Kapitol is staying ahead of the digital transformation curve by requiring Building Information Modelling (BIM) on all projects. Up until now, we have been using BIM and other digital tools for the design and construction of large data centre and commercial projects typically because the client has required it, or the complexity of the project demands it. Recognising the multitude of benefits offered by utilising Digital Specification on projects, Kapitol has taken a pivotal step to implement BIM on all projects, no matter the size and complexity. This strategic partnership with our sister-company and in-house digital engineering specialists, Resolve Insight, is set to revamp the construction landscape by fostering efficiency, cost reduction, and improved project outcomes.

Lessons learned from non-BIM projects 

Previous projects that were deemed not ‘BIM projects’ experienced issues that are rife in the construction industry today. For example, one of our Build to Rent projects had an existing 2-storey building that needed to retain two heritage facades and integrate with the new building. The existing façades were scanned to capture the as-built data. That information was transferred into the architect model for general coordination but not to the point of IFC (Issued for Construction). When it came to site works, the façade coordination proved problematic due to the lack of detail in the façade overlays on the new structure. Varying wall thicknesses were not captured accurately, and junctions took 50% longer than anticipated due to the lack of detail in the structural model. If properly captured and coordinated in the model, according to the standard BIM Digital Specification we have adopted on more complex projects, coordination would have been easier, and programme and cost would have ultimately been reduced.

Unleashing the power of Digital Specification 

BIM Environment 

By establishing and maintaining a robust BIM environment throughout the design and construction phases, Kapitol ensures seamless integration of digital technologies at every step of the project lifecycle. This creates a foundation for enhanced collaboration and data-driven decision-making. Kapitol’s starting point is collaborating with Resolve Insight’s Digital Engineering specialists and developing a project-specific Digital Specification for every project. This comprehensive document serves as a guiding framework to understand the project goals and outlines all roles on the project and their digital requirements, fostering clarity, accountability, and efficient workflows.

Digital Prequalification 

Once the BIM environment has been established, 3D models are delivered instead of the traditional 2D drawings. Kapitol emphasises the importance of digital prequalification for consultants and subcontractors involved in our projects. This shift not only encourages industry professionals to embrace advanced modelling techniques but also enhances communication and accuracy during project execution.

Construction Tracking Dashboards 

Leveraging the power of Construction Tracking Dashboards integrated with popular construction software such as Aconex, Procore, and PayApps, Kapitol enables real-time data collection and analysis. The utilisation of PowerBI amplifies the decision-making process regarding project quality, safety, cost, and schedule, thereby streamlining project management.

4D Sequencing and High-Risk Activities Modelling 

Implementing 4D sequencing for construction activities empowers Kapitol to visualise and optimise project timelines, identify potential clashes, and streamline coordination efforts. Moreover, the incorporation of high-risk activities modelling and sequencing animations enables proactive risk management, enhancing safety and mitigating project delays.

Handrail and Clearance Zone Modelling 

By employing digital tools to model handrails and clearance zones, Kapitol prioritises safety during the design and construction phases. This meticulous approach ensures adherence to industry regulations and minimises on-site hazards.

Reviewing Architectural Models and Documentation 

To prevent costly rework and enhance accuracy, Kapitol adopts a proactive approach to reviewing architectural models and documentation early on. Resolve Insight identifies gaps and leverages their architecture team’s expertise, to develop fully detailed RRCPs, concrete profiles, and other detailed drawings so the site team is building from accurate documentation.

The future of Digital Construction is now 

Kapitol’s embrace of digitisation in construction is proactively identifying and resolving potential issues before they materialise on-site. By starting early and providing as much detail into their models, we are empowering our teams to adopt a proactive approach, ensuring a more streamlined, efficient, and cost-effective project execution. This departure from the traditional ‘band-aid’ approach in the construction industry not only elevates project outcomes but also sets a new standard for excellence.