SPEAKER INTERVIEW: CRAIG GARRETT

In talks with Craig Garrett, Digital Advancement Academy Manager, Bentley Systems

Craig Garrett will be speaking at the BIM Talks during The Big 5 in November. He is the Digital Advancement Academy Manager for Bentley Systems and he will be sharing his insight on "BIM Between Theory and Practice"

Describe the current uptake of BIM in the GCC.

BIM uptake in the GCC is definitely increasing. Driven mainly by the tier one consultants, contractors and clients who are often working internationally. However this does not mean that adoption is always being implemented correctly. Many companies are saying they are complying but actually only superficially ticking the boxes. Adoption within the the sub contractor supply chain is considerably less and currently creates the biggest challenge.

What are the top challenges asset managers face when using BIM?

Asset management is still the least connected discipline in the BIM process. While some projects are making headway, understanding of this important aspect of the life cycle is limited. What is necessary is earlier involvement from the asset management industry in general to direct the deliverable's during the design and construction stages. Like anything, education is key.

If you were to pitch BIM technology to building owners how would you sell it?

Owner / operators have by far the most to gain from the BIM process, yet are one of the least to adopt. The sheer expenditure required over the operations phase of a building life mean that small gains in data efficiency translate into significant savings over time. Whether this is simply delivering the data after construction in a logical and usable format or setting up the assets with scan-able bar-codes and operation sensors to inform intelligent BMS systems, all efficiency gains have massive payback potential.

Why would one be hesitant to take on BIM practice?

Yes, there are setup and training costs to be considered and good experience takes a while to accumulate so these are often the excuse for avoiding BIM. But in comparison the efficiencies and advantages that BIM can provide outway the negatives. Gone are the days of being able to attract additional fees for BIM adoption. These days BIM is expected and therefore included in the fee, so companies must ensure they are efficient in with their BIM processes.

Name one thing about BIM technology that people always get wrong.

BIM is often wrongly considered to be only the 3D model, however full adoption and understanding drives a level of understanding way beyond this. The graphical representation of the project is becoming the lesser concern. While ideal for visualization and coordination,  the more important aspects are now the inherent data surrounding the design and construction process, collaboration between the design team and the maintainable asset information management and handover.

About Craig Garrett -

Based in Dubai with 8 years of Middle East experience, and a further 25 years cross industry experience with numerous consultants and contractors alike. Craig is recognised as a leading achiever in digital delivery in his region.

Building on extensive knowledge of complex geometry projects, Craig’s skills are tuned to the creation, development and experience of data management throughout the supply chain. Working as part of the clients representative team during construction has led to a practical understanding of on-site digital delivery to facilitate, digital construction. supply chain manufacturing, facilities management and operational requirements.

You can hear more from Craig Garrett on "BIM Between Theory and Practice" at the BIM Talks on 29th November, 17:00 - 17:45.

About The Big 5

The Big 5 is the construction event providing leading-edge innovation, knowledge, and business opportunities for industry players around the world to connect, grow, and succeed.

Taking place annually in Dubai since 1979, the event has launched hundreds of thousands of products boosting the expansion of emerging markets. It has facilitated partnerships, advanced knowledge and industry best practices, while serving as the gateway for international companies to access the Middle East, Africa and South Asia regions.

The Big 5 covers the full construction cycle; not only does it showcase products across dedicated sectors, it also runs alongside nine specialised events enabling industry professionals to source building solutions from around the globe for every stage of the construction projects: The Big 5 Heavy, Middle East Concrete, Windows, Doors & Facades Event, Gulf Glass, HVAC R Expo, The Big 5 Solar, Middle East Stone, the Urban Design & Landscape Expo, and FM Expo.

The event includes high-level summits, practical seminars, CPD-certified workshops, and The Big 5 Impact Awards to foster collaboration, support best practices, and provide effective solutions to today’s industry challenges.

The Big 5 is organised by dmg events and is free to attend for all pre-registered visitors. 

#Big5Exhibition

To know more, visit www.thebig5.ae


About dmg events

dmg events is a leading organiser of face-to-face events and a publisher of trade magazines.

We aim to keep businesses informed and connect them with relevant communities to create vibrant marketplaces and to accelerate their business through face-to-face events.

dmg events organises more than 80 events across 25 countries, attracting over 425,000 attendees and delegates every year. The company’s portfolio of products includes many industry-leading events in the energy, construction, hospitality & design, coatings and transportation sectors. ADIPEC, The Big 5, Gastech, EGYPS, The Hotel Show and INDEX are the company’s flagship events. For more information visit www.dmgevents.com.

About DMGT

DMGT manages a portfolio of companies that provide businesses and consumers with compelling information, analysis, insight, events, news and entertainment. The Group takes a long-term approach to investment and has market-leading positions in consumer media, insurance risk, property information, education technology, energy information and events & exhibitions. In total, DMGT generates revenues of around £1 billion.