The construction industry has often been criticised for its slow uptake of technology. However, newly available technologies such as Building Information Modelling (BIM) have brought real change to the industry and massively improved collaboration. The industry has started to see a digital transformation, with some of the construction industry’s most forward-thinking clients becoming more digitised and relying more heavily on technology.
However, new challenges in data exchange, file compatibility, and vendor lock-in are stifling productivity and collaboration amongst stakeholders using different software applications.
A recent position paper by the European Construction Industry Federation (FIEC) earlier this year raised concerns about the potential exploitation of relationships between construction software providers and their users. Tier 2 contractors and smaller companies, for example, are finding themselves with no choice but to use the software determined by the main contractor or client – or risk being left behind – read more on that here: https://www.bimplus.co.uk/analysis/making-case-fair-competition-software-use/
The AEC industry is now demanding better solutions that promote collaboration and enable all members to freely exchange data across different applications and platforms – not a one-size-fits-all approach.
1. Streamlined Deliverables with OpenText
OpenText is a leader in Enterprise Information Management, helping companies manage, secure and exchange information. OpenText solutions manage content and data for many different organisations, and a recent integration with 3D Repo created a solution for streamlining contractual deliverables and transmittals securely in the cloud. The 3D Repo integration means that any Revit or IFC files that are uploaded to the OpenText Core for Supplier Exchange are automatically picked up and loaded into a corresponding project in 3D Repo.
3D Repo is also in the early stages of developing a solution with Asite’s Common Data Environment (CDE) which will enable bi-directional uploading between Asite’s CDE and 3D Repo’s digital construction platform. Files uploaded to one platform are automatically reflected in the other to save time by removing the need to upload files to multiple locations. Read the full case study here.
2. Digital Twin Platform with Cogital
Cogital is an international Digital Transformation Agency working with Consultants, Contractors and Owners. They deliver projects worldwide, operating across the full AECO industry. Cogital created a simple and lightweight web application and placed it on top of the 3D Repo platform to create an easy 3D experience for their client to browse their models with a fully customised user interface.
Once the models are federated in 3D Repo, the client simply signs in via the custom web portal to view, comment, and mark up issues. 3D Repo is the engine and model viewer behind the custom UI built by Cogital using 3D Repo’s open API. Read the full case study here.
3. Digital Progressive Assurance with eviFile
eviFile is a digital evidence platform that enables businesses to collect authentic field data using everyday mobile devices. Users can manage field assets, track inspection routes, and provide proof of events through their platform.
Using 3D Repo’s open API they developed an integration that allows the contractor to securely record work onsite, report issues with assets, and allocate tasks to field operatives – data is instantly relayed into a model hosted by 3D Repo enabling the client to view issues and manage assets in real-time. Read the full case study here.
4. Business Intelligence
Power BI is a business analytics service by Microsoft that aims to provide interactive visualizations and business intelligence capabilities with a simple and easy-to-use interface. Using 3D Repo’s open API, users can visualise their project data through interactive dashboards and reports using Power BI. Whether you are doing a weekly project review or a formal report, 3D Repo’s default template can be tailored to suit you.
5. Visual Programming with Dynamo
Dynamo is an open-source visual programming platform for computational design and for building information modelling (BIM). Customise and automate workflows and process tasks more quickly. As projects grow exponentially so do the daily tasks. Resolve issues or health & safety concerns by linking 3D Repo information to a Revit model. Review model issues or elements and update multiple drawings with the click of a button.
Check out our full list of integrations here: https://3drepo.com/integrations/
Get in touch today to discuss more about custom integrations and more support@3drepo.com
