MIPIM 2016 Wrap Up – Vision for the Future

Peter Buchan discusses a vision for a fundamentally different construction industry.

BIM is about much more than efficient and risk free construction documentation.  It also provides potential for new tools which release the constraints for construction and design professionals allowing fresh and innovative work methods across multiple time zones.

The innovative work of Ryder’s sister company, BIM Academy, brings expertise in digital engineering and asset management to the sector.  We regularly test different and diverse forms of practice.  Engaging annually in the international Build Live competition has given us a valuable platform to experiment and provided interesting outcomes and new methodologies.

The most recent competition Build Earth Live – New York, created an opportunity for architects, urban designers, engineers, cost consultants, contractors and facilities managers around the globe to design, test, cost and virtually construct new buildings on a challenging site within a 48 hour time frame.

Beating off stiff international competition Ryder Alliance were named overall winners of the online Building Information Modelling competition which took place from 21 to 23 September with over 60 entrants participating across five countries.

This is a radical approach to design with creativity supported by sophisticated digital technology.  Design isn’t a linear process to be passed from one discipline to another – nor should it logically be divorced from the process of construction and operation.  It’s a fusion of creative minds and multiple skills to solve problems relating to people, society and the future of our planet.

It is this philosophy that led Ryder to form a global alliance of likeminded similar sized practices with expertise in a range of areas such as complimentary sector specialisms, architectural engineering, BIM and sustainability.

The Ryder Alliance shares market intelligence and best practice methods with partnering businesses also benefitting from staff exchanges and the capacity to pursue larger opportunities in a collaborative environment.  The first formal alliance was formed with Australian practice i2C in 2014 whose ethos and entrepreneurial ambition mirrored Ryder.

Further innovation is required due to an increase in multidisciplinary global consultancies predominantly consisting of large firms based in the United States  established through the acquisition of financially vulnerable practices.  An international move towards integrated cross disciplinary working – BIM being a catalyst – also provides opportunities for smaller established practices.  As the global market continues to emerge from recession clients seek talented people with a passion for delivering the highest level of service, international standards and architectural design.

We must engage with the next generation to ensure they view our industry as a crucial factor in the future survival, prosperity and wellbeing of society.  Understanding the value of interdisciplinary learning is central to developing a holistic awareness of the interrelationship between art, humanities, science and technology.

Along with other industry partners Ryder are campaigning for a new approach in attracting the brightest talent into the built environment.  Through new work experience, apprenticeship and degree programmes the goal is to readdress the skill sets and attitudes of those entering the sector and begin to redefine the industry itself.

If you wish to know more about Ryder Alliance and BIM Academy please contact us.

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