Page 39 - newDATAmagazine | 02>06>2021

There is no denying that the modelling of real life structures and events in order to document and
predict outcomes has been a long standing human fascination, and this is part of what BIM
proposes to achieve. As complex as this might sound, and notwithstanding all the procedural
requirements enshrined in BIM, its underlying basis can be reduced to a file - structured on a data
rich object basis and including digital information about the physical and functional
characteristics of the built asset. Data can be added or removed from the file and can be enquired
through compatible platforms to provide instant graphical and non-graphical types of output.

The usefulness of this type of concept is that it leverages collaboration as data tends to be
centralized. The input from the different disciplines such as architectural, structural, civils, MEP, or
services are easily collected and cascade down to all the others, creating less friction and forming
a digital record from the early stages of a project to the operation of the built asset.
The problem on the other hand is how all sides can ensure that their software solution integrate
in order to avoid data loss, the need for manual processes and achieve true collaboration - this is
where common data environments (CDE) come in.

Figure 2: Example of common data environment with 3D visualization and various data
management tools. Author image

“The common data environment (CDE), is the future.
the single source of information used to The digital is not only allowing for increased
c o l l e c t , m a n a g e a n d d i s s e m i n a t e efficiency, it makes even more sense in the
documentation, the graphical model and non- current context of a worldwide push for more
graphical data for the whole project team” sustainable and environmentally friendly
[Designing Buildings Wiki ]. It stores and solutions.
standardizes the massive amount of data that The use of shared digital representations at
is usually generated in construction projects, a very detailed level accessible both from the
avoiding in many cases the need for rework office and from the field in real time can for one
and allowing for more conscious decisions in eliminate the need for drawings all together.

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