Latest news with #BIM
Malaysian Reserve
3 days ago
- Business
- Malaysian Reserve
OpenSpace Launches Comprehensive Progress Tracking Solution for Construction
OpenSpace's reality capture platform gets a boost with Disperse's milestone-based progress tracking, empowering project teams to detect issues earlier and drive greater efficiency SAN FRANCISCO, June 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — OpenSpace, the global leader in 360° reality capture and AI-powered analytics, today announced the launch of OpenSpace Progress Tracking. Powered by Disperse, the new milestone-based solution helps construction teams quickly capture visual jobsite data and generate actionable insights, enabling earlier detection of productivity issues and cost overruns. OpenSpace Progress Tracking can be used to validate work-in-place for billing, identify schedule risks early by comparing actual progress to planned milestones, coordinate more effectively across trades, and deliver clear, visual progress summaries to all stakeholders. As a result, teams can make more informed decisions and better manage project schedules and budgets. 'OpenSpace Progress Tracking, powered by Disperse's advanced analytics, allows us to spot productivity issues much earlier in the project — sometimes as early as 10% completion — giving us critical time to address them before they escalate,' said Vito Antuofermo, Vice President, Commodore Construction. 'In the past, we might not have realized significant cost overruns until halfway through a project, often too late to fully correct course. This early visibility helps us prevent costly delays and improve overall project outcomes.' Disperse, a leader in construction progress tracking, specializes in milestone-based progress tracking and reporting. Disperse's platform combines jobsite imagery with expert human verification to provide an objective, trusted, and detailed view of what's been built — and what hasn't. OpenSpace Progress Tracking marks a meaningful evolution of the company's previous approach to progress tracking. By pairing OpenSpace's AI-powered reality capture platform with Disperse's analysis, the solution provides highly accurate, flexible, and scalable progress tracking – with no additional resources from the project team needed. Key features of OpenSpace Progress Tracking include: Reliable, rapid capture: 25,000 sq. ft. in just 10 minutes; image data viewable in around 15 minutes Automated mapping: Images linked to plans and optional BIM models Comprehensive quantification of work-in-place: Over 700 visual components across 200+ program tasks Customizable insights: Structured reports delivered to meet specific project needs, such as by phase, trade, or entire project Highly flexible: Adaptable for individual project requirements BIM-aware, not BIM-dependent: Functional with or without BIM models Integrated with project scheduling software: Supports P6, Asta, Microsoft Project, Excel schedules, and more 'OpenSpace Progress Tracking offers a smarter, more advanced alternative to our previous progress tracking solutions. We're now combining the speed and scale of our reality capture platform with Disperse's milestone-based insights to unlock a new level of clarity on the construction site,' said Jeevan Kalanithi, CEO and co-founder of OpenSpace. 'Project teams gain reliable, up-to-date information they can act on, helping them spot and resolve issues sooner, reduce costly rework, and keep construction moving efficiently. It's about turning complex data into clear guidance so teams can stay ahead.' OpenSpace Progress Tracking, powered by Disperse, is available now as an add-on to OpenSpace Capture subscription licenses. Pricing is based on the scope of tracking required and the number of projects. For more information about OpenSpace Progress Tracking, visit About OpenSpace: OpenSpace is a computer vision and AI company that helps commercial builders reduce risk and increase efficiency. Its image-first platform streamlines coordination between field and office teams, with powerful tools that bring new visibility and insights from pre-construction through operations. Customers such as Gilbane, Comfort Systems, and Tishman Speyer rely on OpenSpace to document jobsites more effectively, avoid destructive investigations, and finish projects ahead of schedule. To date, customers have captured imagery on nearly 70,000 construction projects across 99 countries, documenting over 47 billion square feet. To learn more, visit and follow us on LinkedIn. Media Contact:Meredith Obendorfermedia@
Edinburgh Reporter
4 days ago
- Business
- Edinburgh Reporter
How Contractors Use BIM Software to Build Better, Smarter, and More Collaborative Projects
In the construction world, precision matters. Every inch, every angle, and every material specification can impact the outcome of a project. That's why in recent years, Building Information Modeling—better known as BIM—has become one of the most important tools contractors can use to improve their accuracy and efficiency. At its core, BIM is a type of software that allows users to create and manage digital 3D representations of physical spaces. But it's more than just a fancy modeling tool. BIM integrates information about every component of a building—its materials, systems, and construction sequence—into a single, intelligent model. For contractors, this means that instead of working from stacks of paper blueprints or disjointed spreadsheets, they're working from one dynamic source of truth that reflects every detail of the job. Why 3D Modeling Matters in Construction Before BIM came along, the process of designing and constructing buildings relied heavily on 2D drawings: floor plans, elevations, cross-sections. While effective to a degree, these drawings left room for interpretation, and sometimes misinterpretation. If a wall shown in one drawing didn't line up perfectly with a window in another, it might not be caught until construction was already underway—resulting in delays, change orders, and added costs. With BIM, contractors can visualize the entire project in three dimensions before the first nail is hammered. They can see how different elements of the building interact, spot clashes between systems (like plumbing intersecting with HVAC ductwork), and simulate how the project will progress over time. It's like building a virtual version of the structure first, ironing out the kinks, and then following that blueprint in the real world. This not only improves accuracy but also reduces risk. By identifying issues early, BIM helps prevent costly errors and rework down the line. Enhancing Collaboration Across Teams One of the biggest advantages of BIM isn't just the visual modeling—it's the collaboration it enables. Construction projects often involve a long list of stakeholders: architects, structural engineers, mechanical consultants, general contractors, subcontractors, and clients. Each party has different goals and different pieces of the puzzle. Traditionally, these teams might work in isolation, handing off information in a linear fashion that slows things down and creates bottlenecks. But BIM creates a shared environment where everyone can access the same model and update their portion of the project in real time. If an architect adjusts the window layout, the structural engineer can see the impact immediately. If a contractor finds a problem during framing, they can mark it in the model and alert the designer. This level of visibility improves communication and reduces the chance of misunderstandings. Everyone is looking at the same model, the same data, and the same timeline. It's much easier to stay on the same page, which is critical on projects where small misalignments can turn into major issues. Accuracy and Cost Control Cost overruns are a constant headache in construction. Budgets are tight, and even small mistakes can ripple out and affect the entire job. One of the reasons contractors are leaning more heavily on BIM is because it improves their ability to estimate accurately. When you're building a 3D model that includes material specifications, you get a clearer picture of exactly what's needed. BIM tools can generate quantities and material take-offs directly from the model, reducing guesswork and helping to avoid over-ordering or coming up short. Some platforms can even factor in current pricing trends to give more realistic budget projections. This leads to more confident bidding, better resource planning, and stronger relationships with clients who appreciate transparency and professionalism. When a contractor can show exactly what they're building, how long it will take, and what it will cost—with visual models to back it up—they're in a much better position to win business and deliver on their promises. Beyond the Build: BIM as a Long-Term Tool BIM isn't just for design and construction phases—it also plays a key role after the building is complete. Many modern projects use BIM for facility management, allowing building owners to maintain and operate their property more efficiently. Contractors who include detailed information in the model—such as the locations of shut-off valves, serial numbers of installed equipment, or maintenance schedules—are giving their clients a valuable tool that extends far beyond the final walkthrough. This creates additional value and can be a strong selling point for contractors who want to differentiate themselves from the competition. Integrating BIM with Other Construction Tech What makes BIM even more powerful is how it integrates with other modern tools in the contractor's toolbox. For example, many teams now use drones to survey sites and then plug that data into the BIM model to reflect real-world conditions. Laser scanning, AR/VR walkthroughs, and cloud-based collaboration platforms also tie into BIM, creating a seamless digital environment from concept to close-out. Some contractors even combine BIM with a job management solution to keep all aspects of the project—from scheduling and budgeting to site photos and safety reports—under one digital roof. When everything is integrated, project managers have a clearer view of progress, potential issues, and the path to completion. Challenges to Adoption Of course, adopting BIM isn't without its hurdles. It requires a shift in mindset, new workflows, and often, upfront investment in training and technology. Smaller contractors might feel overwhelmed by the learning curve or the cost of implementing BIM in-house. But many find that the investment pays off quickly, especially when they start to win larger contracts that demand digital coordination. And for those who aren't ready to bring BIM entirely in-house, there are consultants and service providers who can assist with modeling and setup while the team gets up to speed. Final Thoughts BIM is reshaping how construction projects are visualized, planned, and executed. For contractors, it's not just a tool for making pretty models—it's a practical, results-driven way to reduce mistakes, work more efficiently, and deliver higher-quality outcomes. As more teams adopt BIM and use it to collaborate in real time, the industry as a whole becomes more agile, innovative, and capable of taking on complex builds with confidence. Whether it's coordinating with engineers, showing clients what the finished product will look like, or managing resources more effectively, BIM gives contractors the edge they need in a demanding and ever-evolving field. Like this: Like Related
Time Business News
4 days ago
- Time Business News
Understanding the Importance of Structural Precision
When it comes to building anything that needs to stand the test of time, structural precision is not just helpful—it's essential. Whether it's a towering skyscraper, a sprawling bridge, or a single-family home, every project relies heavily on accuracy in planning, material specification, and execution. The importance of precision doesn't only relate to aesthetics or efficiency; it can mean the difference between safety and disaster. In recent years, the global construction industry has experienced a notable evolution. The push for sustainable buildings, the integration of digital tools, and stricter building codes have all placed an emphasis on getting the details right. One seemingly minor error in measurement or alignment can lead to project delays, increased costs, or worse, structural failure. This shift in focus has created a strong demand for services and tools that promote exactitude, right from the initial design stages to the final build. At the heart of this precision revolution are components like precision strand and rebar. These reinforced materials are designed with exact specifications, making them ideal for projects requiring pinpoint strength distribution and stress tolerance. Used commonly in concrete reinforcement, these materials ensure the integrity of structural frameworks and support systems. As highlighted by the American Concrete Institute, even the smallest inconsistency in rebar placement or tension can significantly alter load distribution, making accuracy a non-negotiable. To get a clearer understanding of how critical this is, consider the 1981 Hyatt Regency walkway collapse in Kansas City. Investigations later revealed that minor deviations in connection design and load-bearing assumptions led to catastrophic failure. Over 100 lives were lost. This tragic event became a harsh lesson on the consequences of overlooking structural precision. Cases like this underline the value of relying on precise materials and adhering to strict engineering protocols. The rise of Building Information Modeling (BIM) has helped immensely in refining construction accuracy. BIM allows architects, engineers, and contractors to work from the same digital blueprint, reducing misunderstandings and improving collaborative planning. The National Institute of Building Sciences has credited BIM with reducing construction rework by up to 30%, thereby enhancing both safety and budget adherence. However, the digital tools themselves are only as effective as the data and components that feed into them. Which brings us to the human aspect of this whole precision puzzle. Skilled labor, experienced engineers, and vigilant project managers are indispensable. Even the most sophisticated tech won't compensate for poor execution on-site. Training programs and certifications, like those from the American Institute of Steel Construction, play a key role in upholding construction quality standards across the industry. Material providers are also stepping up. Companies are now offering pre-certified components with digital tracking and quality assurance guarantees. This means that builders can verify the exact properties of the materials they're using, reducing guesswork and preventing substitution with substandard products. The traceability of materials adds another layer of reliability to any structural project. Speaking of design integrity, incorporating structural modeling and simulations before actual construction has become a standard best practice. With 3D modeling and simulation tools, engineers can now predict how a structure will perform under various conditions—from high winds to seismic activity. These simulations often bring to light potential design flaws that would otherwise go unnoticed until it's too late. Additionally, the role of precision strand and rebar extends far beyond just being construction materials. These elements are integral to shaping the overall resilience of a building. For example, post-tensioned concrete slabs, which utilize these components, allow for greater span lengths and load-carrying capacities. Studies from the Structural Engineers Association emphasize how such materials significantly improve structural lifespan while reducing long-term maintenance costs. As buildings become taller and more complex, precision becomes exponentially more important. Every extra story adds more pressure, more wind load, and more room for error. In urban environments where space is limited, the margin for miscalculation shrinks. Cities like New York and Tokyo, with their dense infrastructure, have made advanced precision techniques a mandatory part of their building codes. With the demand for exactitude growing, so too is the need for specialized services like rebar modeling services. These providers ensure that rebar layouts are optimized before construction begins, minimizing conflicts and maximizing efficiency on-site. According to industry reports, firms that implement such modeling services report a 25% faster installation time and significant waste reduction. These services aren't just beneficial—they're becoming an industry standard. Looking to the future, the adoption of AI and machine learning in construction precision is poised to grow. Predictive analytics can now flag potential design issues before they occur, using vast amounts of data to forecast outcomes. As highlighted in an article by Engineering News-Record, this form of tech-driven oversight is already improving success rates in complex builds. Automation tools are streamlining both planning and real-time monitoring, adding layers of checks that go far beyond human capability. Incorporating all these advancements isn't just about staying current. It's about responsibility. Structural failures can be devastating—not just financially, but in human cost. The world expects more from its builders now, and rightfully so. Every beam, every wire, every bolt must be part of a precise system designed to endure. To conclude, understanding and embracing structural precision is no longer optional. It's the backbone of safe, sustainable, and cost-effective construction. Whether you're laying the foundation for a home or engineering the next skyline icon, the commitment to precision determines success. From leveraging high-grade materials like precision strand and rebar to adopting advanced tools such as rebar modeling services, each step should reflect a dedication to excellence. And in an industry where one wrong measurement can spell disaster, that dedication could save more than just money—it could save lives. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Business Journals
4 days ago
- Business
- Business Journals
5 advanced technologies that prevent renovation issues before they surface
In today's rapidly evolving world, technology is no longer an option, but rather an essential tool for navigating the complexities of construction renovations. Whether modernizing aging infrastructure or revitalizing legacy buildings, advanced technology such as laser scanning, ground-penetrating radar, 360 photography, Building Information Modeling and cloud-based software help to solve problems before they materialize on the jobsite. 1. Laser scanning: Precision for BIM models Laser scanning delivers precise information for an accurate 3D model, which feeds into Building Information Modeling. High-definition surveying takes this process even further by collecting thousands of survey points in a 3D point cloud, which is then used to develop exact models used for complex renovation work. McCownGordon's scanning technology is accurate within 5mm — giving designers confidence in existing conditions, and allowing them to design feasibly within the current structure and systems 2. Ground-penetrating radar: Subsurface insights Ground-penetrating radar (GPR) detects subsurface utilities or rebar, enriching BIM models with hidden data. Utilizing GPR minimizes overall risk in renovations and helps to keep projects on schedule and under budget. In a recent conversion of an industrial warehouse to a mixed-use facility, McCownGordon identified undocumented utility lines through ground-penetrating radar, which saved us costly rework. 3. 360 photography: Visual alignment with BIM 360 photography provides panoramic site views to verify BIM models. 360 photography documents project process and links images to the BIM, supporting the quality control process. The ability to easily compare site conditions with the BIM model allows project teams to catch errors early and keep remote stakeholders abreast. 4. BIM coordination: The key to renovations Building Information Modeling (BIM) integrates laser scanning, ground-penetrating radar (GPR) and 360 photography into a centralized digital model. BIM software tools can prevent clashes such as MEP and structural conflicts. BIM also facilitates stakeholder engagement by providing clear 3D visualizations, reducing errors and enhancing overall project delivery. By centralizing data, BIM drives accuracy and efficiency setting up complex renovation project teams for success. Accurate BIM models also minimize rework through streamlined coordinator, reducing material waste and supporting project sustainability goals. 5. Enhanced communication through cloud-based software BIM thrives on seamless coordination between the field team and all remote staff and stakeholders. Cloud-based platforms allow the sharing of BIM models, schedules and documents in real time. Field staff can utilize mobile technology such as iPads and tablets to view up-to-date digital drawing sets and full 3D models. This enhanced communication between all parties increases the speed of analysis and resolves conflicts on site, resulting in reduced project time and costs. expand Conclusion The use of cutting-edge technology such as BIM, laser scanning and 360° cameras makes complex renovations simpler. At McCownGordon, technology is ingrained in our process. From day one, our team uses the right technology to proactively identify potential issues and enhance the building process for our clients. As leaders in virtual design and construction, we use the latest technology to reduce costs, save money and improve the overall project quality. These tools are particularly useful for renovations where enhanced coordination and collaboration is imperative to project success. Learn more about how McCownGordon's cutting-edge technology can benefit your next renovation. McCownGordon Construction is recognized as one of the nation's largest construction managers. Focused on core values of integrity, relationships and performance, McCownGordon commits to building collaborative partnerships and specializes in construction management, design-build, sustainable construction and general contracting. With strong experience and expertise in a variety of market sectors, the company is 100% employee-owned and was named a top 25 Fortune 2023 Best Construction Company to Work For. More information about McCownGordon is available at Dustin Burns is SVP, Technology and Business Solutions, for McCownGordon. Burns has led technology adoption for the company since 2005 when most of the industry considered 'construction tech' unnecessary. Burns has implemented cutting-edge technology to deliver value-driven solutions to our clients.
Forbes
29-05-2025
- Business
- Forbes
Modular Housing Offers Good Design, Efficiency And Value
The Whidbey Puzzle Project showcases an off grid, net zero home built with modular construction. In the midst of an ongoing housing crisis, more attention is focusing on modular construction for its efficiencies in labor, time and costs. Those efficiencies stem from the modular construction process, but can be exponentially improved with simple design. Otis Odell, housing and mixed-use sector leader at design and construction firm HED, began exploring modular construction years ago in ski resort towns where the building season was limited by the climate. While he now advocates for the method, he acknowledges it has challenges. In one of his recent projects, despite having a well recognized general contractor and fabricator, the project team still wasn't able to realize its targeted results because of ongoing, known challenges. 'Achieving cost and time savings with modular in some ways depends on some level of standardization that has little to no variation or complexity,' he advises. 'You start to understand what is important about the design is that it can deliver a functioning kitchen, a place to eat, has light, has outdoor space access, and if those unit layouts are repeated hundreds of times that's OK because what ultimately makes it home is what the resident brings into the space.' To realize the efficiencies and standardization, a project has to start and finish with strong cross-functional collaboration. The project's architects and fabricators have to coordinate closely to ensure modular-friendly designs. Any time there are misaligned expectations between stakeholders, it can take the budget and timeline completely off the rails. 'The fabricator making shop drawings should get all stakeholders together to understand the scope of work of each entity, the general contractor and major sub trades, in the pre-construction phase,' Odell said. 'When they aren't familiar enough with the scope to provide actual pricing, it leads to a miss on project goals.' Modular can be more efficient and cost effective with better collaboration, communication and ... More consistency. Odell has a vision to create a platform that flips the script. 'Instead of a standard process to deliver housing – design, award, price – I want to flip it to be price, award, design,' he said. 'Typically, a firm is asked for a preliminary package and they rarely can match budget so we are creating a pricing module with three years of information in a database with number of units, unit mix, zip code, and it can generate a price in seconds.' With well-defined scopes, Odell believes he can deliver units at an 85% ready level with a ready set of drawings including all BIM models so it is easy to collaborate with a fabricator. The standardization and efficiency that Odell wants to deliver for housing is a reality for hospitality projects he has been involved in. 'The quantity of modules through standardization is essential, and we were able to get the number of modular types from 11 to 7 for a standard hotel layout,' he said. 'It took $2 million out of the project costs from the fabrication standpoint. Reducing the variations is easier in the hospitality space than in the housing space.' Right now his company has created six bay designs that can deliver a studio, plus one-, two- and three-bedroom units with the goal to have 80% permit ready documents of the modules. Odell anticipates that in housing, there will be a need for customization and variation, so he's working on computational design and using scripts that will have the ability to respond to clients' and developers' goals. Some groups, like Model/Z, also are experimenting and exploring standardization efficiencies to deliver attainable workforce housing projects across the country. Modules are fit for purpose, to be transported easily to a job site to be placed on a pin ... More foundation. Whidbey Puzzle Prefab is approaching modular construction in a similar way—focusing on the replication. 'We saw an opportunity to create a higher quality, more sustainable product that could be replicated,' said the company's architect Matt Wittman. 'Flexibility is the key factor. A lot of prefab has larger modules, we divided it into multiple smaller units to be easier to be transported on any highway without special permits. That was a driver.' The modules are flexible and interchangeable to be put together in multiple configurations; assembled in infinite ways that can be custom to the set location, whether it is in the city or the woods, in Florida or in Maine. Modules are premade individually and then connected with outdoor walkways that all sit on a pin foundation with a ring beam producing walkways and decks as in between space. The modules also are light on the land and environmentally sustainable. Modules have solar, heat pumps, hydronic heating and cooling, energy recovery ventilation, and smart home controls to monitor energy use. These features support the advanced insulated envelope to meet net zero. The roof is extra insulated, achieving R-50, which is a 70% increase over base line code, and the walls are double the code. The roof also is designed to channel rainwater into a tank where it can be purified with a custom filtration system to be safe for use in kitchens, bathrooms, showers, washing machines, and dishwashers. Whidbey shared a cost breakdown, which is based on the company's current low volume, but at scale could break through some affordability challenges. The prototype project costs $676 per square foot. With the net zero, off grid design, operational costs are eliminated. No concrete is used since the home uses a steel ground frame foundation with hand set micro pin piles that also mean less ground disturbance. This unique foundation can reduce the carbon footprint by 77% compared to a concrete foundation. The pin foundation has to be engineered to meet the same criteria as a conventional concrete foundation, so it is equal in performance. A conventional concrete foundation would have 30,000 pounds of Co2, the pin foundation is only 7,000 pounds, and meets all the same structural requirements. The install labor is about the same, but the pin foundation doesn't need any excavation, so time and labor is saved there, along with the fact that there is no destruction and impact to the earth. Currently, the modules are manually assembled in a factory with builder partners. From Odell's data-informed, repeatable designs to Whidbey's flexible, net-zero prefab systems, the future of modular housing looks increasingly sustainable, scalable and cost effective. While customization remains a hurdle, innovations in computational design and manufacturing partnerships are pushing the limits of what prefab construction can offer. As modular solutions evolve, they promise to transform how we build homes in the years ahead.
