Digital construction (BIM)
How digitalisation and AI are revolutionising the construction sector
In the age of digitalisation, the construction sector is changing rapidly. Building Information Modelling (BIM) has established itself as the centrepiece of this transformation – and has revolutionised the entire construction process from planning to implementation. Mettler utilises state-of-the-art technologies to ensure efficiency, accuracy and sustainability in a wide range of construction projects.
BIM: The new standard in digital construction
The property and construction sector is in the midst of one of the most radical transformation processes in its history. The digital revolution is affecting the entire construction process, from the design phase and planning through to the realisation and management of a project. Driven by innovative technologies, changing customer needs and a growing focus on sustainability, digital solutions are now being used alongside traditional working methods or replacing them entirely. This reduces the risk of errors, makes construction more efficient, conserves resources and improves quality. At least, that's the theory.
In practice, Mettler is one of the pioneers of this computer-aided revolution and is working to turn the promises of digital tools into built reality. Using state-of-the-art technologies, the company is developing customised solutions to create high-quality, sustainable projects of lasting value for and in collaboration with its clients.
How Building Information Modelling (BIM) makes construction more efficient
Building Information Modelling (BIM) replaces conventional planning and drawing methods by digitally modelling buildings, infrastructure and outdoor spaces. To do this, the system uses a synchronised database that contains all relevant planning information and is accessible to all project participants. Three-dimensional building models are created by the computer, which are separated according to construction phases, storeys or trades – including geometric data, cost information, deadlines and material specifications.
Access is even more direct with cloud-based "open BIM". All those involved are able to see changes in real time and adjust individual parameters directly in the system. This makes it easier to visualise planning content and identify problems at an early stage, which in turn enables building owners to make more informed decisions.
Building owners also benefit from BIM
BIM makes the planning of even the most complex construction projects more transparent and efficient, while also improving the quality and accuracy of execution. This reduces the planning risk for the client: instead of just one, different design variants can be run through, visualised and analysed – which ultimately results in more informed decisions and the optimum solution for a specific building project. This is becoming all the more important as technological, regulatory and social factors are making construction increasingly complex. This complexity can no longer be managed without the effective use of digital methods and automation. Agile project management and lean management principles can in turn help to react flexibly to changes, increase efficiency and optimise the entire construction process.
BIM - advantages at a glance
Efficient management and documentation of complex processes
More informed decision-making
Improved design quality thanks to simulation options
More transparent and synchronised data basis
More direct communication and collaboration within the team
More precise performance, cost and deadline forecasts
Fewer planning errors thanks to visualisation and early error detection and therefore also more sustainable
BIM changes the role of everyone involved
The further development of digital tools and AI-supported methods is also changing the tasks of developers and planners. As AI tools take over ever more analytical tasks and make increasing complexity manageable in the first place, human experts' capacity is freed up for more creative tasks and sound decisions.
Architects and planners benefit from detailed and precise models that ensure higher design quality and accuracy. Collaboration on cloud-based data platforms and with shared BIM models makes it possible to recognise and resolve conflicts and planning errors at an early stage.
Engineers and specialist planners can more effectively integrate and coordinate their trades and technical systems in the construction project. The shared database also makes detailed analyses and simulations easier – and thus promotes innovation in planning and implementation.
Construction companies and contractors benefit from a precise database that enables accurate material costing and efficient resource utilisation. Schedules, construction processes and all aspects of construction logistics can be optimised using visualisation (4D planning), preventing construction delays and reducing costs.
The future of construction with BIM
In a project developer's usual way of working, BIM means a profound cultural change – and continuous learning. This is the only way to truly utilise the advantages of BIM in order to ...
... increase efficiency through optimised workflows and collaboration
... increase quality through detailed planning and continuous quality control
... improve costing through accurate forecasting and effective control
... master complexity through better coordination and risk management,
... promote sustainability through efficient material utilisation
... improve communication and transparency through shared data platforms.
Digital construction and BIM-supported methods are revolutionising the construction industry by improving efficiency, quality and cost-effectiveness. Clients and building owners benefit from transparent and precise planning; all parties involved in construction benefit from better collaboration, innovation and optimised processes. Mettler is therefore already focussing on state-of-the-art technologies and continuous learning in order to build successfully into the future.
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We are in the midst of a digital transformation in the construction industry. Building Information Modelling (BIM), which enriches 3D models with comprehensive data, the use of modern communication and collaboration platforms and increasing automation and robotisation in the construction process, are the first steps in this transformation. Thanks to the rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI), we will go even further by increasing process efficiency and reducing waste. Although it's still only early days, the roles of developers and architects are already changing. The integration of digital technologies will not only revolutionise construction itself, but also redefine job profiles in the construction industry.
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Robert Axt
Immobilienentwickler
