Digitised operations: Embracing the change

Digital technology and its relevance in design

- SNEHA GURJAR, DIRECTOR, CEM ENGINEERS

Today, with the complexity of designs we witness a digital uprising is very critical. As architects and designers, we must actively invest in newer technology and innovations within the construction industry to allow stakeholders to save time and money and go paperless in the long run, moving towards environmental sustainability. Modern-day structures are a combination of various interconnected elements and resultants of complex calculations. Ensuring this momentous task is carried out with utmost precision requires a blend of competencies and digital aid.

The adoption of various technologies in construction works can enable professionals to save time, improve the quality of work, reduce costs, focus on safety parameters, and increase profit margins. Digitisation can also streamline business models and practices with proper tracking measures, thereby providing transparency and allowing us to collect data, and track materials and working hours for effective planning. Incorporating technology also boosts productivity, increases efficiency, and reduces project delivery time as communication on projects improves, reducing the scope for confusion and errors. In the present day, continually evolving technology has further strengthened the usage of digital tools such as BIM — a popular tool with integrated design practices. This has enabled architecture and engineering to streamline and improve on the lines of quality, accuracy and innovation. Additionally, various 3D integrated design and analysis software have made construction operations easier by carrying out complex simulations. As a result, such software and tools have become widely popular among architects and designers.