Essential new software

1. BIM
Building Information Modelling (BIM) software has been one of the most important developments in digital construction technology since 2010. Around 70% of all projects now use BIM and you must be BIM certified to win UK government contracts.
With BIM software, building plans are represented in a 3D model which is accessible by everyone involved in a project. This helps to:

• Boost collaboration
• Enhance communication and reduce misunderstandings
• Improve project management processes

Example of construction innovation with BIM: 22 Bishopsgate will be the tallest building in London’s financial district when complete. BIM software helped improve management of the project and was used to identify problems and fix them early.

2. Cloud-based construction software
One of the most important construction innovations of the past decade has been the emergence of cloud-based construction software. Until relatively recently, most tools for project planning, HR or inventory management ran on servers at company headquarters. However, this meant that site managers depended on printouts or downloads to manage work – a risky and inefficient process.
Today, most kinds of construction software are available in the cloud, meaning anyone with internet access and the right ID can see crucial information. Cloud-based construction software is valuable because:

• Access to the latest information is always guaranteed
• 75% of businesses use cloud-based construction software for the mobile experience – this lets them instantly sync plans and communicate over the cloud
• Cloud-based software like PlanRadar can save users up to 7 hours per week

​3. Architecture apps
​The past decade has seen the emergence of a variety of architecture apps which make building design and project management significantly smoother. Architects can now create models entirely on touchscreen devices that can be viewed anywhere. This digital construction innovation means:

• Architects can share and update blueprints in real time
• By going mobile, building inspectors, site managers and individual labourers can check plans and tasks on smartphones and tablets
• Communications are more efficient