BIM Show Live 2019 set the tone for a more measured and focused approach to technology adoption. Speakers from across the industry focused on data, standards and interoperability, as core fundamentals and end-user efficiency can be elusive in an overly tech-centric environment. Bluebeam VP of Industry Advocacy and BIM Show Live! featured speaker Sasha Reed explained the current landscape of technology and construction as a place where there are many possibilities; however, firms need to be aware of the issues of tech implementation without standards and plans. “My biggest takeaway from BIM Show Live 2019 is that measured change will come when we align technology and process with the needs of the individuals we’re asking to change,” says Reed. “From the introduction of ISO standards to the humbling story of a soldier’s journey with BIM in a war zone, the common thread was a realization that driving innovation tomorrow is dependent on becoming better listeners today.”
Three other key takeaways from the show include:
- Standards: With the launch of ISO 19560 and the efforts by general contractors to unite and define digital standards, a push towards asking the right questions to better define information standards was a highly discussed topic both days.
- Getting back to basics: With the influx of technology over the past five to eight years, many firms are still struggling to gain measurable value and create repeatable success. Implementors are getting back to basics, defining specific problems to solve with defined KPIs, scaled to the end user’s experience with the right technology.
- Data interoperability: Even with standards, APIs and open file formats, the industry is struggling to build the connections necessary to carry data over from one project phase to another without considerable data degradation or loss. Defining what data matters, to whom and when seems to be the rallying cry to overcome this gap.
In addition to speaking on a panel with fellow Nemetschek brands, Bluebeam UK Country Manager James Chambers appreciated both the discourse from industry luminaries as well as the synergy among tech providers looking to partner with industry to solve project delivery challenges. The Nemetschek panel treated attendees to a focused discourse on data democratization and value within BIM.
“It’s an excellent event with some of the most influential people in the UK building industry providing educational and inspirational content, and incredibly valuable industry updates – especially with the launch of the new building standards ISO19650,” says Chambers. “And on a personal note, it was great to be part of the joint Nemetschek stand, with our sister brands Allplan, dRofus, Graphisoft, Solibri and Vectorworks to exhibit together and display the synergy between our brands and products. Also, to take home the BIMMY award for “Best Stand” was a nice touch. Kudos to art director Andrew Hall and the Bluebeam creative team for designing the booth. You can expect to see us again at BIM Show Live 2020.”