CIC BIM2050 Group publishes Built Environment 2050: A Report on our Digital Future

Increase in ‘engineering-to-order’ will shake up manufacturing industryThe BIM2050 group, which was formed by the Construction Industry Council (CIC) in September 2012 and comprises 18 young construction professionals under the Chairmanship of David Philp, Head of BIM, HM Government UK BIM Task Group, has today published its much anticipated Built Environment 2050: A Report on our Digital Future.

The report, a compilation of essays authored by BIM2050 work stream leads, 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 focus of the report rests 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.

Speaking on publication, David Philp, BIM2050 Chair said: “The digital economy is fundamentally transforming the way we live and work and the UK construction industry will not be immune. 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.”

Neil Thompson, BIM2050 Vice Chair added: “The economic environment is rapidly shifting, and whatever the outcome, the construction of social and economic infrastructure will remain a core activity for firms and governments. This report looks at the role of digital and integrated technology, and its impact on the built environment. Future leaders in construction need to be ready to adapt to the turbulent and disruptive nature of innovation. The prediction of the future is not a feasible subject to report on, but combining emerging technologies with the economic impact of past, now mature technologies, we can highlight what industry and academia need to be aware of when thinking about the future of their respective organisations.”

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