Implementing VDC during Pre-construction

One of the major achievement that projects have seen in the past is drastic improvement (more than 5-7% of overall cost) with the use of VDC (Virtual Design and Construction) for their construction projects

1. A report by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) found that VDC can improve construction productivity by up to 20%. The report analyzed several case studies and found that VDC can help to reduce project delays, improve communication and collaboration, and increase the accuracy of project estimates.

2. A study published in the Journal of Construction Engineering and Management found that VDC can significantly reduce construction costs by enabling more efficient use of resources and minimizing waste. The study analyzed several construction projects and found that VDC could result in cost savings of up to 5-10% compared to traditional construction methods.

It is therefore useful to start planning for implementation of VDC during the preliminary phase.

We have suggested in the past, to implement Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) during the pre-construction phase of a construction project on the following guidelines:

1. Define project goals and objectives: Establish clear project goals and objectives with the project team and stakeholders, including project scope, budget, and schedule. Use this information to guide the VDC process.

2. Select VDC software: Select VDC software that aligns with your project goals and objectives. Consider the software's ability to model, simulate, and analyze construction processes and data.

3. Develop a BIM model: Develop a preliminary Building Information Modeling (BIM) model of the project site, including existing structures, utilities, and site conditions. Use the BIM model to visualize the project and identify potential design clashes.

4. Use 4D scheduling: Use 4D scheduling to simulate the high level construction process and visualize the construction sequence over time. This can help identify potential construction delays and optimize the construction schedule.

5. Use cost estimating software: Use cost estimating software to develop a more accurate construction cost estimates. There are a bunch of software like Bluebeam, OST etc. which can help to automate the process to some extent.

6. Use VDC for planning logistics:

Use VDC to manage the planning of logistics route, construction site layout, site crane location and equipment position etc. This can help optimize the flow of construction activities.

By implementing VDC during the pre-construction phase, we can improve collaboration, reduce construction costs, and increase the efficiency and effectiveness of the construction process.