Advantages of MEP Consultants from India

Having a single source for MEP (M&E) design and coordination – that mainly sums up the main advantage of MEP consultants from India for Western construction. MEP design and MEP coordination effectively being delivered in the shortest time is best served by a single source. Finding that single source will either be with the designer, who also executes coordination, or with a contractor, who also executes design. A single source, therefore, must have additional skills to perform both functions and thus complete the workflow in its entirety. MEP consultants in India can help in this regard by providing the complete design and contracting service required, such as MEP design engineering, BIM modelling, 3D BIM coordination and MEP shop drawing services, for example.

MEP Design

MEP design outputs generally include providing mechanical, electrical, public health and fire protection building services design information (also known as building engineering and architectural engineering) by building services designers and consultants. This design data and information is provided in a comprehensive manner for all design stages, from concept design, design development, tender and construction. The design is typically delivered in BIM format and include spatially coordinated models that contractor and installation teams can install from or use to progress their detailed design and coordination.

MEP Coordination

The above individual designs are incorporated and spatially organised to be install ready in the process known as MEP coordination. Once an intelligent model is sent to the MEP engineers, they can begin working, using the building envelope, rooms and volumes as reference points. With Revit MEP, MEP engineers can determine spaces and zones and can use intelligent data which provides greater detail. The parametric tools will update automatically, and calculations can be more quickly and easily analysed when building designs change. The results are reported and shared across the entire project team. MEP engineers can calculate sizing and pressure loss. Simulation and visualisation tools can predict system behaviour, appearance and connectivity.

MEP coordination thus includes providing spatially coordinated building services drawings for construction and engineering projects, which can be utilised by MEP building services contractors. All building services (HVAC, pipework, public health and electrical systems) are also coordinated with other disciplines contributing to the building fabric and structure (steel, concrete, false ceilings, etc.). This multiservice coordination work is created in a 3D environment for all the disciplines, resulting in several benefits, namely:

• No clashes (validated using clash-detection software tools)
• Models are generated, through BIM modelling, with precise representations of all mechanical components/kits
• Prevention of site-based delays and disputes, as all services have been proven to work
• Ease of communication, since the 3D model can be viewed and enables easy walk-throughs for demos, reviews or value engineering
• Faster approval/sign-off (3D BIM modelling allows clients to view detailed areas in 3D).

Verification of 3D MEP coordinated drawings is possible with the help of the latest MEP modelling software Revit MEP, and clash detection in Navisworks has been found to be effective for 3D building services coordination. 

Benefits of Single Source for MEP Design and Coordination

When MEP design and MEP collaboration were provided by different sources, several challenges ensued. The adoption of a specific workflow – one where MEP design and MEP coordination are delivered by one designer or one contractor – solved virtually all of these issues, combining design and coordination, aiding installation, commission and fabrication. The end products include models and drawings which are coordinated and ready to install. 

Particular advantages with this workflow process are:

• The BIM model is started and finished by the same team or firm, saving time and minimising confusion.
• The layout strategy (plant and main distribution) is usually adopted first, keeping changes to a minimum.
• The designer can consider procurement information, incorporating this data early in the design stage.  
• The designer/contractor can then issue a coordinated model.

Additional support for design and coordination is a constant requirement for both designers and contractors. Essentially, India is a vast source of technically qualified MEP professionals, and growing collaboration online with overseas customers over the past decades has groomed a generation of well-qualified, well-experienced, low-cost MEP design human resources now capable of seamless MEP coordination too. The major advantages India’s MEP outsourcing services provide are as follows:

• Thorough understanding of process and requirements
• Indian MEP professionals are well versed in delivering designs according to international building and construction standards, global best practices and quality control systems.
• Expertise in MEP
• India produces high quantities of technically qualified engineers and designers.
• Most MEP consultancy firms in India house technical personnel of different disciplines under one roof. 
• Technical personnel work with the latest CAD technology for drawings and calculations and use BIM 360 Team with Collaboration for Revit (C4R) to create coordinated BIM models.
• Experience in MEP 
• MEP design and coordination professionals have spent several years learning MEP technologies and systems, and they have spent even longer moulding custom-designed MEP solutions, specifically for each client.

• Track records for successful solutions and projects by a particular MEP consulting expert can be viewed online.
• These firms have a history of delivering 3D BIM and 2D CAD solutions to general contractors, design build contractors, real estate developers, architecture and engineering (AEC) firms with high quality, on time and cost-effectively.
• Indian MEP consultancy firms conduct peer reviews, have a customised quality checklist or have automated software-based model checking.
• Infrastructure
• Overseas MEP consultancy firms house relevant hardware, software, printers, plotters, etc., thus saving this expenditure for Western firms.

The benefits for outsourcing 3D MEP coordinated drawings ultimately result in saving time and cost for Western construction firms. Skilled external partners, especially MEP consultants from India, as a single source can efficiently deliver MEP design and MEP coordination drawings, additional design, BIM activities and responsibilities, including MEP shop drawing services.

Benefits of Outsourcing VDC Services

Modern high-quality buildings require highly effective planning and execution. Virtual Design and Construction, or VDC, is an application or process which involves a plethora of digital tools of emerging technologies to help plan and effectively execute virtual building design. The VDC process may or may not include BIM modeling, but using BIM virtual construction technology and BIM models enables architects, engineers, clients and contractors to work collaboratively on a single model — at the same time within the gambit of VDC. Outsourcing VDC and BIM services produces cost-effective, accurate output on time using the right people and the right technology.

Why outsource VDC services?

Overseas BIM services professionals are adept at working with teams of project planners during the phases of concept design, analysis of proposal requests and during construction. Ultimately, outsourcing VDC services using BIM processes increases efficiency and profitability. Here’s how:

• Specific knowledge or expertise required by certain projects may not be available with the in-house team. Overseas BIM services firms can bring a varied and experienced talent pool into the project quickly and at minimal cost.
• Experienced and technically qualified outsourced partners may be able to train in-house staff on relevant emerging technologies.
• During tight delivery schedules, overseas firms can assign skilled BIM services experts to key project needs. More professionals are available and some can be dedicated to one client at a time, while others tackle emergency troubleshooting for other projects.
• Outsourcing frees up in-house personnel to focus on other projects.

Other Benefits of VDC Outsourcing through BIM Services

Typically, BIM services firms provide field drawings and visualisations before construction begins. Expertise with Revit tools within a BIM workflow helps streamline design documentation, leading to greater productivity. Design changes in one system will automatically be updated throughout the model, cutting costs and reducing delays.

• Overseas BIM services firms create 3D models and 4D views of clash-free coordinated models of architectural, structural and MEP disciplines. By using 5D BIM models, cost managers can decide the quantity of different components that are required.

• BIM outsourcing firms help Western AEC firms retain more in-house professionals on site and provide information on keeping projects on budget.
• BIM services firms provide 2D drafts, documents for review and building permits with minimal turnaround time. Use of Revit software allows changes to be made quickly, saving costs.
• Advanced BIM technology helps avoid scheduling conflicts and delays with reliable coordination services. Proper coordination of MEP systems and the time for MEP components to be installed can lead to smooth workflows between service providers and other stakeholders, saving time, rework and money.
• Visualising the installation of MEP systems in tight spaces and complex routes and identifying potential problem areas can be made easier with BIM software in a VDC environment, therefore keeping costs down.
• BIM services firms maintain project records, helping with operations and maintenance throughout the project lifecycle. Access, upgrades and repair of MEP systems takes minimal effort.
• Time management is a noticeable plus point to using overseas BIM service firms. While outsourcing BIM services, project managers can concentrate on logistics, costs and material flow, helping to make quick, sound decisions, saving extra costs and time.
• BIM services help collaboration and coordination with detailed BIM models.

With a host of significant advantages to support the practice, outsourcing VDC and BIM services to overseas VDC companies is soon becoming a preferred option for AEC firms in the West, helping to save time and cost.

Key Points of MEP Systems & Coordination for Sports Entertainment Venue

As long ago as 776 BC, the Greeks are believed to have participated in the first Olympics to honour Zeus in Olympia, a sanctuary site for Greek deities. The stadium of ancient days has progressed in leaps and bounds and the deities have changed, but the passions incited and contained in sporting stadia still remain. Stadia design today takes far more into consideration than contestants’ comfort and the impact of raucous spectators. Sports venues today strive to integrate sustainability, perfect lighting, ventilation and plumbing in their design. It is the coordination of MEP (M&E) systems and other disciplines that ultimately ensures a stable and comfortable sporting venue for the great celebration of sport and spectator facilities and hospitality arrangements, as well as a myriad additional uses for the venues, such as concerts and conferences. MEP coordination is critical for the success of sporting venues on various levels, and the use of Building Information Modelling (BIM) technology has been crucial for its success.

Sports venues play a special role in enhancing life as we know it. Therefore, MEP engineering designs for sporting venues must be developed and executed in a significantly different manner from other structures. We look at the key points of MEP systems and MEP coordination where these differences matter most. Lighting that is reliable, purposeful and aesthetically comfortable is a major consideration. Since sporting venues must cater to varied occupancy, open areas (including spaces with retractable roofs) and unusually shaped spaces (circular, oval, etc.), these venues experience near-constant fluctuation of temperature and illumination. Air flow must be adjusted to maintain varying temperature, and thermostats, light switches, etc. must not clash with wall coverings or the aesthetic theme. Once these individual concerns are addressed, challenges may lie in the precise coordination of mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems with architectural and structural constraints.

So, what is MEP coordination?

Essentially, MEP coordination is the clash-free integration of all building services within the context of architectural and structural disciplines of a building (steel, concrete, etc.). For sports venues, the MEP challenges are different than for other buildings.

MEP Challenges for Sports Entertainment Venues

• Facility layout with structural and architectural designs, spectator seats, requirements of playing turfs, etc. need to be perfected by industry professionals.
• HVAC equipment must be accommodated in general spaces and the power supply must be uninterrupted for multiple lighting systems across the venue.
• Effective plumbing design is essential for a sports venue where large numbers of spectators can be expected to use rest rooms at the same time. In fact, there is every likelihood that 50 percent of the occupants of a sports entertainment venue use the facilities within the same 30 minutes. Water supply and drainage must operate seamlessly.
• A venue’s geography is another consideration. A French, Spanish, Italian, Russian or English football stadium may vary in architecture and differences due to climate, traditions and national design features. Consequently, the MEP layout will also vary.
• Grandstands, VIP boxes and infield areas present unique fire safety challenges.

Some of the specific design challenges that must be considered during MEP coordination are found below.

Emergency power supply is of utmost importance at a sporting venue. Electrical components and switchgear equipment must be designed without a single faulty point and should handle varying electrical power demands. This could be an oil-powered generator, the grid supply or UPS power with batteries. Large venues would ideally benefit from a diesel generator to run emergency and standby loads. These options need to be integrated with both the other services of MEP and with the other disciplines of the structure.

• Large lobbies in sporting venues sometimes have wide curtain walls, which enable natural light variations. Light photocells can be used to measure ambient light and save energy. Sensors that detect occupancy levels can shut off unnecessary lights and save energy.
• Photovoltaic systems can be used for renewable energy systems and must be factored in to MEP coordination.
• Sports venues have started receiving requests for electric car charging stations. This demand is set to increase, and MEP engineers must consider how these stations work with the rest of the MEP design and the building’s structural and architectural elements.
• Cable trays are a preferred primary pathway due to accessibility and ease of maintenance, but access to cable trays can be tricky because of coordination with ductwork, piping, light fixtures, conduits, etc. 

One of the most vital issues in sporting venues is the size and placement of HVAC units. Extensive ductwork is required to supply and return air, depending on the placement of the units. Typical considerations consist of dehumidification and high latent loads. Vast and varied use of the premises may lead to air distribution challenges. Irregular swings in outside air need to be controlled. 

• Open areas can use passive shading methods and thermal energy storage (TES), so that during times of low demand, cooling can be generated.
• Areas with large occupancy numbers generate corresponding amounts of carbon dioxide. These areas can use carbon dioxide sensors, energy recovery systems and enthalpy economisers.
• Variable air volume (VAV) systems or single-zone VAV can be used in non-bowl systems.
• Large sports venues can integrate variable refrigerant flow (VRF) technology to provide effective condensing units and thereby reduce consumption.
• Smoke venting in stadia with closed roofs need roofs which can open when required. Smoke management can complicate HVAC design, as possible fire sizes must be considered along with whether the smoke should be directed above head height for evacuation safety.
• Due to large occupancy numbers, sports venues require well-ventilated spaces which also consider significant latent loads from all occupants. Humidification and dehumidification features are necessary for air handling systems, and energy can be saved through air side heat recovery. Typically, this is from exhaust air streams through run-around coils, air heat exchangers and heat pipes.
• Venues for hockey games require air to be maintained with low humidity. This may involve sub-cooling air to less than 50 F, eliminating moisture and ensuring comfort.
• In recent times, security is another factor to consider in HVAC design for sports venues. Exterior air intake locations must be secure from chemical threats.
• Rainwater reclamation systems can be used for irrigation and toilet flushing, integrating them with the structural and architectural features.
• Low-flow fixtures can reduce water usage and must be included in MEP design according to the nature of the structure.
• Excessive ceiling heights (anything more than 75 ft) in sporting venues makes automatic sprinkler protection insufficient. Venues have started to integrate deluge-type suppression systems.

The above MEP design requirements must be thoroughly considered and integrated in the process of MEP coordination, a prospect that requires detailed planning and the right tools. One such tool is Building Information Modelling (BIM).

The Role of BIM

Building Information Modelling (BIM) uses tools such as Revit to collaborate and coordinate MEP design on an integrated platform. As these projects are typically carried out by large muti-disciplinary teams, professionals can consult, edit and modify in a shared environment with an organised workflow. Contractors can use 3D BIM coordination software, such as Revit and Navisworks, to identify and prevent potential clashes in MEP design and then use tools, such as Autodesk BIM 360 or Collaboration for Revit (C4R), to work on and share models on the cloud.

Changes in MEP components and layouts may require changes in ductwork designs, fabrication and the process of laying out the systems. It is necessary to fully comprehend the design of each discipline. Hence, MEP components must be set according to the venue’s operations, and MEP engineers use BIM technology effectively to develop a fully coordinated system.

Employing MEP BIM coordination helps create accurate and precise MEP coordination drawings and final construction sets of drawings with vast volumes of data. 

BIM solutions can also help save energy consumption. For example, a sports venue in Germany used 380,000 LEDs for its circular façade using BIM technology, achieving 60 percent more efficiency than conventional lighting. 

Stadia require a flawless collaborative MEP design with the architectural and structural disciplines. BIM technology facilitates this collaborative approach, making it possible to develop impressive sports venues that are fully coordinated, keeping within budget and providing high levels of comfort and safety to all occupants. Tools used in BIM technology can check for clashes and energy consumption to help the building stay cost-effective and energy-efficient, contributing to overall sustainability.

So, what does the finished product achieve with its BIM-assisted MEP coordination? Sporting venues become all that they are meant to be, namely spaces that:

Host World-class Events

Providing spectators and players special experiences depends on interesting, comfortable and reliable structures. This can involve special lighting or retractable roofs that work seamlessly.

Showcase Innovation

Sporting venues cater to a range of different events, from world-class events to concerts to comedians or other events. Multi-use arenas must negotiate site constraints flawlessly, integrating function with aesthetics with effective coordination of MEP systems and architectural and structural features.

Are Cost-efficient and Sustainable

Construction challenges cannot delay opening matches. Imposing structures must be constructed on schedule and function cost-effectively and with efficiency in energy consumption. MEP BIM coordination enables timely and reliable construction.

So, even though effective MEP coordination for new or renovated sports venues may be challenging for MEP engineers and architects, meticulous collaboration, creativity and hard work can help coordinate large-scale building services with high-priced real estate and architectural elements for a comfortable, reliable and aesthetically attractive sports entertainment venue.

How Offshore Design Partners Save Time and Money

Despite several global challenges, the construction industry is still experiencing robust growth. Effective architectural and MEP (mechanical, electrical and plumbing) design holds the key. Cost-effective and high quality architectural and MEP design services can have a noticeable effect on the construction industry’s progress. Interestingly, outsourcing production support for drafting, Revit modelling, Revit MEP and MEP coordination presents an expedient opportunity to save time and money.

Just what services can offshore design partners offer? 

Although, offshore design support services abound, some of the most useful services that can be outsourced are MEP drafting, MEP modelling, MEP coordination, architectural drafting, architectural modelling and rendering. We look at what these services require and what they can deliver:

MEP Drafting:

Designs and marked images received as input are converted to MEP CAD drawings

MEP Modelling:

MEP CAD drawings used as input can generate MEP systems that define spaces and zones in mechanical, electrical, plumbing and fire models for all stages of the MEP design process, such as concept, tender, contract, coordination, approval, construction and as-fitted stages.

MEP Coordination:

MEP models can be spatially coordinated with building services (HVAC, pipework, public health and electrical systems) with other disciplines making up the building structure, architectural elements, fabric and external envelope (steel, concrete, false ceilings, etc.) to ensure there are no clashes (validated using clash detection software tools), represent mechanical components accurately, help create views, sections and detailed drawings easily and quickly, provide easy communication, as the 3D model can be viewed and walked through for demo, review, value engineering or QC purposes by building services trades.

Architectural Drafting:

Architectural CAD drafting services can be provided for all stages of a project, including tender, planning, construction and facility management for industrial, commercial, retail and residential projects. Design partners can deliver complete construction drawing sets (incorporating space planning, interior design and construction). Sheets (plans, elevations and sections) can be created.

Architectural Modelling:

Architectural 3D modelling services increasingly use Collaboration for Revit (C4R) and BIM 360 Team, a cloud-based tool on Revit, so that teams from different locations can work on the same model. Different kinds of models that can be provided are Revit BIM 3D models, which can incorporate changes to schedules, plans, elevations, sections or the 3D model itself, resulting in coordinated updates to all corresponding areas, point cloud 3D BIM models, that take 3D laser scan data in the form of ‘point cloud’ data and use it to create accurate Revit BIM models, 3D CAD building models, created using Autodesk Revit, ArchiCAD and AutoCAD Architecture by using 2D layout plans and elevations as a starting point, SketchUp models, which have the flexibility of being used in a number of other applications, including Revit, AutoCAD and virtual software applications, 4D CAD models, which are 3D models with the added element of time-based scheduling.

Architectural Rendering:

Architectural 3D rendering is an efficient communication tool for internal design approvals and reviews during the conceptualisation and design phases. It helps construction teams view proposed layouts and is also used for effective marketing and presentation. Renderings are created from detailed 3D models (which could be in Revit or AutoCAD) using plans/elevations. The 3D model is then exported to 3ds Max where textures, materials, reflection, depth, lighting and other features are added. 

For many companies, these services can be expensive, time-consuming and require significant investment in software, hardware and training. Offshore design partners, especially in countries like India, offer these services at cost-effective rates, quicker turnaround times and of high quality. There are several reasons for this.

Benefits of Outsourcing Design Services

Architects and engineers offshore are well qualified and have the experience to provide high quality design services. Companies in this industry have been providing these services for decades and are fully cognisant of diverse global business requirements. Other reasons include: 

1. Lower Costs - Design services are provided at affordable rates, resulting in Western companies saving designing costs, without compromising quality.
2. Infrastructure - Overseas design support teams have access to sound technical infrastructure, generally working on cloud-based storage and high-security data back-up solutions.
3. Quality Control - The quality checking processes ensure that the design projects delivered are accurate and error-free.
4. Latest Technology - Software, tools and technology used are the latest available, including AutoCAD, Revit, Inventor, SolidWorks, 3ds Max, etc.
5. Security - Confidentiality agreements and strictly monitored data security ensure intellectual safety.
6. Skilled Personnel - Architectural and engineering teams are put through many comprehensive sessions of hands-on work, making them well capable of dealing with even the most complex requirements.
7. Fast Delivery - Multiple teams, dedicated teams and global delivery centres follow an efficient process to complete projects on schedule.

So, offshore drafting, 3D modelling, MEP coordination with Revit MEP support and Revit MEP resources and rendering services provided by reputable offshore design partners may lead to an efficient business process that works out to be economic, fast and reliable for the long term.

Has BIM Changed MEP Design Workflow?

BIM Influence on MEP Design Workflow

Critical to effective construction, MEP (M&E or mechanical, electrical, plumbing) design is both one of the key features of a structure and also the one design feature that most people don’t want to deal with, unless something goes terribly wrong with any particular aspect of it. This makes it all the more important to make MEP design as precise as possible. Over time, MEP design has improved and evolved in many ways, but with the arrival of BIM (Building Information Modelling) technology, MEP design has seen modifications in its workflow as well. The workflow of MEP design has been significantly influenced by BIM technology, specifically the roles of the MEP designer and the MEP contractor. 

 

Currently, there are five different MEP design workflow scenarios that exist. They are as follows:

1. Traditional 2D design and 3D BIM coordination
2. 3D MEP design and 3D BIM coordination
3. Designers 3D BIM design and coordination
4. Contractor 3D BIM design and coordination
5. General contractor 3D model coordination

It is the third workflow that Is becoming increasingly popular. Let’s look at why that is so.

Designers 3D BIM MEP Design and Coordination

This MEP design workflow method is a direct consequence of BIM and promotes the benefit of BIM more significantly, as it gets closer to the ‘virtual design and construction’ aims of the industry. In this workflow, the approach of the design engineer is to create a BIM model that is spatially coordinated, using the actual specified components for the project. Typically, the consultant during this phase will have more time to create the model, allowing him to absorb the changes from structural and architectural disciplines as they progress through the detailing stages. Since the model is then coordinated with the structure and architecture as well as other MEP services, the consultant can create a model according to installation standards and which is more usable by an installer or fabricator.

When the model in this workflow method is passed on to a contractor, the contractor may still wish to make final changes and adjustments in a round of value engineering. Typically, the contractor will use the same model in this workflow and make changes to the model provided by the MEP design consultant. Additionally, it is probable that the consultant engineer will not have provided invert (height) levels or dimensions from gridlines and walls for the MEP services on his drawings. In such cases the contractor will therefore have to create more detail in the drawings, but again, the contractor could use the consultant’s drawings and progress them in more detail for his/her use. This design workflow will require competent BIM coordination and MEP modelling teams and resources. XS CAD, with its large MEP coordination team and MEP engineering design team, which consists of mechanical and electrical engineering professionals, is well placed to deal with such projects for companies based in the USA, UK, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. As all are regions where BIM is now the preferred solution, XS CAD, with more than 16 years’ experience and a presence in each market is an ideal option for such companies.

Key to Success in Implementing VDC

The virtual building design industry is seeing an upward trend worldwide and one of the key components driving this trend is the successful implementation of VDC. Virtual design and construction (VDC) is a process that provides a single platform for all project stakeholders to collaborate and make changes in a project, while working to budgets and deadlines. One of the main features of VDC is that it uses models and data to encourage regular communication between all stakeholders right till completion. What optimises success with VDC is the contribution of qualified professionals who deliver services quickly and at lower cost.

One of the benefits clients enjoy from the VDC process is that they are provided with building information modelling (BIM) capabilities and information that help in design, project planning and construction. Collaboration between clients and contractors at earlier stages are enabled by the use of VDC. Thus, the need for rework is reduced, and project time and costs are saved.

Changes are managed, workflow is collaborated, and documents are monitored in VDC. By identifying key goals, technical concerns are addressed early on. A cloud-based working environment helps collaboration in VDC. BIM in the construction industry facilitates the creation of a single model from design specifications, RFIs and equipment data sheets, helping clients monitor the progression of the project.

Thus, VDC helps firms to:

• Envision, modify and improve a project without wasting time or materials
• Collaborate between contractors or subcontractors and clients
• Establish sustainable elements into design
• Track labour, materials and schedules for project completion
• Provide digital delivery of plans for fabrication

Consultants and MEP professionals must work effectively for the overall success of the VDC process. Consultants manage design, but coordination and installation are usually handled by separate trades – mechanical, electrical, plumbing, etc. Smooth implementation of VDC benefits all stakeholders concerned. By using BIM 360 Glue or Revit BIM software tools during design phase coordination, the model can be sent from design to construction. Also, coordination in VDC facilitates prefabrication. BIM modelling tools in VDC streamlines MEP coordination, identifying and resolving conflicts.

The results of successful and effective VDC implementation include:

• Complete fabrication of MEP elements
• Reduction of rework for mechanical subcontractors 
• Less conflicts at field installations
• Fewer RFIs occur in MEP coordination
• Significant savings in cost and time

Usually, coordination and installation are carried out by separate trades in the VDC process. Each may not have enough skills or resources to fully implement effective VDC, so profitable and timely delivery of projects could benefit from the right design partner. 

Advantage of Overseas VDC Experts

General contractors usually have their own teams, but they do not always have enough modelling resources or the required skillset. VDC implementation requires expertise in handling precise data with the right tools.

It is, therefore, preferable to employ a VDC expert from the relevant disciplines, who brings technical knowhow and experience in BIM virtual construction to the table. Western firms increasingly find that such experts are being located overseas, especially with experienced partners who have a large pool of qualified technical professionals and extensive experience working in the US, UK and other Western markets, leading to accurate design services, greater profits and on-time deliveries.

Benefits of Collaboration for Revit (C4R) in Construction

Construction projects today involve teams working simultaneously from wide-ranging geographical areas, across towns, states or even countries. These teams coordinate on the same project at the same time, using a work-sharing method that is efficient, transparent and extremely accurate. Revit Architecture services used with Collaboration for Revit (C4R) for 3D BIM coordination plays an important role in fulfilling this requirement. 

A cloud-based worksharing tool, Collaboration for Revit (or C4R) is hosted on the cloud. BIM 360 Team (formally A360 Team) is required for users wishing to upload Revit files to C4R. In the event that a stakeholder does not have Revit and C4R, they can use a web browser to access BIM 360 Team for ‘view only’ access, which provides a range of marking up and viewing formats to use. They can preview models, upload and download other project documents too. All team members can access central models stored in a file at a network location. 

As cloud computing is increasingly used for storage, sharing and hosting of models, the need to use a tool that brings a team together with minimal training time and maintenance is required. Using BIM 360 Team, C4R provides access to, and collaboration on, central Revit models on the cloud to project teams across varied disciplines, locations and companies, so that stakeholders from any location can add, delete or modify elements of the project at any point. This way, changes can be reviewed by others and necessary action can be taken. In effect, C4R allows countrywide or international teams to work simultaneously across different time zones and collaborate in real-time, a form of Revit work sharing.

C4R Uses BIM 360 Team: C4R hosts a Revit model in a centralised location called the BIM 360 Team Hub. A BIM 360 Team Hub must be created before a model can be shared via C4R. Thus, the cloud can be used to share, store and communicate. 

For Revit users, C4R need not be separately installed. It is part of Revit and provides several options in the ‘Collaborate’ tab. Revit users will however need to be assigned to a BIM 360 Team project to use C4R features. 

Easy Communication: C4R Communicator is a chat feature in Revit, with extras. Communicator connects users in the same model, in a different model but same project, or in a completely different C4R project. Chats are in real time and communication includes sending messages, files, screen shots from Revit and even the chat log. Timeline tracks comments, who is synchronising in real time, who completed and when it was completed.

Integrated Project Delivery: C4R facilitates the sharing of server requirements and centralised systems by joint design ventures from separate locations. This allows architects and engineers to communicate and share data easily and practice informed decision-making.

Cloud-based Technology: 

Since most C4R tools are cloud-based, methods and client involvement enjoy almost total flexibility, greatly reducing downtime and rework. 

• Management – Permissions and restrictions set up in a BIM 360 Team project in Revit help manage the models.
• BIM 360 Integration – Stakeholders, non-Revit users also, can view, comment and mark up models through a browser.
• Communicator Tool – Communications can be on direct, real-time chat in C4R, within BIM project models.
• Publishing Tool – Models and 2D sheets in the cloud are published with the default 3D view, allowing communication between disciplines after updating changes. 

Financially, C4R projects save an average of 30 minutes per individual team member every week. Over an entire year, this could mean that C4R can pay for itself while providing significant advantages to project teams.

Technical Issues and Autodesk Support

The platform is actively supported by Autodesk to ensure uptime. Some examples of technical issues and how they are dealt with include:

When there are bottlenecks in the code, capacity scaling under varying loads, intermittent connectivity: -Product teams across the cloud ensure that services have the right approaches and architecture to carry out their operations consistently and with high levels of reliability.

When there are degradations or outages - Services are designed so that dependencies are ‘soft’ and don't bring down core products.

When there is deviation from operational behaviour - Services are constantly logging operation results for ‘health checks’. Notifications of deviation of behaviour occur within minutes and can be rectified quickly. In addition, data trends are studied for usage patterns to improve capacity. 

Ultimately, C4R may be a better fit for many firms that require easy-to-use and easy-to-operate cloud-based solutions for collaborating on their projects. Unlike so many forerunners in the online collaboration industry, C4R actually allows collaboration and working on the same model and files rather than act as a sophisticated file exchange system.