The BIM Jedi (formally the Revit Jedi)

The New Normal.

2020-06-15T16:12:00.002-07:00

As the AEC industry starts to emerge from social distancing and the impact that Covid-19 has had on our industry, the way we do business has drastically changed. Do not expect how we do business to go back to how things were done pre- April 2020.

Social distancing has changed how we engage with our clients and how our projects are completed with a project team that is no longer centred around one "office" location.

Utilization of Cloud Collaboration, Visualization, and access to data has been thrust upon many design firms is a short period of time, impacting their traditional workflow and processes.

Now is the time that Design firms need to effectively capture this change in workflow, to maximize the benefits and complete the integration of new processes.

Now is the time to do this, while the lessons learned are still fresh in people's memories. 

Make this, the new normal.

Supporting the next generation of Industry members

2020-05-08T08:45:00.003-07:00

During this challenging time, we must support our industry youth.   

With the turndown in employment opportunities, the ability for students to finance their continued education is greatly impacted. 

Students typically use the summer to finance their upcoming education costs, with the current restrictions student employment opportunities are limited, and without employment opportunities their ability to return to school later this year decreases. 

The impact that Covid-19 will have on our students will no only be felt by the industry in general, but also by the universities and colleges who will see a decline in returning students. 

Students need to stay connected to the AEC labour market so they can save money for their continued education and gain experience and knowledge related to Digital Project Delivery.  Support our industry by hiring a student. 

At AEOS Consulting we have a program specifically designed to support Design Firms hiring students.

Check out our DPD program for further information.

 https://aeosconsulting.ca/dpd-workflow-program  

These are Crazy Times!!

2020-03-30T11:08:00.000-07:00

I think we all agree these are extraordinary times.

With all non-essential workers being asked to stay home, people are faced with 2 choices: Wait for everything to “go back to normal” or Re-invent the way that we participate in the world.

AEOS Consulting was born out of a shared vision of a kinder, more efficient and more flexible AEC environment. An environment where both people and results matter equally.

A place to thrive.

As a community of creators, all of us in the AEC world have an opportunity to take actions that will benefit our businesses, ourselves, and our communities now and in the future.

Check our website to see how AEOS is primed to help your firm thrive remotely.

https://aeosconsulting.ca/extraordinary-times

Stay safe. Together, apart, we will get through this.

Scott

10 Tips for Working From Home

2020-03-24T01:00:00.000-07:00

I’ve been fortunate to work and run my business from home for several years.

Initially, it was a challenge, and given the current situation with Covid-19 and the need to self-isolate, many design firms are enabling their staff to work from home.

Here are my top 10 tips on how to manage this transition and avoid the pitfalls and challenges of working from home.

1. Make space

Set aside a space that will become your office. Don’t set up on the kitchen table. Aside from the bad ergonomics, it’s an imposition on your life outside working hours. If you have a spare room, that’s great, if not, pick a quiet corner where you can place a desk and make it your “working hours” space.

2. Get organized

Set yourself up as you would previously. Have the same stationery on hand, your coffee cup, printer, phone etc. Set up your files and resources. By being organized you’ll feel more productive and define the space as a “work” environment. Research the right tools enabling you to connect with the office and your colleagues.

3. Get into a routine

When I first started working from home it was very easy to get distracted and side-tracked with chores around the home…. I had to do the laundry, the dishes, mow the lawn, water the grass, vacuum… all ll before I could focus on my work. Figure out a schedule for when you’re "at work", and stick to it.

4. Prepare the kids

Have activities planned and prepared for the kids the night before so you have a strategy for the day. I understand that having small children at home can be a challenge! Don’t be so hard on yourself or them: this is an adjustment for all of you. Once a routine gets established it will become a lot easier. It’s ok to check on the kids, spend 5 or 10 minutes frequently making sure “all is ok”. Spending that time is more constructive than you becoming frustrated.

You might also want to make it clear to your family and friends that you work during the day and even though you are at home, it’s not ok to pop by for a chat, or invite you to golf for a 2pm tee time. They wouldn’t do this while you're at the office so they shouldn’t expect it to be any different now that you are working from home.

5. Your hours

Your job may require you to work 8 hours, that doesn’t mean you have to work 8 hours straight. Spread out your hours in a way that makes sense for your life. I found this makes me more productive and relieves some of the pressure of working from home.

Avoid the “I’ll just finish this” trap.

It’s a balancing act, there is a time to shut down the computer and finish for the day. Personally, I have strict hours (I have no kids at home) so I have a start time in the morning, I stop for lunch at noon for an hour and I have an “end-time” at the end of the day when I close the door to my office and I essentially “leave work”.

6. Enjoy the commute

My commute is brutal, down the hall, often have to wait at the intersection due to traffic (the dogs laying on the floor), around the corner and park my butt in my chair. When I first started to work from home, my commute to work reduced by 45 minutes… that’s 90 minutes of the day that I got back. Take that time and invest it in yourself: go to the gym, go for a walk, enjoy breakfast, this is a perk of working from home.

7. Get dressed

Seriously. It’s easy to work in your pyjamas but it’s not conducive to a “working” mindset. Dress the same as if you're going into the office.

8. Be social

Even though you work from home, you can still interact and engage with your colleagues. Video conferencing is the best way to do this. I use MS Teams for this and it’s a great way to communicate with my team. We frequently video call and this increases the connectivity and collaborative environment, similar to that which you would get in an office environment.

9. Enjoy

It’s a great privilege to be able to work from home. Not only can it be a very productive environment, but also an enjoyable one.

Get yourself set up the right way and enjoy the freedom that working from home provides!

Supporting the Architecture and Engineering Design Industry

2020-03-23T11:20:00.000-07:00

During these challenging times, we all need to do our utmost to continue supporting commerce and our economy.

Fortunately, the Architecture and Engineering design industry has the provisions to support remote collaboration, allowing project team members to work from home.

Setting up staff to work from home can be challenging for firms who have limited knowledge or resources. At AEOS Consulting, we can help set up your projects and staff, allowing them to continue production. Be it CAD or BIM projects, the resources are available to support the continuation of your business.

Call or email AEOS today to discuss how we can support you during this challenging time.

www.aeosconsulting.ca

Profitability is a Byproduct of Good Work

2020-03-18T00:30:00.000-07:00

A successful client of ours recently made this statement during one of our meetings: “Profitability is a byproduct of good work.” This got me thinking about how businesses approach being profitable.

In business, there is a high priority to maintain profitability; without it, businesses do not survive.

However, how businesses are profitable can determine how long they will be profitable.

At AEOS Consulting, we can help future proof your organization by supporting your Growth and Development strategy.

Quite often we see companies make budget cuts to resources and limit spending and activities (such as training), all in an effort to reduce costs and improve profitability.

No.. of course it doesn’t. If the process is broken, then the action of making further cuts, potentially eliminating the possibility of making positive change is not going to help! Cuts being made by large companies in an effort to retain the viability of a business are usually made too late. These sacrifices - often at the cost of employees - are made in haste and in an effort - often too late - to stay in business.

Why does this happen?

This happens because there is a lack of foresight and a level of complacency in business operations. We can't afford to make changes because it will impact our (short term) profitability.” These statements are a result of fear of change and fear of risk.

As an instigator of positive change, I often hear rationale such as “we don’t have the budget” or “we can't change how we currently do things”. Budget is often a big factor, and I understand that being prudent of expenditure is important for the success of any organization, this needs to be balanced with the desire for progress and investing in the infrastructure of the organization. This infrastructure should include investing in the capabilities of staff as well as process and workflow resulting in improved efficiency.

The challenge!

The challenge for any organization is to balance the cost of internal development and implementing positive change and innovation with maintaining a status quo.

At AEOS we typically see three types of clients:

Type 1: Early Adopters Innovative, progressive, recognizes a need to “keep up” with industry developments to retain market share. Recognizing the need for change is a key factor.

Type 2: Late Majority Less progressive but if made aware of inefficiency can be receptive to improving process. Recognizes the benefit of improving the skills of staff. Cost is a key factor.

Type 3: Laggards Processes are old and out of date, training is limited or unavailable. Any significant changes to workflow would likely have a significant pushback from both management (due to the disruption to production) and staff (it falls outside of their comfort zone).

From the above three scenarios who do you expect will be still in business, 5, 10 or 15 years from now?

Future proof your organization

Through dedicating time and resources to internal development you can mitigate not only the impact of disruption to production but also the cost of falling behind. Progress is an integral aspect of the organization's Growth and Development Strategy; anticipating and planning for change is the key, and by doing so you will be in a very good position to weather any challenges your business may face and see positive growth and development.

By producing good work efficiently, with staff that is happy, within a culture that encourages improvement, profit comes more easily. Plan for change, anticipate costs so you can budget for it, and invest in the future profitability of your business.

Utilizing BIM for Small Business - BuildEx Vancouver

2020-01-29T01:00:00.000-08:00

Please join me on Wednesday, February 12th 2020 at BuildEx Vancouver for a TechCentric Session titled:

W11 – Utilizing BIM for Small Business
Innovation and Technology; Project Delivery & Management

How can small to medium-sized businesses utilize Building Information Modelling (BIM) so to play in the same “sandbox” as the bigger corporations?

In today’s built environment economy, having the ability to access and utilize BIM is crucial to the success of any business. This can often be challenging for small and medium organizations due to the lack of resources and budget. However, participating in BIM projects does not necessarily mean small to medium businesses are automatically excluded. Using “off the shelf” tools to take advantage of BIM is a cost-effective (often free) way of these businesses the ability to participate in the Architecture Engineering and Construction BIM / Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) economy.

This session will provide attendees with understanding, tips and tricks to allow you to initiate, collaborate, contribute and utilize VDC on BIM projects. We will explore the typical processes when engaging in a BIM project and assess some of the more cost-effective (free) tools available that allow you to participate, contribute and utilize BIM information and data, moving your business forward.

9:45am–10:45am
$40 Early Bird, $50 Full Price
February 12th

https://www.buildexvancouver.com/en/features/techcentric.html

From the Smart Project to the Smart City

2020-01-27T01:00:00.000-08:00

Join me on February 4th and 5th at the Pinnacle hotel in Vancouver for the 2020 CanBIM Regional Session titled: From the Smart Project to the Smart City

Integration and Collaboration Across Policies, Processes and Technologies

In the shift towards a low carbon built environment, new technologies, digital processes, fabrication and efficient assembly methods are transforming the way buildings are designed, built and operated. The “internet of everything” – IoT, Big Data and more - is connecting people, systems, buildings and communities in ways that will disrupt traditional policies, workflows and relationships.

As the procurement, production and operation of buildings and cities moves from analog to digital, project teams will need to collaborate fully and effectively. Join us in Vancouver to learn more about new methods, technologies and relationships that will impact how we deliver smart, climate-friendly buildings and cities in the future.

VANCOUVER
February 4-5, 2020
Pinnacle Hotel, Vancouver Harbourfront
1133 West Hastings Street Vancouver British Columbia
#CANBIMVAN20

For full agenda details click HERE

Is your business ready for a New Decade?

2020-01-20T01:00:00.000-08:00

Get 2020 insight into your Digital Design Workflow

AEOS Consulting can help you improve Project Profitability

Bespoke BIM Management Whether firm-wide, a single studio, or a single project, we specialize in custom planning for implementation and support including strategic planning, matching process workflows to tasks and goals, further leveraging your Building Information Modelling. White-Glove Service for Everyone Our focus is on your continued success in the constantly expanding world of digital project delivery. Consulting on all aspects of project delivery from team structure to content development, supporting your firm in all aspects of project delivery while managing the complexity of the solution and abilities of your project team. BIM Maturity Assessment Our BIM Maturity Assessment is a comprehensive analysis of your current situation and BIM maturity. Our process involves collecting the relevant information that we need to analyze your project delivery workflow. From this, we establish a baseline of maturity that is used to set target levels of adoption. To discuss how we can improve your project profitability contact us by visiting our web site at www.aeosconsulting.ca

Model Integrity

2020-01-13T08:39:00.001-08:00

Model integrity is becoming more crucial as projects are becoming more complex and model data integrity is a crucial aspect of deliverable quality.

This is a simple checklist where the auditor can verify model content and process making sure that the Building Model is constructed in accordance with your standards and project requirements. This checklist is part of a protocol to maintain model integrity. 

Verifying Model Integrity periodically throughout the project reduces the risk of incorrect modeling causing misinformation and/or additional unnecessary work.

Validation of the model provides a guide to address any potential model issues, the intention being that the recipients of the model know the file is fit for use and will not require additional work to fit within the project framework. 

A Model Audit should be carried out periodically throughout a project to verify model content integrity by the Project Model Manager as well as by the BIM Manager.

A copy of this audit is to be kept on file as well as sent to the BIM Manager upon completion. It's a basic two-page checklist. 

Here's a sample of some of the items:
Is the Project Information Data completed
Has True North and Project North been established and used correctly
Is the Standard Project Browser being used properly
Complete spell check (you will be surprised)
Is all text in upper case
Delete unnecessary Reference Planes and 3D views
Purge the "coordination" model
Revisions, Site Instructions, C/O’s been completed according to the Standards
Are Annotation styles consistent with  Standards
Are Dimension styles consistent with Standards
Are Drafting Lines being used where the Linework Tool would be better (and Visa Versa)
Are Line styles consistent with Standards
Is the Level of Detail in the model appropriate for the scope of work
Are objects on the Correct Workset
Is content approved by Model Manager
Some of these are pretty basic and common sense but it's always good to be able to check it off and know that it's been done. 

Integrity in Modeling is key to quality, risk mitigation, and general good practice!

A New Year, a New Decade

2020-01-02T01:00:00.000-08:00

A New Year, a New Decade... Opportunity for Positive Change

The beginning of a New Year is always a good time to reflect on your performance over the twelve months to look at ways to improve how to manage and deliver the work you do. Having an outside expert perspective providing you with clarity can be invaluable in making the right adjustments to Digital Project Delivery Workflows.

At Aeos Consulting we have the expertise in making improvements to your Digital Project Delivery Workflow that will start your New Year off on the right foot. Our BIM Maturity Assessment process evaluates 5 key areas comprising 20 specific deep-dive reviews of the design and production processes. This results in a detailed extensive report outlining the level of BIM Maturity and recommendations for short, mid and long-term improvements.

Our BIM Maturity Assessment will identify areas where simple improvements result in great benefits not only in cost-saving but also in the quality of your deliverables.

Get clarity on your current processes, workflows and 2020 insight on how to make a positive change for the decade ahead.

To find out more on how Aeos Consulting can save you time and money on your BIM projects follow the link to How We Do It or reach us directly at Contact Us

2019-12-20T09:17:00.004-08:00

Season's Greetings from Aeos Consulting. and the BIM Jedi.

On behalf of Aeos, we wish you a Happy Holidays and a prosperous New Year.

2020 is going to be an exciting year for Aeos as we deliver unique tools and processes designed to help firms navigate the complex process of delivering projects.

If you wish to learn more about how Aeos can make your projects a success, please go to our web site aeosconsulting.ca to learn more.

Strengthening The Digital Chain Through Collaboration - CanBIM Calgary Event

2019-11-28T11:23:00.000-08:00

Join us and discover how digital technologies are taking the built environment into the future. Be part of the discussion, as we look at the benefits, challenges, and opportunities of digital technologies used in architecture, engineering, construction, owner and operator industry. Hearing from a diverse cross-section of the industry ranging from high-level planning to boots on the ground installation.

Calgary
December 5, 2019
at: SAIT Aldred Centre 1301 16th Avenue NW Calgary AB, T2M 0L4

#CANBIMCGY19

For More information and to REgister Click HERE

Overcoming Implementation Failure through Change Management

2019-10-31T00:00:00.000-07:00

Implementation changes in software, workflow, and process can be very challenging. One of the biggest hurdles is overcoming the resistance to change.

Resistance to change is perfectly natural, we typically do not like to change the processes we are comfortable with, even if we know they can be improved and, in some cases, actually detrimental to our success.

As human beings, we are typically reluctant to step out of our comfort zones. However, it is only when we do step out of our comfort zone that we have the opportunity to grow and develop.

As a result, managing the process of change is as important as strategically planning the actual change.

Here are my tips on change management.

Change Management

Managing change is the only way to successfully implement change.

Change Management requires an understanding of the process involved with change, the expectations, solutions, impacts, and consequences.

Change Initiative

Identify an opportunity
Define the scope and objectives
Design the solution
Develop the process
Implement the solution

Change is often a complex and difficult process that requires the knowledge and understanding of how to successfully implement change to the staff. By diagnosing employee’s resistance to change and developing an outline of a communication strategy that minimizes disruption encourages personal development and maximizes employee retention.

Leading successful change requires new ways of thinking and unique tools and skills. Using the ADKAR method of Awareness, Desire, Knowledge, Ability, and Reinforcement we can manage the change process.

Managing Change. Image courtesy of Prosci Inc.

The ADKAR method outlines each step of the framework for change:

· Awareness of the need to change Desire to participate and support change Knowledge of how to change Ability to implement changes to day to day operation Reinforcement to maintain change.

The ADKAR model is useful for:

Diagnoses of employee resistance to change
Assisting employees to transition through the change process
Creating a successful action plan does both personal and professional advancement
Development of a change management plan for employees

Overcoming Failure

Employees are often resistant to change not because they are opposed to a new method or process but because no one has made a compelling case for the need for change and provided them with a safe environment to undertake change.

Effective communication from the top down is crucial to successful change, staff needs permission and clear direction for change to be successful.

Providing on-demand support and regularly scheduled “check in’s” instill a level of confidence in the staff to continue the implementation process while providing the confidence to overcome any perceived issues.

What is Aeos?

2019-10-25T00:00:00.000-07:00

I often get asked... "What is Aeos?"

Aeos is a consulting firm with a focus on improving how the Architecture, Engineering, Construction (AEC) industry delivery projects to their clients (Owners).

Today’s design firms are challenged with meeting the evolving needs of their clients. Constraints such as time and budget are not uncommon and have been the “norm” since…forever..!

Today’s clients/owners and their projects are demanding more, they are demanding efficiency in construction due to social responsibility combined with the ever-increasing pressure to economize construction and operational costs. Essentially we have to design, construct, and operate buildings more efficiently.

Design consultants are pressured to deliver more with less. Increased complexity of scope due to the demand from clients to be completed in less time, with reduced fees and less staff.

The AEC industry is evolving from a traditional process to one of a holistic approach in delivering our built environment as opposed to a linear architectural approach to design. Architects and the entire design team now have work symbiotically with the entire project team, not only design and construction but also the owner, supplier, trades, etc. Digital

Project Delivery has revolutionized the traditional process of how we design, construct and operate buildings. This change has been instigated by many factors including the evolving use of technology in the design and construction process, such as Building Information Modeling, sustainability pressures (social responsibility) and economics.

Aeos has arisen as a result of this change in the traditional process of delivering design to one of Digital Project Delivery where workflow incorporating technology plays a crucial role in the day to day production of the delivery of today’s complex projects.

With the rapid development of Building Information Modeling (BIM), and the demand for improved BIM utilization to meet the project demands, design firms are struggling with the implementation and utilization of BIM. This struggle is exacerbated by the rapid development of technology and the increasing complexity of projects and the “forcing” of the use of technology within a traditional process, resulting in in-efficiency, increased risk, and reduced profitability.

The goal of Aeos is to provide guidance and support to the AEC industry in improving how we deliver projects in the age of Digital Project Delivery through managing changes in the workflow required by today's project demands.

Our goal is to help firms successfully deliver projects efficiently, effectively and profitably. We help design firms become profitable, improve competitive marketing advantage, retain key staff and design a production workflow that enables them to improve utilization, reduce risk and meet the needs of the project.

Aeos can provide essential services concentrating on digital project delivery production include;

Digital Practice Consulting
Workflow and Process Analysis
Project Triage
BIM Implementation
Application Training
And much more.

If your organization is struggling with adapting to a Digital Project Delivery Workflow give Aeos a call to discover how we can help your firm reach it’s potential.

You can reach Aeos at info@aeosconsulting.ca or find out more on our web site www.aeosconsulting.ca

As to the name…. Aeos is the mythological horse that drew the Sun Charriot along with three other horses across the sky for the Greek sun God Helios.

The analogy here is Aeos Consulting helping you succeed in helping drive forward your goals, by bringing together a team of experts.

Discover the potential of your BIM

2019-10-23T00:00:00.000-07:00

BIM (Building Information Model) just does not describe the complex process of today’s process of delivering AEC projects.

BIM is the foundational platform of how we deliver projects and it’s the basis upon which we build layer upon layer of data and information often using multiple applications. However, I feel when we talk about BIM were just talking about the model, we're forgetting about the “I” in BIM, the Information and the potential of BIM beyond design and drawing documentation.

When we talk about BIM the emphasis should be on the information required to execute and manage a project, this is where the “i” in “BIM” is a crucial factor, otherwise, we're just using BIM as a design tool and underutilizing the vast potential of this amazing resource. This is where designers are Building Modeling rather than Building Information Modeling.

I’ve come across design studios that promote themselves as being BIM capable only because they're staff is using a 3D Modeling application to generate a model for the development of construction documentation and visualization, they are under-utilizing the full potential of the model.

Sure, BIM can help you convey the design intent to your clients, however, this is a gross underutilization of this powerful tool.

“Discover the Potential of your BIM”

Utilize the information within your model to provide value-added information to your client. Easily automate processes such as schedules, quantification, design options, building performance elements such as solar studies, lighting analysis, and heating and cooling effects. All of which is simply achieved by utilizing the functionality of the application with no other need for additional software (see ROI on software investment)! This is the “low hanging fruit” of BIM utilization. It’s the After Design Utilization of BIM that we can improve upon.

Simple deliverables of data and information to the client (owner/operator) can provide additional value to the project and your client. Government authorities such as Infrastructure can utilize BIM for city planning, strategic development, asset management and much more (Smart Cities). Direct to fabrication is becoming more common and soon BIM submissions to authorities will be commonplace.

As the industry matures so does the need of our deliverables, our BIM Maturity needs to keep inline with the growing needs and demands of our industry, if we don’t keep up, we fall behind and then it becomes more challenging to catch up.

Its time for a new acronym.

“It’s not BIM, its Digital Project Delivery”

Personally, I’ve been using the term “Digital Project” to describe the whole process of design, performance analysis, cost analysis, visualization, construction sequencing, pre-fabrication, building operation and maintenance and asset management…etc.. Phew! This entails a lot more than just the collaborative design process we refer to as BIM.

The point I’m trying to make is that the AECO industry is growing and evolving rapidly, new technologies, processes, and uses of BIM are becoming apparent every day at every level demanding a higher utilization of Building Information Modeling.

Look at ways you can improve on the utilization of your BIM, and see your business grow!

Digital Innovation and Delivery

2019-08-12T13:54:00.000-07:00

UBCO and CanBIM welcomes you to Kelowna, the heart of the beautiful Okanagan for this opportunity to meet and hear AECO technology leaders and senior management executives who are driving business value through adopting digital innovation strategies that are transforming how we deliver projects.

Digital Innovation and Delivery

Digital innovation is fast becoming the cornerstone to drive business value in many owner-design-construction – Architecture, Engineering, Construction, Owners and Operators (AECOO) organizations. It is changing how the industry documents, fabricates and constructs both public and private sector project and is crucial to not only understanding how these changes impact the AECO. This workshop provides a unique opportunity to learn more about the current state of the industry regarding digital project delivery and the use and impact that technology plays throughout all aspects of the industry.

Conference Agenda

7:30 Registration opens

8:00 – 8:45 Meet & Greet Breakfast

8:45 – 9:00 Welcome Address – Scott Chatterton, CanBIM Director

9:00 – 10:00 Clint Undseth - Keynote

10:00 – 10:45 Helen Goodland - Coalescing innovation in Canada’s construction industry

10:45 – 11:30 Coffee Break

11:30 – 12:15 Mark Masongsong - New tech, tools, and opportunity: Navigating disruption and innovation in AECOO

12:15 – 1:15 pm Lunch Break

1:15 – 2:00 Allan Partridge - BeyondDesign & Construction - the Future of Making Buildings

2:00 – 2:45 Andrew Sharman - Improved Outcomes Across the Construction Continuum – An Owners Perspective

2:45 – 3:00 Coffee Break

3:00 – 3:45 Tanya Doran -The culture of innovation: collaboration driving efficiency

3:45 – 4:45 Executive Panel Discussion

4:45 – 5:00 Closing remarks

5:00 – 7:00 Networking Reception

Date: Saturday, September 21, 2019

Time: 7:30 AM-7:00 PM

Location: UNC 200 (2^nd Floor in University Center Building) 3272 University way, UBC, Okanagan, Kelowna BC

Early- Bird Price: $200.00* until Aug. 31, 2019

Regular Price: $225.00*

Student Price: Free, Limited seating available.

^*No cancellation policy

All prices are subject to applicable taxes.

For registration please visit;

https://gcrtc.ubc.ca/events/

Confident in your BIM Deliverable?

2019-08-05T01:00:00.000-07:00

How confident you are in the data and integrity of your Building Information Model (BIM)? And how confident you are in the integrity of the data and model accuracy when sharing your BIM with others on the project including the client?

What's your Model Confidence Level?

Model confidence can vary according to the skills of your project team, specifically your model content developer’s skills and abilities in being able to meet what the project demands. These factors greatly impact the level of model confidence you may have and the Level of Development (LOD) of the BIM as required.

A high level of confidence is required for projects that require a high level of complexity and data management such as hospitals, industrial facilities, high-rise buildings, etcetera. Having a high level of model confidence is critical to any organization wanting to mitigate risk (which is everyone).

Developing model confidence requires four key points.

Skill. The ability and knowledge to build the model accurately and confidently. An accurately built model (built in accordance to the required LOD) provides confidence in the model and the data. A poorly constructed model with missing elements, inaccurate assemblies, poor modeling standards, and practice, does not instill confidence in your model. Modeling skills can be addressed by assessing your staff's abilities and addressing weaknesses in skills and knowledge (skill gap analysis).

Standards. Model standards and best practices provide your staff with guidance and direction. Integrating standards into the workflow will guide the project modeling team in how to model accurately and establish a level of consistency across the organization.

QAQC Process. Having great modelers and great standards are not enough. To stand behind your product you need to be able to verify that you meet a minimum quality standard. A process of verification through checklists needs to be implemented, also critical is the assurance that the flow of Information meets the intended recipients, a clear workflow can facilitate both requirements. A QAQC process should be integral to the project delivery workflow. Often a project may have its own project specific QAQC requirements which should be taken into consideration.

Project Requirements. What the project demands should be figured out early in the project and well documented as part of the Project Execution Plan. Caution should be taken to not over model or under model, both will impact not only the quality of the project but also the profitability of the project.

These four elements are integral to establishing an organization's high level of model confidence. From the junior modeler to the CEO, Model Confidence is the responsibility of all and is key to the success (reputation) of any organization.

Model Integrity Checklist

2019-07-29T14:41:00.000-07:00

I wrote a post a couple years ago on Model Integrity and developed a checklist for checking your BIM. Model integrity is becoming more crucial as projects are becoming more complex and model data integrity is a crucial aspect of deliverable quality.

BIM Integrity is a topic I will be writing more on soon, so keep posted!

I have recently revised this list so I'm re-posting this topic.
This checklist is part of a protocol to maintain model integrity.

This is a simple checklist where the auditor can verify model content and process making sure that the Building Model is constructed in accordance with your standards and project requirements.

Verifying Model Integrity periodically throughout the project reduces the risk of incorrect modeling causing misinformation and/or additional unnecessary work.

Validation of the model provides a guide to address any potential model issues, the intention being that the recipients of the model know the file is fit for use and will not require additional work to fit within the project framework.

This checklist allows for issues to be tracked and resolved in a timely manner as they arise.

An Audit should be carried out periodically throughout a project to verify model content integrity by the Project Model Manager as well as by the BIM Manager.

A copy of this audit is to be kept on file as well as sent to the BIM Manager upon completion.

It's a basic two-page checklist.
Here's a sample of some of the items:

Is the Project Information Data completed
Has True North and Project North been established and used correctly
Is the Standard Project Browser being used properly
Complete spell check (you will be surprised)
Is all text in upper case
Delete unnecessary Reference Planes and 3D views
Purge the "coordination" model
Revisions, Site Instructions, C/O’s been completed according to the Standards
Are Annotation styles consistent with Standards
Are Dimension styles consistent with Standards
Are Drafting Lines being used where the Linework Tool would be better (and Visa Versa)
Are Line styles consistent with Standards
Is the Level of Detail in the model appropriate for the scope of work
Are objects on the Correct Workset
Is content all approved by Model Manager

Some of these are pretty basic and common sense but it's always good to be able to check it off and know that it's been done. I'm sure there is much more, please feel free to send me your comments and I'll post them to this blog for everyone to view.

Integrity in Modeling is key to quality, risk mitigation, and general good practice!

What’s your Workflow?

2019-07-22T16:09:00.000-07:00

Recently I’ve been working on updating my production workflow documentation, this is the documentation of the workflow required to deliver architectural projects, specifically Building Information Model (BIM) projects. A workflow is a roadmap that anyone can follow at any point on the path to project delivery, providing information through a graphical workflow diagram, associated documents, and resources for each phase of project delivery. It is a very clear, precise document that provides staff with a clear understanding of what they need to do. By providing clarity, direction, and purpose the results are improved job satisfaction, increased production (utilization) and greatly improved risk mitigation due to improved quality and clarity of tasks.

An effective workflow is extremely valuable. However, it is only valuable if it is being utilized, communicated, enforced and kept current to meet the rapidly evolving demands of your clients and the industry.

A workflow is an essential tool for any design process, however, I rarely see clear production workflows being used within the AEC industry. This may be because the main focus is on the Architecture of the building and communicating the design intent to the client rather than the production of the Architecture. As a production focused person I’m more interested in how we deliver the design as part of our contractual obligations, our deliverables are fairly consistent, therefore our process and workflows are also fairly consistent. Sure, each project is a prototype and has its own unique set of circumstances and requirements, but the process of production is common and can be based upon the same workflow framework. This lack of workflow framework is where many design firms lose profit and greatly increase risk.

The Solution: Spend time looking at your workflow, go through each step by step process from procurement to handover. You already have the information as you are already delivering projects, it just requires clarification, documentation, and fine tuning so your workflow can perform better.

A high performing workflow = A high performing project team

Your workflow should include the tools you need to accomplish a task or deliverable, this would include the forms, checklists, documents, best practices and execution plans that clearly describe the expectations and outcomes (deliverables) at each phase, and, importantly, clarification on the project team roles and responsibilities so your team know the “who, what and when” of a project.

Successfully implementing a workflow requires a change in culture, it demands effective communication and total buy-in from leadership, otherwise, it is doomed to failure. Implementation of an effective workflow requires a sense of urgency by all for it to be adopted successfully and therefore secure your successful future if it is maintained and enforced effectively.

Changing Culture by Changing Workflow

Make your workflow clear and easy to follow, make the resources current and readily accessible. Experience has proven that if it doesn’t work…change it. Often I find that there are too many processes that do not work and too many redundant resources inhibiting success, typically they’re too complex, ineffective or simply out of date. That doesn’t foster change, it inhibits change.

This process is not simple and takes planning, time, effort and investment, but it’s an investment in the sustainability and continued viability of the organization. Recently I’ve chatted with a number of people struggling with this in our industry and I often hear the comment “we're losing our key performers”, and “our best people are leaving, even if we offer an incentive package to stay”, what remains are those that are complacent and are quite happy to maintain the status quo… a process that is broken.

Change the Workflow, Change the Culture

Where Has Our Sense of Urgency Gone?!

2019-07-15T00:30:00.000-07:00

Are we so risk-averse that we are actually inhibiting our own progress?

We analyze, assess, review, meet, discuss, email, meet again, document… all in the name of due diligence. And then we promptly fail on implementation. We spend so much time and effort ensuring that our next step is the right one we actually fail to take the step!

This is due to the lack of Urgency!

Without a sense of urgency, we lack passion, inspiration, energy and we fail to inspire in others a sense of urgency. Without inspiration people become complacent, lackluster becomes evident in their production and deliverables, efforts to implement new initiatives become half-hearted attempts that are doomed to fail at launch or at best, very poor participation and adoption.

We start initiatives such as implementing a new process or introducing new software and by the time we have completed the “due diligence,” we've lost momentum, enthusiasm and the sense of urgency, all of which are critical to the success of implementation.

I’m not encouraging anyone to start an initiative without looking into the details before jumping in with both feet, you do have to make sure it’s the right fit. However, far too often I see initiatives or implementations fail because there is no sense of urgency, meetings get pushed, information is slow to come in and development of a comprehensive report can take months.

I am advocating for speeding up the process by setting deadlines, milestones and instilling a sense of urgency.

With today’s evolving technology its prudent not to agree to a long-term commitment, if you are not planning to review your position again in 12 to 18 month you are doing yourself, and your company a dis-service (that’s another topic).

Research, review, ask for recommendations and make a decision, then initiate. It will succeed only if you have the belief and the enthusiasm to fully implement the initiative…with your sense of Urgency!

And I kept this post short so I can get back to some urgent business!

Efficiency in the AEC Industry – Going Beyond BIM

2019-07-10T00:00:00.000-07:00

The Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry need to realize efficiency in delivery and production, the current in-efficiencies result in poor project performance, loss of profits and increased risk. There are three distinctly separate entities that must come together to perform the function of delivering our built environment projects; A: the Client, B: the Designers, and C: the Constructors. All of which are operating as separate entities, yet entangled at the demand of the project. Some project delivery contract types try to “facilitate” collaboration, but essentially the same can be achieved with the right guidance, thorough simple willingness to collaborate from all stakeholders. The industry is demanding innovation, this has been proven time and time again by the adoption and integration of technology over the past decade. The rate of change required to maintain not only market participation, continued profitability and even competitive advantage is increasing rapidly. The industry is due for a change, not only are our clients demanding changes in time and cost but also social responsibility and market demands for sustainable, cost-effective buildings are ever increasing. Today's customers are more in tune with their needs and wants, which has a significant impact on today’s built environment market. BIM has certainly facilitated this evolution in the AEC industry, improving the design, collaboration, project management, and construction processes, however, the next revolution is upon us. It is time for us to meet the needs.. no, the demands… of our customers. Much like how the smartphone has evolved since 1992 from a personal communicator to today’s intelligent devises, our built-environment needs have evolved from “dumb” building to one that now interacts and meets the technological expectations of today's generation. This is evident in the growing interest and popularity of Smart Cities. Silos are crumbling, disciplines are relying on the exchange of information and data from all aspects (some yet to be defined) of the project delivery process. Cross collaboration and engagement starts earlier than ever before in an effort to meet the clients demands of time, budget and intelligent deliverables. Now is the time to dive deeper into Building Information Modeling, and “mainstream” the already capable functionality and utilization of the Building Information Mode beyond the simple model and data used for construction. This wealth of information is traditionally left on the table after construction, and subsequently underutilized by the client. Today there exists a wealth of programs, utilities, technology and applications that can utilize the BIM during and beyond design, construction, procurement, operation and maintenance, utilizing data that is readily accessible as a result of the design and construction process. The demand is there, expectations of clients are growing as they understand the benefits of utilizing this wealth of readily available information. Our job, as industry participants and representatives, is to embrace this revolution and not let the fear of change prevent us from continued participating in this exciting, evolving industry.

Addressing Affordable Housing Crisis Through Digital Innovation and Technology

2019-07-04T11:09:00.000-07:00

Undoubtedly one of the biggest challenges facing Canadians today is affordable housing.

To address this issue cities will require commitment, investment, and perhaps most of all, innovation.

The design, construction and operation industries, which have been built on traditional workflows, are poised for disruption. New technologies, digital processes, fabrication and efficient assembly methods are no longer on the horizon, but are already showing us we can design, construct and operate the housing and infrastructure we need, not only faster and cheaper, but more sustainably as well.

Join us in Toronto to learn more about new methods and technologies that will impact how we deliver affordable housing and cities in the future.

CanBIM announces that registration is now open for the CanBIM Regional Session where we will address the Affordable Housing Crisis Through Digital Innovation and Technology
This event will be held at the Toronto Hyatt Regency on September 25th and 26th 2019.

For further information visit the CanBIM Events web site: HERE

Registration is now open: Click HERE to register

CanBIM Regional Session - Vancouver, February 2019

2019-01-30T15:22:00.002-08:00

Come meet me at #VANBIM19 CanBIM Regional Session;

Digital Innovation - Driving Business Value in Design, Construction & Operation, in Vancouver on February 6th and 7th http://ow.ly/qif630nwfzA

Digital innovation is fast becoming the corner-stone to driving business value in many design-construction-owner organizations. Whether digital innovation is enhancing, transforming or reinventing business models and operations, it is well established that investing in digital innovation is fundamental to success. Organizations across the real estate and construction supply chain - from owners to suppliers - are adopting digital strategies that leverage such disruptive technologies as cloud-based collaboration, IoT, automation/robotics, AR/VR, machine learning/AI, to improve productivity, quality and customer experience.

Our Vancouver Session will host technology leaders and senior management executives who are driving business value through adopting digital innovation strategies.

Register Here

Check out BIMDaily Blog for all future BIM info: https://bimdaily.blogspot.com

Season's Greetings and Happy Blog Reading

2018-12-21T23:59:00.000-08:00

As we come near the end of another year I would like to thank you for participating in my Blog, whether as a reader or a commentator. I appreciate your input and the value you place on reading what I'm compelled to write... either my opinion or a helpful tip ;-)

For those of you who are long-time readers, you would have noticed two changes over the recent years.
One; the slowing down of blog postings
Two; the changing of the trend of "helpful Revit tips" and "how too's" to more on the topic of BIM management and leadership

This Blog has evolved over the past 8 years (or more) as my career in the AEC industry has also evolved.
I first started this Blog, initially titled "The Revit Jedi", as a method to share information and knowledge as part of my role as Autodesk Certified Instructor. It served a great purpose in informing my students and a broader audience of novice Revit users and evolved into topics on Building Information Modeling in general including BIM utilization and process, hence the title change to BIM Jedi in 2015.

As I write this on December 21st 2018, Winter Solstice has just passed (in Canada) signifying the changing of seasons.

I too feel it is time for a change.

The BIM/Revit Jedi has served me well. From my Blog statistics, it has also served and informed others from around the world including Australia, UK, France, Ukraine, Netherlands, Spain, and Africa, to only name a few.

Earlier this year I reached the milestone of over 1 million page views over 585 blog postings and at it peaks over 30,000 page views per month.

Reaching this milestone planted the idea of retiring this Blog, I may have an oppertunity to pass the "BIM Jedi" on to a new generation (Padawan BIM Jedi) and re-invigorate the content back to the original intent of sharing BIM knowledge while broadening the scope to applications that further utilize BIM. I'm still working on it ( ;-)

I am not Retiring (I can't afford to do that!) I do plan on writing more on the topic of Leadership and Process and posting to either a new Blog or more frequently to my LinkedIn profile.

I hope you can follow my journey into this next chapter and evolution of not only my progress but also that of the BIM Jedi.

Thank you for reading and I truly hope you gained some helpful information on your journey to becoming a BIM Jedi Master.

Sincerely,

Scott Chatterton
Formerly known as the BIM Jedi

Recent update: check out BIMDaily Blog for all future BIM Blogging info: https://bimdaily.blogspot.com