SPEAKER INTERVIEW: CRAIG GARRETT

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.