VDC as a project management tool on construction projects

In traditional construction, the design and planning phase consists of several different 2D drawings which are used to share information and to expand the design afterward by analyzing and making specifications. To optimize this decision making the term Building Information Model (BIM) is introduced. A model used to store information of physical features and functionality of the facility as data that can be assigned by the different partners in the project work. The BIM’s are an essential part of project management tool Virtual Design in Construction (VDC) where a digital 3D model is created to enable design and construction virtually. VDC operates with dimensions going from 3D to 6D.

The different dimensions add the time schedule, materials quantity and pricing and maintenance information to the 3D model. An upcoming feature of VDC is virtual reality, which gives the coming user of the facility the opportunity to experience going trough the facility using 3D glasses. The virtual reality avoids bad design decision in the spacing of the facility.

The VDC will optimize information sharing to a fast and precise process between the partners. Different alternatives in the facility design and process can easily be evaluated to optimize the product. At last the client has a much better starting point in experiencing the facility before the building process has even begun, resulting in less surprises leading to less changes.

Wherever good this sounds the implementation of VDC must thought trough, a lot of education is needed and especially the craftsmen on the construction site needs adapting. This article will adopts the VDC tool to construction projects by going through different sections and it will discuss the advantages and disadvantages when implementing the tool in the early construction planning phase.

Annotated bibliography

By Mie Drejer