Information Management and the challenges faced in construction

Information management in construction refers to collecting, organising, and disseminating information related to a construction project. This information can include design plans, cost estimates, and schedules. It covers data generated during construction, such as progress reports and quality control data. During the operational phase, Information Management encompasses project approval documentation; contracts, agreements, facilities operations, as well as property management information.

Effective Information Management is critical for ensuring that all stakeholders have access to the information they need, to make informed decisions as well as reduce the risk of errors and delays on a construction project.

The term is sometimes interchangeably used with BIM Management, but there are significant differences. BIM management is a subset of information management, but it is explicitly focused on the 3D digital model of the building and the data associated with it. On the other hand, information management encompasses all the information related to a construction project, including but not limited to BIM.

So, what are the gaps we want to highlight?

The construction industry has faced several challenges in recent years. Some of the most notable include:

Labour Shortage

Due to the impacts of Brexit and an aging workforce, the construction industry needs more young people to enter the industry. BIM / Information Managers have increasingly been changing jobs, putting pressure on companies who lose their knowledge and skillset. This has led to increased competition for skilled workers and higher labour costs. Therefore, buying in expertise as needed starts to become a very viable option.

Increasing Costs

The cost of materials and labour has been rising, making it more difficult for construction companies to compete and remain profitable. Additionally, there’s an increasing demand for more sustainable, energy-efficient, smart buildings - which come with a higher price tag.

Delays and Budgets Overrun

Construction projects often need more time and budgets overrun, leading to increased costs and decreased profitability. That is due to factors such as changes in the scope of the project, lack of proper planning and other unforeseeable situations.

Lack of Productivity

The industry still relies heavily on manual labour and manual processes, and there is a lack of technology integration in many projects. Also, with training quite often seen as a “nice to have”, finding more efficient and new ways of working will be missed, contributing to further productivity issues.

Complex regulatory and legal environment

The construction industry is heavily regulated. Compliance with various codes, laws and standards can be complex and time-consuming. Despite the benefits, it can lead to added delays and costs.

Climate change and Natural Disaster

Climate change is causing increased natural disasters like floods, droughts, and hurricanes, damaging construction sites, and delaying project progress.

The above list is not exhaustive but shows the main issues the industry has been encountering lately.

Most of them can be tackled with effective Information Management as the process helps with planning, relocating and effectively using all the resources involved in the venture.

How can Symetri help?

Symetri offers BIM consulting services, software solutions and training courses which help our clients use Information Management effectively. Working with us can be the first step to addressing the lack of productivity and bridging the gap in a labour shortage.

Our multinational BIM consulting team are experienced in all stages of projects worldwide and can support you with:

• BIM Standards, methods and procedures
• BIM Management documentation
• BIM documentation peer review
• Digital implementation and BIM strategy development
• Or we can be part of your team for one or several projects that you need support on.

Support from Symetri has been proven invaluable for many large and small companies. If you would like to discuss your requirements, please get in contact with us about our BIM consulting services to see how we can help.