MARCH 2023CONSTRUCTIONTECHREVIEW.COM8IN MYOPINION Emerging Technologies, BigData and BIM. A West Coast Canada Perspective.BIM requires us to relearn and advance what we know. Alvin Toffler said "The illiterate of the 21st century will not be those who cannot read and write, but those who cannot learn, unlearn, and relearn."BIM has evolved from the first concept in 1975 when Mr. Eastman composed an article in the AIA Journal(Eastman, 1975).Eastman describes a concept for BDS (Building Description System) where a team at Carnegie-Mellon University created software providing general element description models. Today's BIM has matured significantly into robust data rich 3D models. In the beginning the forward-thinking concept of BDS was a simple thought experiment in utilizing Computers to develop 3D models for basic design analytics. The late 70's to early 80's programs suffered from technological limitations on the available hardware and software. As hardware technology advanced so did 3D modeling software: created in 1982, ArchiCAD was the first 3D modeling software that could run on a personal computer. In today's world the technology available allows 3D modeling software to advance well beyond those beginning efforts. Today's 3D modeling products from the likes of Autodesk and Bentley products has given owners, designers, and constructors the technology to parametrically design information rich models.The use of BIM has always meant better project information. Emerging technology uses that information to advance our understanding of the impacts of our design. The built environment encompasses all aspects of our lives: information is key to understanding effects and relationships with the environment, materials, energy and people. Aerial images photographed by drones gives designers a birds-eye view providing a better understanding of the asset's environment. The connection to the Internet of Things (IoT) and elements within the parametric model gives feedback needed to create efficient designs, learning from the past. By Laura Kay Smith, BIM Lead - Canada, SNC Lavalin Inc.COLLABORATIVE PRACTICES FOR BUILDING DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTIONLaura Kay SmithLaura has been working in Technology Management with Architecture/Engineering for over 20 years. As both a business consultant and in-house expert, her focus is helping firms harness technology to create better design. Laura is a thought and technology leader working with design teams to transform technology and design challenges into opportunities for innovation and practice excellence. Laura has contributed to the advancement of BIM in Vancouver, BC by being a part of CanBIM, SmartBIM, conferences, and user groups. As the author of the blog, BIMFreak, and an e-book "How to Be a BIM Advocate" Laura provides a valuable resource for implementing and starting the BIM and the expertise to guide all levels of BIM users towards successful and future-proof technology solutions
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