Collaboration: when QSs become geeks and architects learn about NRM

Natacha Redon, Associate and BIM Leader for Identity Consult previews her talk at BIM Show Live and tells us why 5D cost management has been on the table ever since ‘BIM’ became a thing.
Natacha leads on Identity Consult’s digital services and as a trained project manager, she is used to leading processes, and as a BIMmer she understands the technology.
Indeed 5D cost management has been on the table ever since ‘BIM’ became a thing. There has been a lot of debate about whether quantity surveyors will become redundant because of it. The consensus however seems to be that they will simply become cost managers, focusing on the intelligent application of knowledge whilst technology takes care of the more manual tasks of measuring.
As with all other aspects of BIM, it is never as easy as the click of a button to make it all happen: the crux is communication and robust processes, which have been put to the test for the benefit of Lidl.
At Identity Consult we partnered with Space Group to offer a highly efficient, digitised service to improve and streamline the construction and/or refurbishment of a set of retails stores internationally for Lidl.
Whilst Space Group developed the data-rich 3D models for a handful of standard store types, to be downloaded and adapted to each site by all regional contractors, we use these models to produce accurate bills of quantities reflecting the impact of the two-monthly specification updates.
Creating an accurate, legible bill, updated in one-click of a button however did not prove to be a straightforward process. Not only were there technological limitations, but more importantly, it highlighted the silos our industry works in and how little we understand each other’s jobs. In a long list of obstacles to overcome, the first was to start speaking the same language which challenged both teams unexpectedly, equipping them with knowledge which will prove invaluable in any project.
To hear more of Natacha’s story, join us on Day 2 of the show on Thursday 1 March at 10:30am.