Devan Mistry shares his insights from the recent BIM Coordinators Summit 2024

The aim and objective being to think about how we’re starting to add value to existing and new ways of working and collaboration by investigating data-driven and automation workflows with a joined-up approach. Questions included:

• What is the focus of design?
• Who should be involved?
• How do we extend design contributions by leveraging technology across more than just the “modellers” or “drawers”?

Devan’s keynote presentation highlighted McBains’ ‘One Model Many Uses’ manifesto and how, by discovering a golden thread of collaboration in a multi-disciplinary business, and subsequently sharpening it, we can metamorphose into an inter-disciplinary model whereby the gaps in communication and processes are dissolved; the start to finish culture becomes robust, as well as a thriving ecosystem of information.

By clearly distinguishing our SBUs into BIM Dimensions (3D – 8D) and simultaneously tapping into our digital ecosystem of software, tools and plug-ins, we can support the entire lifecycle of a built environment project and embody internal/external stakeholders to collaborate and share information seamlessly.

For the afternoon panel discussion, Devan was joined by representatives from Heatherwick Studios, Avant Leap, ESRI and Autodesk to discuss the role of Artificial Intelligence and its impact on future design firms, staff and processes. This question posed a lot of conflicting opinions, which is probably a fair and accurate representation of how the AEC industry currently feels about AI; although it’s clear design processes and outcomes will be heavily transformed and optimised, there are practical challenges and considerations to be aware of. If we, as a collective, become over-reliant on AI and data, the danger is that this data (which is variable in quality and accuracy) will lead to biases which in turn will result in flawed designs. There were valid questions raised around privacy, job displacement and accountability for AI-generated designs which are of an ethical nature. At the end of the day, we all individually and collectively have a responsibility to ourselves and each other and this then transforms into a question of personal integrity.

Having attended and presented at the last two BIM Coordinators Summits, it’s clear that together we’re building something unique - a decentralised autonomous organisation, or DAO, owned and governed by the community itself. We’re embracing cutting-edge distributed ledger technology and smart contracts, becoming a living example of the future digital business transactions and work. Through our network, we empower and reward AEC professionals globally, fostering a collaborative exploration of ideas and knowledge. Turning intellectual and human capital into real-world assets. Our community of practice, body of knowledge, and global network marketplace for digital products and services, will drive innovation and the digital transformation. The mission is to influence the ethical and equitable implementation of emerging technologies and create a more productive, safer, and sustainable built environment.

About the BIM Coordinators Summit

An annual event, the BIM Coordinators Summit, brings together professionals involved in Building Information Modelling (BIM) to share knowledge, discuss challenges, and explore advancements in the field. The summit is specifically targeted at BIM Coordinators and other key stakeholders responsible for implementing and managing BIM processes on construction and infrastructure projects.

There are several key features of the summit, which makes the event unique in the digital world:

1. Networking Opportunities

It provides a platform for professionals to connect with peers, industry leaders, and software developers, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange.

2. Educational Sessions

The summit typically features workshops, technical presentations, and case studies on best practices, tools, and technologies related to BIM coordination.

3. Industry Trends

Experts share insights into emerging trends, standards, and innovations, such as digital twins, AI in construction, and sustainable design through BIM.

4. Panel Discussions

Thought leaders discuss critical topics like standardization, BIM implementation strategies, and challenges in collaboration.

5. Exhibitions and Demonstrations

Software providers and technology companies showcase their latest BIM tools and solutions.

6. Awards and Recognition

Some summits include award ceremonies to honour outstanding contributions and projects in BIM.

The two-day event is important as, unlike broader BIM conferences, this event centres specifically around the challenges and solutions related to coordination and collaboration; participants actually gain valuable knowledge and skills to take away to their practices and enhance project workflows and outcomes. As well as these technical aspects, participants are encouraged to partake in a professional network dedicated to improving global practices and influence standardisation.