge level of digitalisation, however, 

that can still be done in facility and 

asset management. 

CHALLENGES FOR THE INDUSTRY 

Yves underlined his statement, pointing 

out challenges that affect the industry. 

"90% of projects are late or over budget," 

he said, and that "It's a global issue." That 

was confirmed by fellow infrastructure 

and construction delegates at a McKinley 

symposium in Dubai from which Yves 

had just returned. 

The problem will be compounded as 

projects are getting larger and more 

complex. In addition, close to 40% of the 

global CO2 emissions are from the 

construction industry, some from the 

design and construction phase, but most 

from during the operation and 

maintenance of a building. This is 

complicated further by an estimated 20% 

of materials used in the construction 

project being wasted. Last but not least, 

16 


EVENTfocus 

is the lack of manpower in construction. 

"Take a look at profit margins," Yves said, 

"Single digit percentages in the best 

cases, to set against the increase in costs 

over the last two years. A lot of companies 

are, therefore, in the red. Business as 

usual, is not an option any longer." 

Companies are adopting software 

solutions to streamline their workflow, to 

design greener buildings, but also to 

calculate material resources more 

accurately. Energy efficiency is a hugely 

important topic, set against the rising 

costs of energy. To counter this, 

developers, construction companies and 

operators are rethinking how they can 

streamline their workflows. 

DTWIN FOR ASSET MANAGEMENT 

The second part of BIM & Tonic was an 

introduction to dTwin, Nemetschek's data 

driven digital twin of a building aimed at 

owners and operators. According to 

Nemetschek, a digital twin is not just the 

representation of a model. To work 

effectively it needs real time data from 

sensors and other IoT devices and 

building management systems (BMS), 

for all parts of the building, aggregating 

historical and current data and defining 

their relationships. 

As it is data, not model, driven dTwin 

can use data from any type of source, 

including brownfield and older buildings. 

Where no model is available, videos and 

images can be scanned to BIM and 

labelled as a digital twin and populated 

with sensors together with their attributes 

and operating requirements. 

A dTwin model can also be based on 

panorama images, reality captures, point 

clouds or 2D drawings - in fact anything 

that can help to collate the information 

needed to manage the building. What's 

more, the solution covers more than just 

buildings. dTwin can also be integrated 

into infrastructure and transport projects, 

two sectors where Bluebeam and Solibri 

are already used extensively. 

Layers of information can be built up, 

providing a wealth of connected 

information which can be used for 

different kinds of analytical insights, 

represented in dashboards, reports, 

alarms and notifications, helping 

decision makers to optimise the running 

of their properties and reducing their 

costs, improving utilisation or just making 

it more comfortable for its occupants. 

The analysis is driven by advanced 

algorithms that overlay data from each 

sensor, including its location in relation 

to other assets, material, and other 

relevant attributes. This is supplemented 

by cameras and other devices that 

identify the repositioning of objects 

within a building that would affect a 

sensor's readings. 

How is this relevant? In a hospital, for 

example, there are a lot of things that 

move every day, and their positioning 

may have an effect on the temperature 

levels within a room. It doesn't make 

sense to keep opening the BIM tool and 

start modelling the objects moving from 

one place to the other, but the 

repositioning can be tracked by other 

resources, and compensation made to 

the sensor readings. 

Nemetschek's own IoT infrastructure 

can ingest any kind of device data (a 

device agnostic infrastructure) and can 

read data, process it, run algorithms 

for anomaly detection, identify issues 

in real time, and store it in for 

subsequent analysis. 

If any component requires annual 

maintenance, then time-dedicated 

notifications can be raised. Similarly, if 

there are uncomfortable temperatures or 

higher energy consumption in a building, 

they can be used to trigger notifications 

and alarms, either via email, SMS or 

through the platform itself. 

The dashboards are customisable and 

can read data from whatever facility 

management software the manager is 

using in order to show work orders, 

what's planned, what's in progress, how 

it affects the budget, and what kind of 

works are currently in progress - all in 

real time. Colour coding is used to clarify 

each stage of a process, with red 

highlighting issues that need attention. 

dTwin keeps abreast of the latest 

technology, utilising data from the most 

up-to-date resources - but the smart part 

is adding value by recognising the 

relationships between the information, 

overlapping real time information with 

material properties, their geometry and 

position and 3D context. 

You can check this by viewing the 

model and selecting an area and then 

toggling the value of any layers and 

seeing how this affects the analysis and 

results, whether it relates to electrical 

models, MEP, architecture, or any kind of 

information. This enables users to 

generate different models and leverage 

the spatial structure of BIM data to fully 

understand the performance and the 

different levels of information that their 

buildings can provide. Surely a true BIM 

& Tonic for the industry. 

www.nemetschek.com 


TECHNOLOGY focus 

Naviate Zero 

Symetri sets a new benchmark in sustainable building design with the launch of Naviate Zero 

The Paris Agreement, which was 

established in December 2015 at 

the COP 21 conference held in 

Paris, is an internationally binding treaty 

aimed at combatting climate change. 

Under the auspices of the UNFCCC, its 

main aim is to cap the rise in average 

temperature by 2 degrees Celsius to 

prevent a disastrous shift in our 

climate. The world is warming up and 

the principal culprit is carbon dioxide, 

which absorbs and radiates heat and is 

the main contributor to what we call the 

greenhouse effect. 

The building industry is a major 

contributor to the release of CO2 into 

the atmosphere, amounting to 39% of 

energy related carbon emissions 

annually, according to the Rocky 

Mountain Institute (RMI), with a quarter 

of these emissions coming from 

embodied carbon. Embodied carbon 

refers to the carbon emissions 

associated with the extraction, 

processing, and fabrication of building 

materials, as well as the transportation 

and construction processes required to 

build the building. 

The bulk of carbon emissions come 

from the energy required during the 

operation of the building or 

infrastructure through its lifetime. These 

emissions can be minimised through 

sustainable focused designs and 

further reduced by using sustainable 

energy sources, building performance 

monitoring and other energy efficiency 

measures. However, embodied carbon 

emissions are fixed once construction 

has been completed. The only way to 

reduce this is to select building 

materials, components and 

manufacturing processes which have a 

lower carbon emission impact. 

Measures range from the most 

obvious, for example, using local rather 

than distant material sources, as 

transport is a significant contributor to 

carbon emissions. More complex 

examples include material composition. 

Concrete, for instance, has variables 

that range from the location of the 

supplier to the amount of slag, fly ash 

or other lime-based materials in the 

concrete mix, which could reduce 

embodied carbon by 14-33% at 

minimal cost. As part of a life-cycle 

calculation, embodied carbon also 

assesses the ability to reuse materials 

when a building is demolished, and 

factors in the use of more durable 

materials that require less 

maintenance. 

NAVIATE ZERO 

Mitigating the impact of embodied 

carbon can only be achieved by more 

efficient design and material selection 

in the early stages of a building's lifecycle. 

This can be done by measuring 

the embodied carbon in the design and 

comparing options. 

Naviate Zero has been created by 

Symetri to measure the embodied 

carbon stored in a design and is fully 

integrated within Autodesk's Revit to 

help designers make well-informed 

decisions in sustainable design and 

construction. Naviate Zero utilises the 

extensive database provided by Finnish 

company One Click LCA, the leading 

global platform for lifecycle 

assessment, environmental product 

declaration and sustainability. 

Naviate is Symetri's platform for 

enhancing workflows and performance 

in building and infrastructure design. It 

consists of a portfolio of solutions 

aimed at architects and engineers, and 

other industry professionals. Naviate 

provides support for the whole BIM 

workflow including documentation, 

collaboration, project management and 

now embodied carbon mitigation. 

One Click LCA is the industry-leading 

solution for environmental life-cycle 

assessment of all building and 

infrastructure projects. Whole life-cycle 

assessments, from the materials and 

products used in the project, through 

construction, usage and maintenance, 

to the end-of-life deconstruction, are 

easily carried out in One Click LCA 

using their global data sources. 

Manufacturers can create and publish 

their own Environmental Product 

Declarations (EPDs) in One Click LCA 

for incorporation into the construction 

project life-cycle assessment. Used in 

more than 130 countries, One Click 

LCA not only provides the data for 

embodied carbon calculations, but also 

runs benchmarks on low carbon 

products and projects and creates 

corporate greenhouse gas reports. 

Due to the iterative design process 

during the early stages of all 

construction projects, being able to 

quickly and easily calculate the 

embodied carbon stored in the 

materials is essential to achieve an 

environmentally efficient project. 

Symetri have created Naviate Zero to 

18 



enable those calculations to be carried 

out in Revit as the design evolves, 

before exporting the data to complete 

the whole life-cycle analysis in One 

Click LCA. 

Naviate Zero enables One Click LCA's 

EPD resources to be applied to 

elements in the model and then 

accurately measure CO2 emissions 

from building materials inside Revit. It 

enables architects to make more 

informed sustainability decisions at the 

earliest stages of building or 

infrastructure design and provides a 

simplified process for material selection 

and total embodied carbon calculations 

for the whole project. 

According to Nicolai Karved, Product 

Manager at Symetri, "Our primary focus 

is on designers who work within Revit, 

and we aim to bridge the gap between 

professionals whose primary role is 

sustainability and those who must 

make design decisions and provide 

essential data for sustainability 

assessments. With Naviate Zero, we 

aim to simplify this workflow and make 

it easier to make informed decisions". 

As an integrated solution within Revit, 

users can work with the tools and 

dashboards they are already familiar 

with. The process of material selection 

is just as easy: 

1. Choose an element in the model, 

such as a wall, floor, ceiling, etc. 

2. Naviate Zero will suggest materials 

based on the element, which you can 

search and filter for one that is most 

suitable. 

3. Compare the materials suggested 

based on their carbon footprint (red 

highlighting high and green, low carbon 

footprints). 

4. Assign your chosen material to the 

element. The EPD information is saved 

with the element. 

5. When all materials are assigned you 

can see a summary of the total CO2 

emissions of the model, as well as a 

breakdown by material or category. 

6. Individual elements can still be 

viewed and materials modified to fine 

tune the model according to other 

associated factors, such as availability 

and cost etc. 

7. The carbon emission data can then 

be exported as with any other 

information in the model. 

One Click LCA's coverage enables 

EPD data to be available on a global 

basis, rather than the limited data 

available from region specific tools. A 

bigger plus, though, is that Naviate 

Zero can be used to guide the process 

by recommending specific EPDs based 

on various criteria - a unique feature in 

the industry. 

SYMETRI'S ASPIRATIONS 

The development of Naviate Zero 

arises from Symetri's dedication to 

providing the tools that will enable their 

customers to make positive 

environmental contributions. This was 

neatly summarised by Mikko Viertola, 

the CTO of Symetri, who said "At 

Symetri, our purpose is to inspire and 

enable people to work smarter for a 

better future. Acknowledging the 

environmental impact within our client's 

industries, we recognised the 

responsibility and identified an 

opportunity to make a positive 

contribution. The vision evolved to 

empower individuals to make wellinformed, 

sustainably responsible 

decisions and has materialised now 

through Naviate Zero, a platform that 

integrates reliable data to facilitate 

informed decision-making in 

sustainable design and construction". 

Jens Kollserud, the CEO of Symetri, 

made an important point when 

speaking about the inspiration behind 

Naviate Zero. He said that Symetri's 

goal is broader than just one product 

and that it was about a holistic 

approach to decarbonisation. "For 

example," he said, "we also have 

Naviate Daylight in our portfolio, which 

helps in energy consumption reduction 

by optimising natural light use in 

buildings. Naviate Zero is just one of 

our larger missions to help customers 

work smarter and more sustainably". 

Emphasising the contribution that the 

Naviate platform will make to the 

industry he continued, "We're 

developing a suite of applications 

within the Naviate portfolio, each 

addressing different parts of the 

construction process. While 

sustainability is a key focus, there are 

other areas where we believe Naviate 

can help customers work smarter". 

Need any more convincing? With 

wastage from building materials and 

construction processes estimated to be 

up to 30% both during construction and 

at the end of a building's lifecycle, we 

are obligated to step up our efforts to 

reduce the levels of embodied carbon 

in our designs. 

Find out more about Naviate Zero at: 

https://bit.ly/4aIzGCv. 


SOFTWAREfocus 

Tekla 2024 

Tekla's 2024 line-up of structural BIM software offers an enhanced user experience and connects 

workflows across projects and stakeholders 

Trimble has announced the introduction 

of 2024 versions of its Tekla software 

for constructible Building Information 

Modelling (BIM), structural engineering and 

steel fabrication management. Boasting an 

enhanced user experience, Tekla Structures 

2024, Tekla Structural Designer 2024, Tekla 

Tedds 2024 and Tekla PowerFab 2024 let 

users collaborate with ease through 

enhanced communication for more 

integrated, connected workflows between 

all construction project stakeholders. 

Usability improvements make the Tekla suite 

of solutions ideal for experienced and new 

users alike, helping them to be on schedule 

and within budget of their projects. 

Collaboration is one of the deciding 

factors for the success of BIM. The 2024 

Tekla versions include industry-standard 

communications improvements that 

allow users to deliver required 

documentation and model information 

efficiently, using a wider variety of 

supported industry formats. Connected 

workflows form the cornerstone of 

sustainable construction strategies to 

focus on increasing efficiency, optimising 

resource allocation, reducing waste and 

supporting comprehensive maintenance 

across the full lifecycle of an asset - all 

anchored in constructible design. 

Michael Evans, Senior Product Director 

- Trimble Engineering and BIM solutions, 

said: "Improving coordination between 

all stakeholders on projects is key to 

ensuring the industry can deliver projects 

on time, budget and schedule. The Tekla 

2024 versions are another significant 

step in bringing all those stakeholders 

closer together." 

TEKLA STRUCTURES 2024 

The 2024 version of Tekla Structures 

provides an enhanced user experience for 

staying on schedule and on budget. It 

provides engineers and detailers - who 

work on complex geometry projects - 

access to more intuitive modelling with 

fewer iterations from the start. Automated 

fabrication drawing cloning improvements 

deliver significant benefits for steel and 

precast cast unit drawings creation. 

The software's robust change 

management allows users to work 

efficiently with the opportunity to quickly 

deliver drawings that match industry 

regulations and transfer model data errorfree 

to support client requirements. 

TEKLA STRUCTURAL DESIGNER 2024 

The analysis capability of the structural 

design and analysis software Tekla 

Structural Designer 2024 has been 

enhanced with Staged Construction 

Analysis, which takes into account that 

there is a sequence in construction and 

loading. This fully automated process, 

which is quick and easy to use, can be 

applied to the design of both concrete 

and steel structures. Structural Engineers 

can now also use reference models from 

other disciplines such as architecture or 

MEP to check compatibility with their 

structural model. 

TEKLA TEDDS 2024 

The latest version of Tekla's software for 

structural engineering calculations builds 

20 


SOFTWAREfocus 

upon the seamless integration of structural 

design information and documentation 

with Tekla Structures to improve 

collaborative design-to-detailing. 

Tekla Tedds 2024 offers updated 

libraries of predefined structural 

calculations and custom calculation 

capabilities for faster, more reliable 

structural element design, also in multimaterial 

designs. It now also offers 

masonry design for US codes, steel 

angle design for European and US 

codes, and retaining basement wall 

analysis and design for European and 

US codes. 

TEKLA POWERFAB 2024 

The 2023i version of the Tekla PowerFab 

steel fabrication management software 

introduced visual change management 

and estimate job costing. The latest 

version now introduces enhanced project 

management tools for organising and 

keeping track of subcontracts, change 

order breakdown and integration with 

BCF Topics using Trimble Connect. 

BCF Topics allows for companies using 

different software to collaborate, with the 

ability for project managers to do multiproject 

follow-up and reporting of 

Topics. To further improve the office-toshop 

communication and transparency, 

Tekla PowerFab 2024 introduces a new 

cut list prioritisation. 

OPEN INDUSTRY STANDARDS 

SUPPORT 

An even stronger alignment with industry 

workflows through the support of open 

standards such as BCF (BIM 

Collaboration Format), allows Tekla 

Structures 2024 users to communicate 

model-based issues among project 

collaborators throughout all project 

phases. In the software, buildingSMART 

properties are supported by improved 

and extended IFC property sets, out-ofthe 

box. 

INTEGRATED WORKFLOWS 

By enhancing interoperability between 

Trimble software, hardware and other 

third-party solutions, Tekla Structures 2024 

delivers new integrated workflows for 

better collaboration. Enhanced rebar 

geometry generation is optimised for 

fabrication, delivery logistics and site 

operations. Data exchange with the field 

and scanning hardware from Trimble 

allows users to retrieve as-built data from 

the site and share accurate designs back. 

Trimble Connect Business Premium - 

included in the Tekla Structures named 

user license - comes with improved 

collaborative workflow capabilities, such 

as model-based status sharing. 

EXTENDED OFFERING FOR NEW 

LICENSES 

Tekla Structures users can now leverage 

three products in one powerful offering. A 

"Named User License" for Tekla 

Structures now includes Trimble Connect 

Business Premium and Tekla Model 

Sharing as an all-in-one solution. Trimble 

Connect Business Premium provides 

access to workflow extensions and 

advanced BIM tools for faster, higherquality 

project delivery. 

INFORMATION SECURITY 

As part of Trimble's ongoing efforts to 

provide enterprise-level security required 

in environments that thrive on data 

sharing, all Tekla products are certified to 

be fully compliant with ISO27001, the 

leading global standard for information 

security management. 

AVAILABILITY AND FREE TRIALS 

Visit the website below to learn more and 

download the Tekla 2024 versions. The 

Tekla Structures BIM software is available 

in a free 30-day trial version that lets users 

test the functionality of Tekla Structures. 

Free trials are also available for the 

structural analysis and design software 

Tekla Structural Designer and Tekla Tedds. 

www.tekla.com/2024 


CASE study 

A workout for BIM 

Jonathan Reeves explains how JRA's use of BIM on a small Vectorworks-based project proved 

invaluable for discussions with the client 

Glazed roof-lights were incorporated to 

ensure a good level of daylighting. 

Iwas asked to design a small gym and 

leisure annex for a private client. The 

site is part of the gardens of a large 

detached house in Charnwood, 

Leicestershire, located behind an 

existing garage/store building and was 

originally a lawn surrounded by high 

hedging to the boundary. The benefits of 

the proposed development were twofold: 

to provide the family with a home 

gym and an entertaining space with 

access to the large private rear gardens. 

The proposed building will enhance the 

property but will also be sustainable, well 

insulated, and heated using an air source 

heat pump, and provide the family with 

the amenity they required without moving 

home. The proposed home gym and 

office created an additional 95 sq m. or 

so of usable floor space. 

The proposed layout was quite simple, 

with links to the existing garage/store to 

the rear, and with the gym and day room 

accommodation facing the rear gardens. 

The proposed design turned out to be 

slightly less than the existing garage, 

with a pitched roof with flat roof middle 

section to keep the overall height to a 

minimum. The existing boundary hedge 

was unaffected by the construction. 

LANDSCAPE AND APPEARANCE 

The proposed construction featured an 

area of paving to match the existing 

terrace, and sympathetic natural 

materials were proposed to match the 

existing house, with a brick plinth with 

stone cills and render above and colour 

coated double glazed aluminium doors, 

all set under a tiled roof. The 

proportions, symmetry and materials 

were selected so that the structure both 

appealed to the eye and sat calmly and 

comfortably in its private setting. 

The proposals also had no effect on 

any other properties in the area, as it is 

located well back from the road, and 

barely visible except for a small portion 

of the roof above the existing garage. 

The whole project was carefully 

developed by me in close cooperation 

with the home-owners, respecting the 

local context and blending it into its 

context. The result was to create a 

contemporary solution to their 

requirements for a personal fitness and 

leisure annex for their family home. 

INCORPORATING SUSTAINABILITY 

The choice of materials was influenced 

by the need to both enhance the 

aesthetcs of the site, while using 

contemporary energy efficient 

construction methods, and technology. 

22 


CASEstudy 

This allowed me to create a highly 

sustainable development, and it is 

intended that local builders and 

contractors will be employed, which will 

benefit the local economy. 

DESIGNED USING BIM 

The building was designed from its 

conception using custom 3D BIM 

modelling which proved to be very 

useful in exploring early-stage design 

options during meetings with the client, 

building regulators and the local 

planning office and relating the model 

to existing site survey data. 

Once it had been accurately modelled 

the initial massing studies of the 

proposed building within its setting 

were also produced. This enabled 

detailed proposals to be developed 

and a basic strategy was developed 

with parametric slabs, walls, doors, 

windows and roofs, allowing plans, 

elevations sections and 3D 

perspectives to be produced directly 

from the BIM model. 

A full set of coordinated drawings and 

images were generated totally from the 

single BIM model. 

When a few changes were required it 

was simple to update the model and 

regenerate the coordinated drawings 

and sections. This was much easier 

than if the project had been drawing in 

2D using traditional means. 

Following the successful design, the 

BIM model was developed to produce 

planning drawings. Schedules and 

information on quantities were able to 

be extracted, and it is planned that .IFC 

model exchange will be used as the 

project develops. 

DESIGN VISUALISATIONS 

Overall, using a BIM workflow on this 

project from inception right through to 

its current stage of development 

presented some unique challenges, 

such as modelling some of the 

junctions between the roof and walls, 

and being able to design and use nonstandard 

or bespoke windows and 

doors. In all, four different design 

options were explored until the client 

was totally happy with the project, 

which was then developed and 

submitted for final planning approval. 

The planning application has now 

been approved and the next stages are 

being planned. 

JRA ARCHITECTS 

I have been a Vectorworks user since 

1993 and have always been fascinated 

by the potential of 3D modelling, 

computer graphics and multimedia in 

architecture to develop and explain 

design ideas. The benefits of being 

able to communicate design ideas to 

clients clearly using 3D models with 

the quality of visuals that can be 

achieved today, or to create 

animations allowing them to explore 

projects themselves, has proved 

invaluable on all of my projects. 

As a long-time user I am also 

fortunate in being able to promote the 

benefits of both Vectorworks Architect 

and BIM, and am looking forward to 

seeing more of the industry adopting 

BIM workflows, and I encouraging them 

to work on collaborative BIM projects 

with other architects and consultants. 

I am also looking forward to exploring 

the incorporation of early stage energy 

analysis using the integrated Energos 

module available in Architect 2024, and 

the virtual reality and BIM motion 

capabilities of Twinmotion 2023 with 

future Vectorworks BIM models. 

I regularly produce a blog on 

Vectorworks and associated topics, the 

most recent of which covers the latest 

developments in Twinmotion, which can 

be seen here: 

https://youtu.be/A30RWnA7sJs 

I am also looking forward to using the 

latest AI Visualizser and VR with 

Vectorworks Odyssey just released in 

Vectorworks 2024 Update 4. 

Websites 

Architecture: 

www.jonathanreevesarchitects.uk 

Vectorworks: 

www.jonathanreeves-cad.co.uk 

Twinmotion: 

www.real-time-rendering.com 



Making Designs Constructable 

Andrew Bellerby explains how DBM Vircon develops constructable manufacturing models from 

engineer's designs 

Designing, constructing and 

operating an asset is a complex 

business. It needs more than one 

model including geometric and much more 

data to cover the whole of the design to 

manufacture to construction to asset 

management processes and requirements. 

Multiply that by the numerous disciplines 

and trades that are contributing to the data 

accumulation and you may start to 

understand the complexities and 

intertwined needs of different stakeholders 

with their information generation, 

consumption and utilisation. 

Why can we not use one model? There 

are numerous reasons. For example the 

design software may not be suited to 

delivering the accuracy and level of detail 

and information required to manufacture 

building components, or provide what the 

asset manager needs. Expertise varies, 

and there are different skills involved in the 

early design of an asset and the knowledge 

required for the detailed design to be 

developed further for manufacturing and on 

to construction. 

The requirement for multiple models is 

a bigger topic, but generally it is a case 

of the right tool for the right job at the 

right time and ensuring decision makers 

and groups of stakeholders are 

empowered with the right information at 

the right time too, allowing them to make 

fully informed decisions. 

Early on in a typical design process there 

may not be too much detail or data 

required - and it may not be wholly 

available anyway. Many decisions and 

design iterations are still being made as the 

model evolves. Design models are exactly 

that, a process with which the architects 

and engineers can look at different options, 

make and implement decisions around for 

example sustainability, aesthetics, space, 

structural integrity and much more. They 

are typically, however, rarely developed into 

a model that can be used for 

manufacturing or fabrication of the 

components that will make up the asset 

Often the specialist subcontractors will 

look to value engineer the project to suit 

their manufacturing processes. They will 

consider modularisation and whether it is 

possible to take some of the construction 

offsite, or whether they can deliver modules 

to speed the erection process. 

As an example, historically the structural 

engineer's model has sometimes been 

discarded and rebuilt for a fabrication 

model, assing the detail with constructable 

components that reflect how they will be 

assembled within the project, and the 

additional temporary equipment required to 

facilitate the construction. The argument 

was that by rebuilding the model you 

gained some "intimacy" with it and start to 

identify potential issues and areas of 

complexity. More recently however we are 

starting to see the geometry and data be 

adopted, developed and evolved so that 

they can be used in manufacturing - but 

there needs to be a vigorous checking 

procedure in place to ensure quality data is 

present and can be built upon. 

At DBM Vircon we have been seeing 

better outcomes for the asset owner and 

the project by working with structural 

engineers and collaborating closely at RIBA 

stages 3 and 4, bringing manufacturing 

and constructability knowledge into the 

design much earlier. Developing a 

"connected model" to LOD 350 or even 400 

for the steelwork or concrete, for example, 

allows the engineers to assess aesthetics 

of interfaces, connections and spatial 

coordination with other trades and services, 

while we bring expertise in manufacturing 

and constructability to the process. Can we 

get a welding rod or a spanner into a tight 

space, and have you considered this type 

of connection instead? Often it doesn't 

make sense to develop the model to 100% 

completion as different manufacturers will 

have nuances as to how they prefer to 

fabricate and our experience is 80-85% is 

enough. The result from this collaborative 

effort is less RFI's when the models go out 

to tender, more competitive and accurate 

tenders, and better information and 

coordination of the different trade models 

and interfaces, to name a few. 

Its not a typical workflow we see often in 

the UK, certainly we are seeing this more 

in Australia and in the US too regularly for 

structural workflows. We are now seeing 

the asset owner/operator requiring these 

type of workflows for multi-disciplinary 

deliverables on projects with high 

complexity and requirements for services 

and modularisation such as data centres 

or healthcare. 

CONSTRUCTABILITY 

A wonderful word, which says it all. For 

example, can components be fabricated 

off-site and consolidated in the 

manufacturing process without affecting 

the structural integrity of the design or 

adding cost? As the detailed design 

develops there is a need to coordinate 

elements of the evolved design which may 

not have been considered. How, for 

example, steelwork connections will affect 

the placement of HVAC or MEP services. 

How may the required openings affect the 

load bearing capacity of beams? Qill I have 

enough access on the construction site wto 

erect the required parts? Can we save 

costs by reducing the amount of site work? 

If so, then prefabrication analysis may 

highlight the benefits. 

Extending the constructability process 

24 



further introduces more complexity. For 

instance, how will we build this on the 

construction site? That requires workflow 

phasing, logistics planning and erection 

sequencing, which is where 4D (time) and 

temporary works planning comes into play. 

Traditionally the crane positioning, going 

back many years, was done using a print of 

the drawing and a pair of compasses and 

the expertise of the planner. I'm sure that 

still happens now too, but things have 

progressed. There are many things to 

consider: height, reach, lifting capacity, 

radius, crane cross-over, utilisation rates, 

minimal requirements to relocate etc. There 

are software solutions available that can 

work within the model environment to assist 

with planning and can save £1000's per 

day. The calculations required still rely 

heavily on the experience of the engineers 

developing the plan and defining an 

optimal crane and lifting strategy - whilst 

not forgetting the health & safety issues 

that also come into play. 

Tools available such as Tekla Structures - 

Crane Tool: How to use (youtube.com) and 

3D Lift Plan Basic Training Video 

(youtube.com) will help analyse the model 

after a crane is positioned and criteria 

added and allow capacity checks or to 

select parts to configure the most suitable 

crane, but as discussed there is still an 

amount of human intervention required to 

identify the potential for any conflicts or 

unseen issues 

With many of the complicated projects we 

work on we are also engaged to model 

temporary steelwork on site, prepare lifting 

diagrams, centre of gravity information, 

lifting lugs and much more to support the 

site teams. The complexity of that could be 

another story on its own. 

KEEPING TRACK OF CONSTRUCTION 

We have often seen animations and 

visualisations used in the early design 

stages to help the asset owner 

understand the design, to assist with 

planning and to inform the public. 

Nowadays they also provide general walkrounds 

and familiarisation with the 

construction site for training purposes and 

health & safety, or rehearsals for complex 

installations and lifts and even 

decomissioning 

As the construction progresses, we are 

now starting to see the introduction of the 

new technologies to deliver real-time 

feedback and visibility, provide scans, 

surveys and drones usage to track 

progress against the program, to verify the 

quality of the construction, and to sign off 

as-built models. This also includes the 

collection of installation and other 

information during the construction 

process, all of which can be crucial in 

delivering data to satisfy governmental 

requirements for the golden thread and 

models that are usable in the 

management of the asset going forward. 

COMPILING ASSET 

MANAGEMENT DATA 

Not only does the asset information have 

to be suitable for the facility manager, it 

also has to be integrated into the various 

asset management solutions that the 

client will be using. If their information and 

project requirements are not encapsulated 

clearly and collected through the 

construction process, then we start to see 

retrospective information models being 

created to match their particular 

requirements and to reflect what actually 

happened on site. It's also important to 

remember that the requirements for an 

asset information model can be very 

different to the requirements for a design 

or a construction model, and therefore 

that model may need to be conditioned or 

post processed for their purposes and to 

create value for asset managers. 

As an example for an infrastructure 

project, a road with multiple lanes may be 

modelled as one part for design and 

construction. However, for an asset 

manager, he would need that splitting 

down into lanes and tagged individually so 

that the conditional status of each lane 

can be mapped. 

THE OUTCOME 

A federated construction model with site 

information included brings together the 

information required to run 4D virtual 

simulations of the construction process, 

including the installation and operation of 

temporary structures, material logistics, 

schedules and accurate costs, providing 

main contractors and owners with the 

ability to assess a project's status and 

adherence to plan. 

Individual trades, subcontractors and 

departments, such as MEP and Accounts, 

have access to the same data in 

associated models, using customised but 

familiar formats and dashboards, to 

complete their tasks. 

DBM Vircon's experience on project 

delivery means they have the experience 

required to create the links underpinning a 

hugely complex process, and to guide the 

design and construction teams through 

manufacturing and construction in a 

collaborative process to deliver better 

project outcomes. 

www.dbmvircon.com 


INTERVIEW 

Twinview 

David Chadwick discusses the rationale behind the launch of 

Twinview with Rob Charlton, the CEO of Space Group 

Ichatted recently with Rob Charlton, CEO 

of Space Group, a group of distinct but 

symbiotic companies that includes 

Twinview, a Lifecycle Digital Twin platform. I 

asked about Space Group's background 

and whether Twinview aims to simplify 

construction or is geared more towards 

asset management. 

Rob provided me with some history to put 

Twinview in context. He started as an 

architect 30 years ago in the North East of 

England and spent a lot of his career with 

the architecture practice SPACE Architects, 

which is still going very strong today, 

working all over the UK for blue chip 

clients, schools, universities and volume 

house builders. 

Around 20 years ago, Rob realised the 

relevance of parametric modelling, which 

was instrumental in digitising SPACE 

Architects' designs and quickly became 

the core of their business. "By using 

Parametric software, we can establish a 

connection between various design 

elements. This allowed us to update plan 

sections, elevations, and schedules 

through a single model instead of multiple 

drawings. It was just mind-blowing for me, 

and people take it for granted now, but for 

somebody that came from the drawing 

board, it was amazing," he said. 

"We were one of the earliest adopters of 

Revit, and in 2007 moved the whole 

practice across to the software", he added. 

"That was also when BIM was starting to 

be discussed and to assist clients in 

implementing a BIM strategy, 

BIM.Technologies were formed - now a 

well-established, London-based company. 

Around that time, BIM.Technologies' 

designers realised that components, such 

as chairs, boilers, and associated data, 

should be readily available to populate BIM 

models, so bimstore was created to host 

and manufacture components." 

"With three separate businesses and 

many clients, a large amount of data was 

being built up, put on a USB stick, and 

given to the clients, but it was never used. 

Without a copy of Revit, authoring software 

or suitable hardware, they couldn't view it. 

So we started developing a cloned version 

called BaseView to help our clients access 

this information, which ultimately became 

Twinview - a simple model viewer to which 

we quickly added native facilities 

management functionality, and is where we 

maintain our client's information today." 

Rob explained. 

Twinview was then developed further in 

2020, adding IoT device functionality and 

intuitive dashboarding to help manage the 

day-to-day operation of buildings. The 

business's principle became to take 

buildings from the design stage through 

construction and into operation. Now, 

everything in the group was geared 

towards making the construction sector 

more efficient - reducing waste, cost, and 

particularly carbon - a personal aim of 

Rob's, as buildings produce 39% of 

carbon emissions. 

"So that's our story," Rob said. "Twinview's 

mission is to understand more about 

buildings and how they operate, help 

reduce carbon and waste, and support our 

clients in improving their experience as 

building users." 

"Whilst that is very relevant to all of us at 

the moment," I put to Rob, "The 

information you are gathering for the 

design stage is somewhat different from 

the information you will need to run it 

afterwards, and you have two sets of 

people - those who are CAD savvy and 

those who will be running it afterwards and 

don't have a CAD background. How do 

you select the information they need to 

manage their assets?" 

"With 30 years in the industry, I 

understand that", Rob replied. "It's not just 

the processes, it's the people, and there's 

a massive disconnect". He explained that 

projects and operations teams could 

sometimes be on different planets, with the 

26 


INTERVIEW 

people delivering capital projects and the 

people running buildings not collaborating 

- even within sizeable real estate 

businesses. Facilities managers would 

rarely have input into the design. 

Rob then explained how Twinview helps 

address these challenges. "We start with 

the end in mind." He explained that at the 

beginning of the project, the client needs 

to be clear about what they want to get out 

of it before they even start putting pen to 

paper. "We ask questions about how 

they're going to run the building. It's all part 

of their Asset Information Requirements 

(AIR), asking what assets they want to 

maintain in the building. What is their 

metering strategy? What sensors are you 

going to install?" 

That gets the asset managers thinking. 

Whereas previously, they knew that they 

would be handed over a finished building, 

now they were being asked about 

individual meter readings, what temperate 

levels the future occupants would need, 

and whether doors and lights needed to 

be maintainable assets. 

All of that is set up at the beginning. As 

the design is developed, the contractor 

provides the technical information within 

the 3D model - for example, a boiler would 

include its technical features and servicing 

details. That's incorporated within Twinview 

and connected alongside associated IoT 

devices. The client is then provided 

access to the 3D model with dashboards 

covering all assets, telling managers, for 

instance, the current state of a particular 

boiler and its energy consumption - with 

all the operational maintenance manuals 

online, instead of digging them out of 

dusty filing cabinets. 

"We call it digital synergy, helping clients 

connect all their building data from day 

one," Rob said. "It's really very exciting. We 

are currently working on using AI to aid 

owners and operators in identifying 

patterns and optimising processes within 

their data, while also working with data 

scientists to help turn multiple years' worth 

of client's building data into insights on 

how their buildings really operate." 

I asked Rob about the importance of the 

Twinview dashboards. "They are central to 

giving you true, real-time visibility on how 

the building operates. For example, with 

today's hybrid working models, you might 

find a room heated to 24 degrees on a 

Friday, but only one person works from that 

room that day. Could you relocate them 

and stop heating the room? The 

dashboards can help you draw relations 

between different data points, such as 

temperature and occupancy." 

"What if they are not using a large room 

effectively and would like to convert it to 

smaller units?" I asked. "How do they 

update the model?". 

"Twinview is perfect if you want to make 

some minor amends to your Digital Twin, 

Rob said. "Asset managers can move 

furniture around and replace boilers using 

a simple workflow. More significant 

changes may require more intervention 

from your architect or BIM consultant. 

However, because Twinview is built on 

multiple federated models, the model 

affected - for example, a tenant model - 

can be easily removed and replaced with a 

new one without impacting the other 

models. Overall, clients can keep the 

model up to date and, depending on their 

skill levels, we can train them to do more." 

"The nice thing," he added, "is you've got a 

complete record of everything that's been 

done on the building. And if you need to 

upgrade any equipment, all the information 

required is available via the bimstore 

integration, which we own and maintain. 

"So asset managers are becoming more 

familiar with using a 3D model and 

associated data and documents," I 

suggested, "particularly due to the Golden 

Thread requirements?" 

"Absolutely", he replied. "Just a few years 

ago, facilities managers would turn up to 

multi-billion pound real estate companies 

with a lever arch file of information. 

Although things are maturing, the level of 

sophistication is still relatively low. So we 

developed Twinview to be easy to use, 

such as getting up-to-date drawings and 

accessing maintenance manuals - basic 

but beneficial - and as their expertise and 

confidence increases, they can start using 

the more advanced features and get even 

more value from it." 

"However, maintaining your information is 

the biggest challenge with the Golden 

Thread. You need the structure and tools to 

log everything but the flexibility to evolve if 

building regulations change, and Twinview 

offers that perfect blend". 

Lack of space prevents me from adding 

more of this interesting chat here, but we 

will closely examine Twinview's technical 

and operational aspects in our next issue. 

www.twinview.com 


EXHIBITIONnews 

7 things to see at Digital Construction Week 

The UK's leading event for innovation and technology in the built environment, Digital Construction 

Week (DCW), returns to ExCeL London on 5-6 June 2024 

Explore the future of AECO, get 

inspired and connect with other 

industry innovators at Digital 

Construction Week (DCW). At this year's 

event attendees can learn about the 

latest trends in digital construction, from 

BIM and AI to robotics and sustainable 

solutions, and meet the companies that 

are driving architecture and design, 

construction, engineering, and 

operation forward. You will be able to 

discover how to use new technology to 

improve your projects, teams, business, 

and the built environment. 

The free-to-attend expo features two days 

packed full of of inspiring content, 

including 300+ speakers across 10 

stages, 120 hours of CPD accredited 

education, 150+ exhibitors, live demos, 

workshops, networking drinks, and much 

more. If that isn't already enough to 

convince you to 

attend, here is a 

round-up of 

the top seven things you can expect to see 

at this year's DCW. 

1. NEW: Robot Demo Zone 

Experience live demonstrations of stateof-the-art 

technologies at the Robot 

Demo Zone. A selection of DCW's most 

pioneering exhibitors will be 

showcasing the latest advances in 

construction robotics in action in a 

mock construction environment. 

Get up-close with tech ranging from 

mobile robots to articulated robotic 

arms. And learn how these cutting-edge 

solutions are automating processes, 

increasing safety and reducing 

operating costs. 

2. Start Up Village 

The Start Up Village returns once again for 

2024, in partnership with the C-Tech Club 

and sponsored by Eleco. This area is the 

go-to spot on the show floor for 

technologies and concepts that have the 

potential to solve the industry's biggest 

challenges. Head over 

to meet the 

teams behind 10 emerging brands with 

boundary-breaking ideas for AECO, 

including Voyage Control, Optimise-AI, 

Sytrix and Konstructly. 

3. NEW: Table Talks Theatre 

Introducing Table Talks - a brand-new 

theatre space focused on round tables 

and workshops. Take a seat and join live 

debates on a variety of topics including 

AI, people and change, carbon reduction 

and much more. 

4. NEW: Construction Disrupted 

Podcast live 

The Construction Disrupted Podcast will 

be recording live in DCW's new dedicated 

studio. Presenter Peter Sumpton will be 

interviewing some of the best in the built 

environment for a revealing look at 

innovation and technology in AECO. Drop 

by and listen in or sign up for a link to all 

the episodes. 

5. Information Management Exchange (IMx) 

The Information Management Exchange 

(IMx) is back, in partnership with nima and 

sponsored by the UK BIM Framework. This 

year it's bigger and better 

28 


EXHIBITIONnews 

than before, with a dedicated classroom 

built right on the show floor. Sessions will 

be longer, more in depth, and fully 

interactive. Don't just sit and listen - get 

involved, share your views and find the 

answers you're looking for! 

6. DCW Happy Hour 

Raise a glass with fellow AECO 

innovators at DCW Happy Hour. Head to 

the DCW Lounge at the end of day one to 

grab a beer, juice, or mocktail and blow 

off some steam. This is your opportunity 

to network with speakers, peers, and 

colleagues, and make new connections. 

7. BIM Networking Drinks 

Another exciting networking opportunity 

is the BIM Networking Drinks, sponsored 

by DCW, Revizto, Soluis, Digital Guerrilla, 

Edify, and Innovating Futures. These 

social drinks will take place on Tuesday 

4th June with the venue being confirmed 

soon. But don't worry, the location will be 

easy to get to following day one of DCW, 

just a few stops from the ExCeL on the 

Elizabeth Line. 

Places are limited and invitations will 

be sent out closer to the event. There's 

no need to worry if tickets sell out 

though, as a whole host of after-hours 

networking events are also taking place. 

Keep an eye on the DCW socials for 

more information. 

DISCOVER THE INNOVATIONS 

TRANSFORMING THE BUILT 

ENVIRONMENT 

As always, the latest solutions from 150+ 

leading built environment brands will 

make up the central exhibition at the 

show. DCW acts as a one-stop shop for 

you to learn how to use new technology 

to improve projects, assets, teams and 

business directly from the companies 

driving AECO forward. 

The disruptive technologies and 

solutions set to be on display include 

digital twins, augmented reality, 

information management, automation 

and AI, drones, robotics and much more. 

Meet the teams behind the tech and 

discover how these solutions can help 

your business be more efficient, 

collaborative, connected, sustainable 

and profitable. 

An array of inspiring brands have been 

confirmed to exhibit at the ninth edition of 

DCW. These include Autodesk, Bentley 

Systems, Bluebeam, Causeway 

Technologies, Glider, IFS UK, Mission 

Room, MSite, Paperless Construction, 

Procore, Sir Robert McAlpine, Symetri, 

Strata, Trimble, Twinit, Xinaps, YardLink, 

and many more. 

LEARN AND GET INSPIRED IN THE 

EDUCATION PROGRAMME 

It's not just in the central exhibition where the 

latest industry innovation will be in the 

spotlight. There are also 10 theatres located 

around the show floor, running free-toattend 

talks, informative panels discussion, 

interactive workshops and more. 

Hear from 300+ industry experts and 

get up to speed on the latest ideas 

shaping architecture and design, 

construction, engineering, and operation. 

Speakers from Bryden Wood, 

Skanska, Laing O'Rourke, Restoration & 

Renewal (HoP), AECOM, John Lewis & 

Partners and Heathrow are just a few 

examples of big names who were part 

of the 2023 line-up. 

The theatres are focused on some of 

the key areas shaping the built 

environment. These include information 

management, geospatial, digital 

transformation, people and change, 

asset management, net zero and more. 

Expect to be inspired and informed by 

high profile presenters and curated panel 

discussions covering the industry's most 

pressing issues, exploring new ideas and 

actionable insights. The full programme 

will be announced in April. 

GLOWING REVIEWS 

Gary Cowan, Head of Digital 

Construction at Kane Group comments 

on his visit to last year's show: "Digital 

Construction Week brings all the major 

movers and makers of the worldwide 

construction industry together under one 

roof, for knowledge sharing, networking, 

and an opportunity for everyone to grow 

off each other professionally. An essential 

event that should not be missed." 

Elaine Allen, Industry Lead for the Built 

Environment at Microsoft, echoed this, 

saying: "A great event showcasing the 

latest innovative technology and trends 

within the built environment. The 

seminars covered diverse topics led by 

expert speakers. I look forward to 

attending again next year." 

REGISTER FOR DCW 2024 

Don't miss your chance to get ahead and 

experience cutting-edge technologies, 

ground-breaking innovations, and a 

thought-provoking education programme 

at Digital Construction Week. 

The event will take place on 5-6 June 

2024 at ExCeL London. Register for your 

free trade ticket: 

eventdata.uk/Visitor/DigitalConstructionW 

eek24.aspx?TrackingCode=DCW300. 

To keep in the loop with show updates, 

please visit: 

www.digitalconstructionweek.com or 

follow the event on social media. 


CASE study 

Northern Excellence 

Collaboration delivers a centre of excellence for digital and creative learning 

Ajoint collaboration between Bond 

Bryan and Simpson Haugh has 

delivered a state-of-the-art city 

centre campus for The Manchester 

College and UCEN. City Campus 

Manchester combines higher and further 

education on a single site, providing a 

centre of excellence for digital and creative 

subjects, including performing arts, music 

and media, hospitality and catering, as 

well as computing. 

INTEGRATION AND COORDINATION 

The collaborative nature of the project 

meant that the architects, engineers and 

specialist consultants worked in their 

preferred software with everything 

coordinated via IFC. As a result designs 

were brought together from a combination 

of Archicad, Revit, Vectorworks, 

Navisworks and 2D files, coordinated 

using Solibri. 

Responsible for the external design and 

the main atrium space, Simpson Haugh 

modelled in Revit. Meanwhile, Bond Bryan 

works in Archicad and was responsible for 

the internal massing of the college. From 

Stage 4, Bond Bryan took responsibility for 

the full technical designs to prepare the 

plans for construction. 

Brad Stenson, Chartered 

Architectural 

Technologist at 

Bond 

Bryan explains the process: 

"When we started working together, some 

of the other consultants using different 

software were unsure of whether they 

would be able to coordinate with an 

Archicad model. But it didn't hold us back 

at all - everything went very smoothly. 

"Many people who are used to Revit don't 

know how advanced Archicad is for 

working with other software. In fact, it's 

very straightforward to import IFCs directly 

into Archicad. Before joining Bond Bryan, I 

had more than four years' experience of 

working with Revit - but I definitely prefer 

working with Archicad now." 

STUDENT-LED DESIGN 

Careful consideration was given to ensure 

a distinct identity for The Manchester 

College and UCEN learners - by creating 

separate external entrances and internal 

zoning of the facility while maintaining a 

connection at the core. 

A large central courtyard acts as a social 

hub for the college, providing a vital area 

for students to meet, relax and create. The 

courtyard also eases 

orientation, 

maintaining a visual relationship between 

the differing disciplines. 

Inspired by classical courtyard buildings, 

the bespoke timber-clad atrium creates a 

fresh and welcoming central hub for the 

college punctuated by the 'Jewel Box' 

theatre and restaurant area at its centre. 

The two-tiered terrace is linked by an 

inhabited staircase that incorporates 

seating, with an overhead arrangement of 

north facing skylights, maximising internal 

daylight whilst also avoiding overheating. 

MODELLING TOOLS 

Several features within Archicad helped 

to speed up the technical design 

process and ensure accuracy within the 

model. For example, graphic overrides 

meant it was easy to distinguish between 

different elements of the design that 

looked very similar. 

"A striking design feature in the internal 

atrium space is a timber colonnade, 

which is made up of multiple different 

columns and beams which were 

individually crafted," says Brad. "We used 

the graphic override to colour code 

these, which meant we could easily see 

how many of each type of column or 

beam there was. It made it much easier 

for the carpenter to understand and 

prevented any costly mistakes. 

"Archicad's composite tool 

also saved the design 

team significant time. 

30 


CASEstudy 

This tool enables designers to create a 

wall or floor slab with multiple elements 

such as insulation, plasterboard, lining and 

cladding and then apply it to multiple areas. 

Brad continues, "With the composite tool, 

once we've created the build once, and we 

change one element, for example the 

thickness of the insulation, it automatically 

updates throughout the model.We used the 

curtain wall tool extensively which saved a 

lot of time. The design included multiple 

window types which we were able to label 

A, B, C before reapplying where needed. 

Some people find the curtain wall tool 

difficult to get to grips with, but I would 

suggest persevering - it can be huge time 

saver and very useful." 

COORDINATION AND CLASH 

DETECTION 

The four-storey building encompasses 

many complex aspects which all needed 

careful coordination. Bond Bryan used a 

coordination cube system, an approach 

developed by Bond Bryan Digital, which 

ensures everything is contained within 

3x2x1 metre cubes starting from the A1 

coordinate. This enabled the team to 

double-check the position of all elements 

to ensure 100% accuracy. 

Incorporated in the building are TV, 

radio and sound studios; two 

professional standard theatres; 

commercial kitchens and a 40-seat 

restaurant and bar run by hospitality and 

catering students, as well as a double 

height art and photography studio. 

This complexity meant the mechanical, 

electrical and plumbing (MEP) files were 

very large, so the team brought the 

information into the model for clash 

detection and coordination, but then 

removed it for ease and speed once any 

issues were resolved. 

Using Solibri model checker, the team ran 

the clash detection process three or four 

times to eliminate any coordination issues. 

VISUALISATION WITH VR 

"Our clients really like Graphisoft's BIMx 

and often ask for BIMx files to help 

visualise the designs," explains Brad. "For 

The Manchester College, we exported the 

design as a BIMx file and used a VR 

headset to virtually stand in the main 

atrium space. Prior to this exercise, many 

people couldn't visualise the scale of the 

building. This virtual reality approach really 

helped everyone to understand how the 

building would look." 

INFORMATION EXCHANGE 

The first phase of the campus was 

constructed with a steel frame. Bond Bryan 

liaised with the steel frame manufacturer 

and structural engineer and sent files to the 

fabricator using IFC. "We worked closely 

with the manufacturer and in addition to 

IFC, shared information via mark-ups and 

comments on drawings on areas such as 

the stairs so they could easily see the top of 

the steel heights," says Brad. 

"In addition, Bond Bryan worked on the 

construction site one day a week 

throughout the build. This enabled us to 

oversee the work and ensure everything 

was built to specification. In addition, it 

meant any queries from the contractors 

could be answered straight away." 

Once the building was completed, Bond 

Bryan handed over design information in 

the form of DWGs, IFCs and the BIMx 

model, all extracted directly from the 

Archicad model. 

DELIVERING BREEAM 

Built close to the Manchester Arena, the 

new campus has served as a catalyst to 

rejuvenate the whole surrounding area. 

Brad concludes: "This was a challenging 

project. However, through close 

collaboration with the contractor and 

design team, we have achieved a high 

quality, beautifully detailed and 

functional building for the college. 

Moreover, we are delighted that the 

building has been awarded BREEAM 

Excellent certification, reflecting our 

commitment to sustainable design." 

With the first phase complete and open 

to students, Bond Bryan is now working 

on the technical designs for the second 

phase of the project, which will provide 

50% as much space again with the 

creation of more IT, teaching and 

classroom space. Construction is due to 

start in the Autumn of 2023. 

www.graphisoft.com 


YOUR GUIDE TO 

5 

7 

3 

1 

2 

21 

22 

23 

24 20 25 26 

27 

29 

SCOTLAND 

FIFE 1 

GlenCo Development 

Solutions 

Contact: Jack Meldrum 

Tel: 01592 223330 

Fax: 01592 223301 

jackm@glenco.org 

www.glenco.org 

ACMK 

ABERDEENSHIRE* 2 

Symetri Ltd. 

Tel: 0345 370 1500 

info@symetri.co.uk 

www.symetri.co.uk 

ABCDEGHIJKLMNOPQSTX 

Larbert 3 

30 28 

19 

15 11/16 

6 

13 

17 

9/10 

18 

12/14 

*Location guide 

not 100% accurate 

TMS CADCentre 

7 Central Park Avenue 

Central Park 

Larbert 

FK5 4RX 

Tel: 01324 550 760 

info@tms-scotland.com 

www.tms-scotland.com/autodesk 

ACELHNO 

IRELAND 

DUBLIN 5 

Paradigm Technology Ltd 

Contact: Des McGrane 

Tel: +353-1-2960155 

Fax: +353-1-2960080 

dmcgrane@paradigm.ie 

www.paradign.it 

ACMGKL 

SOUTHWEST 

NEWBURY 6 

RWTC Ltd 

Contact: Richard Willis 

Tel: 01488 689005 

Fax: 01635 32718 

richard@rwtc.co.uk 

www.rwtc.co.uk 

A M 

N.I 

BELFAST 7 

Pentagon Solutions Ltd 

Contact: Tony Dalton - Training 

Services Manager 

Tel: +44 (0) 2890 455 355 

Fax: +44 (0) 2890 456 355 

tony@pentagonsolutions.com 

www.pentagonsolutions.com 

ACDEGKL 

TRAINING COURSES OFFERED KEY: 

AUTOCAD AND LT: 

AUTOCAD P&ID TRAINING: 

AEC/BUILDING SOLUTIONS: 

3D MODELLING $ ANIMATION 

AUTOCAD ARCHITECTURE: 

FM DESKTOP: 

GIS/MAPPING: 

REVIT: 

VAULT FUNDAMENTALS 

AUTODESK VAULT FOR INVENTOR USERS 

A 

B 

C 

D 

E 

F 

G 

H 

I 

J 

VISUALISATION: 

AUTIDESK CIVIL: 

INVENTOR SERIES/MECHANICAL: 

NAVISWORKS TRAINING: 

PRODUCT UPDATE COURSES: 

INVENTOR PUBLISHER: 

GOOGLE SKETCHUP: 

CHARACTER ANIMATION: 

AUTODESK SIMULATION: 

FACTORY DESIGN SUITE: 

AUTOCAD ELECTRICAL: 

K 

L 

M 

N 

O 

P 

Q 

R 

S 

T 

X 

For further information about authorised CAD training or to advertise on these pages please contact: 

Josh Boulton on 01689 616 000 or email: josh.boulton@btc.co.uk

SOUTH/EAST 

HERTFORDSHIRE 9 

Computer Aided 

Business Systems Ltd 

Contact: Gillian Haynes 

Tel: 01707 258 338 

Fax: 01707 258 339 

training@cabs-cad.com 

A C D E K H 

BUCKINGHAMSHIRE 10 

Causeway 

Technologies Ltd 

Contact: Sue Farnfield 

Tel: +44 (0)1628 552134 

Sue.Farnfield@causeway.com 

www.causeway.com 

A C D E K 

BERKSHIRE 11 

Cadpoint 

Contact: Clare Keston 

Tel: 01344 751300 

Fax: 01344 779700 

sales@cadpoint.co.uk 

www.cadpoint.co.uk 

A C D E K 

ENFIELD* 12 

TRAINING 

BERKSHIRE 16 

Mass Systems Ltd 

Contact: Luke Bolt 

Tel: 01344 304 000 

Fax: 01344 304 010 

info@mass-plc.com 

www.mass-plc.com 

A E F 

HAMPSHIRE 17 

Universal CAD Ltd 

Contact: Nick Lambden 

Tel: [44] 01256 352700 

Fax: [44] 01256 352927 

sales@universalcad.co.uk 

www.universalcad.co.uk 

A C M E K H 

MILTON KEYNES 18 

Graitec - Milton Keynes 

Contact: David Huke 

Tel: 01908 410026 

david.huke@graitec.co.uk 

www.graitec.co.uk 


CAMBRIDGE 19 

THE NORTH 

MANCHESTER* 20 

Symetri Ltd. 

Tel: 0345 370 1500 




NEWCASTLE* 21 

Symetri Ltd. 

Tel: 0345 370 1500 




YORKSHIRE 22 

Graitec Bradford 

Contact: Isobel Gillon 

Tel: 01274 532919 

training@graitec.co.uk 



NORTH EAST 23 

Graitec - Durham 


Tel: 0191 374 2020 




LANCASHIRE 24 

QUADRA SOLUTIONS 

Contact: Simon Dobson 

Tel: 01254 301 888 

Fax: 01254 301 323 

training@quadrasol.co.uk 

www.quadrasol.co.uk 

A C M K 

YORKSHIRE* 25 

Symetri Ltd. 

Tel: 0345 370 1500 




SOUTH YORKSHIRE 26 

THE JUICE GROUP LTD 

Contact: Sarah Thorpe 

Tel: 0800 018 1501 

Fax: 0114 275 5888 

training@thejuice.co.uk 

www.thejuicetraining.com 

A C D E K R 

Symetri Ltd. 

Tel: 0345 370 1500 




Symetri Ltd. 

Tel: 0345 370 1500 




SOUTHHAMPTON 13 

Riverside House, Brunel Road 

Southampton, Hants. SO40 3WX 


Tel: 02380 868 947 




CONTRAL LONDON* 14 

Symetri Ltd. 

Tel: 0345 370 1500 




OXFORDSHIRE 15 

MIDLANDS 

NOTTINGHAM 27 

MicroCAD - Nottingham 


Tel: 0115 969 1114 




NORTHAMPTONSHIRE 28 

AIT Spatial Ltd 

Contact: Philip Madeley 

Tel: 01933 303034 

Fax: 01933 303001 

training@aitspatial.co.uk 

www.aitspatial.co.uk 

A C D E F G K L 

BIRMINGHAM 29 

CHESHIRE 30 

Excelat CAD Ltd 

Contact: Vaughn Markey 

Tel: 0161 926 3609 

Fax: 0870 051 1537 

Vaughn.markey@ExcelatCAD.com 

www.ExcelatCAD.com 

B N 

Man and Machine 

Contact: Robert Kenny 

Tel: 01844 263700 

Fax: 01844 216761 

training@manandmachine.co.uk 

www.manandmachine.co.uk 

A D I J M N O P Q X 

Armada Autodesk 

Training Centre 

Contact: Steven Smith 

Tel: 01527 834783 

Fax: 01527 834785 

training@armadaonline.co.uk 

www.armadaonline.co.uk 

A D E M K H

INDUSTRYfocus 

Digital Product Passports 

Lars Fredenlund, managing director of Cobuilder explains how the 

Construction Products Regulation will push forward the adoption of 

Digital Product Passports 

Since its adoption in 2011, the 

Construction Products Regulation 

(CPR) has set out methods and 

criteria for assessing and expressing the 

performance of construction products 

and conditions for using the CE marking, 

which ensures they meet safety, health 

and environmental requirements. 

As part of the regulation, manufacturers 

are obliged to adhere to harmonised 

standards when placing construction 

products on the market. EU Member 

States must do the same when setting 

requirements for their performance. 

These standards have been drawn up by 

european standardisation bodies to create 

a common technical language which can 

be used throughout the construction sector. 

They enable industry professionals, public 

authorities and consumers to compare the 

performance of products from different 

manufacturers in different countries. 

There are several benefits to this 

regulation. A construction product can 

be placed legally on the market in any 

Member State and then traded on the 

EU's single market, while users of these 

products can better define their 

performance demands. However, the EU 

Commission has identified 

shortcomings with existing regulation, 

which include the need to better support 

both the green and digital transition 

taking place in the construction sector. 

MOVING TOWARDS GREENER 

AND MORE DIGITAL PRACTICES 

The formal legal process is well 

underway and is expected to be finalised 

in Autumn 2024. The revised CPR 

emphasises the need for digital solutions 

to reduce existing administrative 

burdens, including a construction 

products database or system. The EU 

has also highlighted that the revised CPR 

will need to align with circular economy 

principles - promoting the sustainability, 

durability and recyclability of products. 

Digital Product Passports (DPPs), in 

particular, have been specified by the 

European Commission as solutions to 

meet these demands across sectors by 

the implementation of Ecodesign for 

Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR). 

DPPs deliver information on construction 

products "including safety information, 

instructions of use and the declaration of 

performance and conformity." 

These DPPs will also enable various 

stakeholders to view a detailed breakdown 

of a product's environmental data, 

ensuring transparency and traceability 

across all construction stakeholders - from 

manufacturers through to building 

contractors and end users. They will 

provide comprehensive and standardised 

information about a product throughout its 

entire lifecycle, with the aim of simplifying 

and enriching sustainability practices 

within construction. 

The Digital Product Passport will play 

an important role for end users. It will 

make it easier to calculate the 

environmental impact of buildings, 

facilitate green procurement, document 

the content of hazardous chemicals, 

ensure compliance with building codes, 

or client requirements. Another benefit is 

that market surveillance actors can 

access the information in a digital format 

instantly via mobile devices, and thereby 

ensure the reliability of construction 

products used in the European market. 

STANDARDISATION IS THE KEY TO 

MAKING DPPS EFFECTIVE 

For DPPs to be created and 

implemented effectively, they need 

structured product data. This is data 

that has been standardised, clearly 

defined and is easily searchable. It must 

also be machine readable and made 

accessible across the European 

construction industry, for all 

organisations to benefit from. 

The latest discussions around the CPR 

revision suggest the introduction of a 

common European data dictionary to 

enable this - which will introduce a 

"common digital language" and ensure 

companies working across borders are 

using the same standardised data 

framework. 

Many construction stakeholders are 

already leveraging common systems and 

classification methods, to meet their 

individual needs. These systems simplify 

the measurement of construction 

materials, creating a single source of truth 

for everyone involved in a construction 

project to draw on the same data. 

However, most of these systems are 

not interconnected or standardised - 

which is why a common European 

framework is required. This will make it 

easier for all organisations, regardless of 

location, to understand product data 

and collaborate on projects, while 

ensuring interoperability across different 

software and systems. 

As sustainable and circular practices 

become increasingly embedded in 

construction - driven by new legislation 

such as the revised Construction 

Product Regulation - Digital Product 

Passports will be key enablers to show 

organisations sustainability-related 

information about a product. They will 

be most effective, though, when industry 

stakeholders find common ground in 

managing and sharing product data. 

www.cobuilder.com 

34 


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AWARDS CEREMONY 

7TH NOVEMBER 2024 

CENTRAL LONDON 

www.constructioncomputingawards.co.uk 

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