The industry needs to prepare for the transformative impact of digital technologies on its operations and workforce, concludes a new report by the BIM 2050 group. And it suggests that younger professionals in the industry today will eventually work in a world that features advanced technologies such as auto-procurement, self-assembling structures and self-healing materials.
The BIM2050 group is chaired by David Philp, head of BIM at the government’s BIM Task Group. The report is the result of the group’s research into what an interdisciplinary scope of work may look like as construction technology develops to BIM Level 3 and beyond, towards 2050. It provides an assessment of the current situation and makes proposals for future development. The report focuses on three key areas – education and skills, technology and process and the culture of integration. It highlights the risks and challenges, and the opportunities and benefits that come with large-scale innovation and game-changing new technologies.
“The digital economy is fundamentally transforming the way we live and work and the UK construction industry will not be immune,” said David Philp. “It is essential therefore that organisations, academia and individuals are prepared to adjust to potentially radical changes, they must question if they are moving quickly enough to make the necessary adaptations, which are often complex. This report envisions what the construction industry may be like come 2050 against the backdrop of a digitised built environment and what interventions should be considered if they are to be future-wise and seize the opportunity that an innovative and technologically-advanced future offers.”
