Bridging the gap between design and construction

Statistics suggest large projects typically take 20 percent longer to finish than scheduled and are up to 80 percent over budget1. The bulk of these additional costs come in the form of design consultant fees, change orders, building permits and the cost of rebuilding. Construction productivity has actually declined in some markets since the 1990s2 and financial returns for contractors are often relatively low. The numerous developments and measures referred to here, even though described holistically as parts of a single transformation framework, will not be equally relevant for any particular company. The industry is ripe for change.

Many of the issues and challenges in both construction and design are common across the board, but overall the industry remains very diverse and fragmented. Companies have very varied circumstances and starting points, according to their region, the sector they are active in and their size. For many of those involved in this industry, steps towards safer, more efficient practices are mostly positive, however as with most complex engineering practices, they can only complete their functions if implemented correctly. The issues facing Vuit as we push to shape the adoption of new digital technologies include a lack of regulation in the industry. Nonetheless, we know that small steps in the right direction generate short term wins and can lead to great leaps down the line. In keeping with our goal to bring cutting-edge technologies to the hands of architectural professionals, Vuit has partnered with the Architectural Institute of British Columbia as an educational provider. Vuit helps industry professionals to remain current with contemporary technology, business practices, methods and materials. Our main focus is on the principles and applications of 3D laser scanning. Our course provides participants with knowledge in the state-of-the-art technology of 3D laser scanning cameras to generate 3D Models and Virtual Reality tours, thus, allowing architects and designers to extract with high accuracy 2D drawings and elevations of existing structures. Participants gain experience and practical knowledge of how best to utilize the technology to increase efficiency and reduce errors in data collection in the reverse engineering process. It’s ideal for those who deal with building reuse (tenant improvement), rehabilitation and preservation projects. Also, those interested in site survey methods and techniques and construction documenting. Our instructor’s expertise extends to educating on structural issues such as:

• Xradar Pre-Design Scanning
• Void Surveys
• Reflected Ceiling Plans
• Rebar Corrosion & Concrete Delamination

Until relatively recently, accurate detection of subsurface infrastructure was not formally required, nor carried out in a consistent manner – a form of nonchalant construction that, when relied upon, led to costly project delays, utility damage and numerous liabilities. This is true for both civil works and concrete construction. As such, advances in Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) technologies have been developed, dramatically increasing the accuracy of subsurface infrastructure detection but with a level of safety and efficiency unrivalled even by X-ray technology. Vuit is constantly seeking unique opportunities to capture, analyze and define existing conditions through safe, non-destructive means. Through partnership with Xradar, pioneers of the GPR industry, we have introduced Xradar Pre-Design Scanning, the most innovate and enterprising way to better serve our clients and the industry.
Pre-design has proven especially effective at mitigating risk and adding value to projects, especially tenant improvement projects. The two-step concept is very simple. Firstly, we scan a space prior to the interior design phase, and then secondly, using the most advanced 3D laser camera technology, we produce detailed as-built drawings that include the location of all subsurface infrastructure. These drawings can be utilized by engineers or architects to create design drawings with zero conflicts. Essentially, smart space planning that enables the design team to formulate ideas and evaluate design concepts without the requirement to revisit down the line, when the cost of changes dramatically increase.

This kind of work requires a great degree of skill and knowledge. In today’s fast paced environment it also requires a great degree of dedication to keep up without sacrificing quality. Vuit has a vision. To empower broad-based action by removing barriers and unleashing people to do their best work. Our style aims to anchor new approaches in the industry to create sustained linkage between design and construction. Tell us about your experiences with the construction process.