BIM processes and other software will continue to evolve in 2017.
By Ralph Schoch
The growing demand for construction technologies such as 3-D modeling and the use of augmented reality is making jobsites smarter, safer and more efficient. Every day, new technologies are introduced and more organizations are adopting them. This idea proved true at Autodesk University, where organizations recently showcased the innovative tech trends that will impact the industry in 2017.
The industry can expect to see three technological trends develop in the year ahead.
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By Chris Caddell
Construction project risk management has traditionally been seen as a way to prevent risks rather than create value. But in the current uncertain environment, the limitations of using risk management in a purely defensive - rather than offensive - way are apparent.
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By Mark J. Stempler
The green building industry is arguably more popular than ever. The number of certified green buildings grows every day across all sectors of the building industry. Unfortunately, the contracts for sustainable projects are sometimes behind the times. Standard construction contracts are often not tailored to address the numerous issues and nuances that may come up on sustainable projects. This potentially puts all contracting parties at greater risk of uncertainty if disputes arise on the job site. Preparation on the front end of a green building is usually the best way to alleviate problems later on, and it starts with the contract. This is true whether the project is one for new construction or for renovations or retro-fitting.
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By Jeremy P. Brummond and Patrick J. Thornton
Those in the construction industry know too well that an owner frequently orders changes to a project after a contract is signed. Changes may be necessary, for example, if the purpose or need for the project has changed, if unforeseen conditions or design errors and omissions are encountered or if the owner simply changes its mind.
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By Conrad Nowak
Few institutions have been forced to implement procedures, doctrine, strategy and discipline like the military. From concept to execution, every plan and decision is tested under the most adverse conditions in an ever-changing environment.
Many lessons learned in the U.S. Army can apply to the construction industry. When working with clients, I often find that use some of the following strategies to their fullest extent can be an eye-opening experience for evaluating risk, procedures, sales/business ventures and project management.
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(Photo credit: ICON Architecture)
The Passive House Building Standard requires an integrated design process.
By Michelle Apigian
With its laser focus on exceptional energy reduction, the Passive House Building Standard is the world’s most energy efficient. Applicable to all building types and uses, it not only dramatically reduces utility bills, operating costs and our carbon footprint, but its natural byproduct is buildings that are far more durable, phenomenally comfortable and healthy to be in, and highly resilient. Just as important, this superior quality and performance does not require a comparable increase in cost. What it does require is an integrated design process committed to a holistic approach toward building envelope and systems. It also encourages a partnership between designer and builder and a return to the craft of building, where attention to detail and pride of quality are truly valued.
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BIM users cannot assume they are protected from liability.
By Thomas J. Madigan
When building information modeling (BIM) technology first gained widespread use, commentators warned of new legal risks posed by the information sharing and collaboration essential to the process. Contractors and designers became worried that BIM could alter the traditional allocation of risk between them.
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There’s no time to lose in using tactics to attract and retain workers.
By Duane Wingate
Although 36 states added construction jobs between August 2015 and August 2016, construction employment increased in only 24 states between this July and August, according to the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC), primarily because firms that wanted to increase their headcount could not find qualified workers to hire. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects the industry will grow 28.8 percent by 2022, meanwhile tightness in the labor supply will only continue to increase in the years ahead.
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