|
| CAD, CAM, CAE, design, technical drawing, drafting, delineation, visualization, manufacturing | ISSN 1442-2255 |
|
Survey Finds Building and Construction Industry at the Crossroads Highly optimistic, but still beset by conservative, short-term culture
3 December, 2003 - Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) firms can choose to do well � or exceptionally well - over the next three years, according to an independent survey launched today.�� But it warns before rewards can be claimed, the sector needs to resolve the serious issue of long-term benefits versus short-term gains. It reveals that, although 92 per cent believe using current technologies is critical to competitiveness, �a breathtaking 16.2 per cent of time is wasted through using out-dated design data � a figure probably equivalent to tens of millions of pounds of waste each year in the UK�. � �Opportunities and Unfinished Business�, the second annual survey of issues and trends in the UK Design Community commissioned by Autodesk, sees the AEC industry in an optimistic mood, rapidly growing, increasingly competitive, focused on the pressures and aggressive in its targets.� It predicts that the strong net growth seen over the last three years in seven out of nine sectors (from residential to health and education but excluding defence-related and commercial-industrial) is set to continue over the next three years. � But there is a downside; the report uncovers a division on future strategy between �long termists� who see quality, collaboration and effective partnerships as primary drivers and �short termists� who focus on cost and immediate return. � It finds that the latter are winning with a 14.8 per cent majority believing that �the industry tends to ignore the wider commercial prospect in favour of a narrow project focus�. � Because of trends towards integration (a 61 per cent majority believe this is a way forward) and consolidation through mergers and acquisition (all those questioned see a substantial growth), these differing mindsets present �high potential for conflict as firms implement growth strategies�. � This, the report suggests, could be compounded by the industry�s inadequate use of hard business metrics. � Far from sure Although most firms recognise the need to improve partnerships and minimise these risks, they are far from sure about implementing tools to help them do so.� As a �litmus test�, the survey examines perceptions on Building Lifecycle Management (BLM), the concept of focusing on a project�s entire asset and risk management cycle from concept to demolition. � On average, the industry expects BLM to deliver higher quality work and improved information management.� But it is doubtful that this can be done without higher costs and is not sure who really benefits.� Also, the jury is out when it comes to reducing project cycle times, improving productivity and costs. � �There are clearly exceptional opportunities ahead, but for firms to fully maximise potential, they need to think carefully which route to take. It seems the industry, by its own account is still held back by an outdated culture and inhibited by confusion on strategy,� says Pelle Chiari, Autodesk business unit sales manager. � �This survey holds valuable and compelling information for anyone in the industry wanting to define and anticipate coming challenges during what promises to be an exciting few years.� � �Opportunities and Unfinished Business� was undertaken on behalf of Autodesk UK by Pro-Log Research Limited.� About Autodesk Autodesk is the world's leading design software and digital content company, offering customers progressive business solutions through powerful technology products and services.� Autodesk helps customers in the building, manufacturing, infrastructure, digital media, and wireless data services fields increase the value of their digital design data and improve efficiencies across their entire project lifecycle management processes.�
|
|
| All rights reserved � 1996-2009 Digital Business Media Pty Ltd | home |