For decades, two-dimensional models have been used in concrete construction to convey information. Today, while many companies are already integrating digital technology, many still use 2D documents as their main source of data for estimating, design and on site. Yet the facts are clear: by limiting yourself to 2D models, you're missing out on many features that could considerably improve the constructability of your projects, and consequently your company's profitability too. Let's find out why.
A 2D model lacking in information
First of all, a 2D design is limited in the way it can communicate the construction process. It is therefore impossible to provide all the information of a real three-dimensional structure in a 2D model. The 2D model, for example, cannot reflect lengths and dimensions as they are in reality. All these factors are essential when it comes to calculating materials and quantities, estimating costs and planning construction. What's more, it's difficult to spot any errors before they turn into costly rework.
Apart from the fact that 2D models can't contain all the essential information, they have an even greater disadvantage: quite simply, it's impossible to visualize the final result. There's always a loss of understanding with 2D models, as each stakeholder has his or her own vision of the result.
Limited sharing of data and modifications
What's more, if you're working with 2D plans and they change, it's imperative that you compare two plans to detect the changes. The more changes you make, the easier it is to make mistakes and not be up to date with the most recent version of the construction model. If something is unclear, tracing its source and reason is very complicated, if not impossible.
Needless to say, when information is already limited, sharing it with other stakeholders is also limited. Even if the information is there, getting it downstream is difficult. Firstly, design documentation needs to be standardized to ensure that everyone involved in the project understands and interprets it in the same way. The more people involved in the process, the more problematic 2D documentation becomes, as there is a greater risk of misinterpreting the information.
Not moving forward means lagging behind
It's easy to think that because 2D models have worked for construction in the past, there's no need to move on to 3D. There's no denying that 2D was for many decades the best option. However, times are changing and the alternatives available today prove that traditional design documentation simply isn't enough to have a truly buildable workflow. This means exposing yourself to costly miscalculations, lack of information and delayed projects, which nobody can afford.
In short, as stakeholders move more and more towards digital options and 3D, anyone clinging to 2D tools will end up with outdated workflows. The disadvantages are twofold. Firstly, the construction process is less reliable and less efficient. Secondly, your value as a company is not as high as it would be with optimized work processes. The point is clear. Switching to 3D not only enables you to offer a more streamlined, cooperative and cost-effective service, but also, and above all, to win more tenders.
Want to know more about winning more tenders?
We invite you to consult our ebook: Guide to better concrete quantity surveying
