Construction projects generate a massive amount of data, which is distributed among a large number of stakeholders, using a wide variety of software and tools. When architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) teams look for ways to reduce rework and waste, they often find that using a common data environment is essential.
What is a common data environment?
A common data environment is a browser-based application that enables centralized storage, access and sharing of all data relating to a construction project.
This may include :
traditional BIM models
contracts
Estimates
Reports
Detailed material specifications
Installation details
And much, much more.
The project's multidisciplinary stakeholders can access the CDE from anywhere using a computer, cell phone, tablet or machines in the field.
CDEs are used in a wide variety of construction projects, including heavy civil engineering projects and commercial buildings. These large-scale construction projects involve a complex network of stakeholders and rely on the exchange of large volumes of data. A CDE facilitates this exchange by giving everyone, from designers to contractors to project owners, easy access to project data in real time.
Why construction projects need a common data environment
A common data environment is the only source of truth for all stakeholders.
Even before design begins, survey data is collected. The amount of information and people involved in a project snowballs from there.
Stakeholders in the common data environment
Architects, designers, engineers and contractors gather and share data to generate a buildable model and record relevant project information. In the field, machine guidance systems can connect to the model and send construction data and job status back to the database.
The CDE is the central connection point for all these activities, serving as a single source of truth for all project data.
Use of a common data environment avoids lost or incomplete data
Furthermore, duplication of effort, errors and lack of communication between stakeholders are all too common in the construction industry. For example, designers and contractors often recreate their own versions of models and work in their respective software tools.
IFC (International Foundation Class) file formats are intended to remedy this disconnect by making models readable in any software, but this shareability comes at the expense of completeness. When design files are converted to IFC format, a significant proportion of the data is lost. In addition, non-design files, such as contracts and quotations, may be hosted in multiple systems, making file sharing more time-consuming and error-prone than it needs to be.
49% of AEC professionals perform manual data entry when systems are not integrated, doubling the time spent on data entry tasks and increasing the likelihood of errors.
Source: JB Knowledge 2020 Construction Technology Report
CDE significantly reduces this risk by providing project teams with real-time access to the latest project information, just when they need it.
Construction companies use a common data environment to collect data for analysis purposes
A by-product of this access is improved productivity and data analysis capabilities, which can help AEC players add value and be more competitive. For example, according to a report by Dodge Data and Analytics, contractors say that better data collection, analysis and reporting capabilities have a significant impact on their ability to win new contracts. The CDE lays the foundations for these improved capabilities.
Common misconceptions about common data environments
Misconception #1: using a common data environment is too complicated to be productive
Resistance to adopting a common data environment is often due to the same factors that make technology adoption difficult in the construction sector: insufficient expertise, resistance to change and cultural barriers. There is a perception that the implementation and use of CDEs is accompanied by a steep learning curve. But the reality is quite different. Most CDEs are easy for users to adopt, and data centralization actually simplifies their daily workflows.
Misconception no. 2: shared data environments weaken data integrity
Another common misconception about CDEs is that they can weaken the integrity of your data. Many users assume that, in the process of making data more portable, it's inevitable that some information will be lost. And it's true that most CDEs aren't exactly open and data-agnostic. However, a good CDE can offer the same level of data quality, whatever its origin. Otherwise, efforts to optimize BIM are compromised.
Misconception no. 3: thinking too small when it comes to a common data environment
As the construction industry continues to be disrupted by the digitization of business, labor shortages, new technologies and pandemics, it's important that architectural and engineering firms deliver greater value to their customers.
Connected construction is widely recognized as the best way for construction companies to maintain their competitiveness and take advantage of digital technologies. Using a common data environment is an important first step in becoming a data-driven company.
For example, CDE eliminates the need for duplicate progress reports between subcontractors, contractors and building/project managers. All parties have access to the same information in real time, reducing the risk of miscommunication and error.
Connected construction also bridges the gap between construction and operations. A CDE that supports the bidirectional flow of data between the CDE and the various systems and tools involved in the project enables automated data aggregation. Machine control information, survey data and photogrammetry information are constantly fed back into the CDE. This data can then be used to create an as-built digital document and a digital twin of the asset, enabling operators to make better decisions about future maintenance and upgrades.
According to Deloitte, a company that has adopted a connected construction approach should be able to :
Optimize time and resources to achieve process improvements.
use real-time progress data to improve project performance
extend equipment life by managing construction assets more efficiently
improve sourcing and access to resources to rationalize design changes.
Realize the value of project data and achieve better construction results thanks to a common data environment.
With all the information, people and processes in motion on any major construction project, it's important to choose a CDE that lets you do more than just store information. The CDE has the potential to close the information loop for all parties involved throughout an asset's lifecycle. Data management is just the beginning.
