Connecting workflows
Many of my clients indicate how difficult it is to digitise the construction process, especially where it concerns cooperation between the office and the construction site. We often forget that the core of digitisation lies in correct information exchange. It makes no difference whether it concerns communication between different teams or with a subcontractor/co-maker, everyone requires up-to-date information at the right time. In addition, the processing and access to this information is extremely important. You want to avoid unnecessary ambiguity and static because every stakeholder can access all the information. Client demands are also increasing in this respect.
Nowadays, design is increasingly done in 3D; it’s the first step in the digitisation process. Then the 3D models are plotted on physical 2D drawings at the construction site. Working with two different truths separates the workflows leaving them unconnected. The result? Twice the work, high failure costs and unclear planning.
BIM Software
In recent years, software applications to support construction sites have multiplied like wildfire. They often offer solutions that focus on a specific task. For example, running through checklists and reporting safety issues. These software applications are good in certain areas, but the workflows and saved data are not connected to the office where the BIM model is maintained.
Autodesk Construction Cloud
An important requirement of software is that it must be user-friendly. Intuitively retrieving or adding information should be possible in just a few clicks. In short, a solution for optimal information exchange between project participants must meet the following requirements:
- One software platform with integrated point solutions.
- A central document management system.
- Safety on the construction site.
- Standardised workflow integration.
- Access to up-to-date information at any time.
- Reporting options (one versus several projects).
- User-friendly.
- Online and offline availability.
Autodesk Build
The answer? Autodesk Build. This software offers all these functionalities as well as optimum support to digitise the construction site. I dare say that Autodesk Build is the heart of the Construction Cloud.
One of the most important new features of Autodesk Build is PlanGrid. Personally, I think PlanGrid is one of the best construction applications around. This software allows one to work together with real-time access to drawings, punch lists, documents and daily reports. It also allows you to add markers and quickly share construction drawings, photos and reports with the entire project team and it is available in both desktop and mobile versions. So information can be added directly on the construction site and everyone can access information in the BIM model in real time. Customers already working with this software reported a construction time reduction of 50%, a project construction cost reduction of at least 5%, a productivity increase of at least 20% and a reduction in safety and quality issues of 20%. In addition, I am convinced that Autodesk Build will be an ideal tool to meet the strict requirements of the new Dutch Quality Assurance Act for Construction.
With Autodesk Build, the possibilities are endless. Questions like “Where should I start?" or “How do I implement the software?" are understandable. I would be glad to help you explore how the Autodesk Build solution can be tailored to your work processes. In this webinar ,I went deeper into the functionality of Autodesk Build. Interested? The recording is ready for you.
More information
Want to know more about Autodesk Build or have any questions after reading this article? Feel free to contact us.
