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Unlocking the power of asset information in building operations – with Steven Boyd MBE

In conversation with Steven Boyd MBE

The way we manage asset information is transforming the built environment, ensuring compliance, efficiency and long-term value for asset owners.

In our latest video interview, Lucas Cusack of Glider sits down with Steven Boyd MBE, a seasoned expert in the field, to discuss the evolving landscape of asset information management.

Who is Steven Boyd MBE?

Steven is the former Chief Executive of the Government Property Agency (GPA), where he led the transformation of the UK Government’s office property portfolio. Before that, as HMRC’s Estates Director, he oversaw the development of 13 major office buildings and significantly reduced the estate’s footprint. With deep expertise in government estates, property optimisation, and digital innovation in asset management, Steven shares his valuable insights into the evolving role of data in the built environment.

Themes discussed in the interview

In this interview Steven and Lucas explore the key themes that are shaping the industry, including:

  • The growing importance of structured data for building operations
  • The role of digital twins in futureproofing asset management
  • How compliance and regulation are driving the need for better information
  • The challenges and opportunities in bridging the gap between construction and operations

This insightful discussion offers a glimpse into the strategies and technologies that are transforming how asset information is managed throughout the building lifecycle. Whether you’re an asset owner looking to optimise your estate, or a main contractor focused on seamless project handovers, this conversation is packed with valuable insights.

Watch the full interview

Ready to dive in? Watch the full interview here:

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SharePoint vs AIM CDE – What asset owners need to know

Is SharePoint up to the challenge?

Many building owners and facilities managers find themselves at a crossroads when deciding how to store and manage their critical asset data. Often, tools like SharePoint are the go-to solution but are they really up to the challenge of managing asset information effectively? We explore why a purpose-built Asset Information Management Common Data Environment (AIM CDE) offers a better way of managing information for successful building operations.

Maximising your investment

When managing your building or estate, every square metre of your estate represents an investment. This isn’t just the physical space but the people, processes and technology that keep it running smoothly. That investment requires accurate, accessible and actionable information at every stage of the asset lifecycle. From design and construction to operations and eventual decommissioning, your data needs to be accurate to support informed decision-making.

SharePoint’s shortcomings

This is where SharePoint often falls short. While it’s a powerful platform for file storage and collaboration, it wasn’t designed for the complexities of building information management. Structuring data to reflect the nuances of your assets – their hierarchies, relationships, version history and attributes – can be cumbersome and prone to inconsistency. SharePoint lacks the built-in frameworks and tools that a dedicated CDE offers, leaving you to wrestle with custom configurations and workarounds.

Managing data

SharePoint manages files not data. Each file in SharePoint has a file name and limited metadata options, such as the date and location for pictures or basic attributes for Word and PDF documents. However, SharePoint cannot store detailed information like work package, contractor, zone, level, building or revision status. This limitation makes it hard to index, find and filter information. Additionally, SharePoint doesn’t provide an integrated approval workflow for documents, adding another layer of complexity.

More than just spreadsheets

To store data in SharePoint, it must be within a container or file, such as an Excel spreadsheet. Most asset registers are stored in Excel files, making them difficult to maintain and prone to duplication. Additionally, there are limitations in connecting the assets within the asset register to their corresponding documents and models, which is critical for effective asset management.

A single source of truth for building information

An Asset Information Management Common Data Environment (AIM CDE) is purpose-built to handle the challenges of managing asset information. It’s designed to be a single source of truth for your building data, consolidating everything from BIM models and O&M manuals to IoT sensor readings and maintenance schedules. With structured data, intuitive interfaces and robust governance, an AIM CDE ensures that your information is structured, accurate, up-to-date and easy to retrieve.

A tool designed for collaboration

When it comes to collaboration, SharePoint enables teams to work together on documents, but an AIM CDE elevates collaboration to a whole new level. When your operations team needs to quickly locate information about a specific asset, this information is interconnected and easily searchable. In SharePoint, it might be buried in a labyrinth of folders or mislabelled files, causing delays and frustration.

Futureproofing asset information

The benefits extend beyond day-to-day operations. With an AIM CDE, you’re futureproofing your asset management practices. As buildings become smarter and more connected, the ability to integrate new technologies seamlessly depends on having a robust, structured data environment. Whether it’s leveraging digital twins, automating maintenance tasks or meeting emerging compliance standards, an AIM CDE lays the vital groundwork for innovation.

Viewing spatial data

Spatial data presents another challenge for SharePoint. While SharePoint stores files, opening certain file types such as models, requires downloading them as disconnected copies and using external applications. This can pose security risks or be impractical in certain organisations. In contrast, a CDE offers built-in native viewing capabilities for various file types, including PDFs, Word documents, IFC and NWD model files. This native viewing feature allows users to access models directly and interact with the connected data, seamlessly linking them to other relevant documents and records within the CDE.

The hidden cost of poor data

Another critical advantage of an AIM CDE is its role in mitigating risk. Poorly managed data can lead to costly errors, missed compliance deadlines and even safety issues. A purpose-built solution provides rigorous control over data governance, ensuring that everyone, from contractors to facility managers, is working with the same trusted information. This level of accountability is hard to achieve with general-purpose tools like SharePoint.

A strategic asset

Investing in a CDE isn’t just about technology. It’s about transforming the way you manage your assets. It’s a shift toward treating your information as a strategic asset, one that’s as critical to your estate’s performance as the physical buildings themselves. For asset owners managing complex portfolios, this shift can unlock new efficiencies, reduce costs and enhance the overall value of their properties.

Success for the future

So, while SharePoint might seem like a convenient option at first glance, it’s worth considering if it is serving your needs as an asset owner. It could be time to choose a solution that’s purpose-built for the unique challenges of managing built assets. With an AIM CDE, you’ll be keeping up with the demands of today and setting yourself up for success tomorrow.

For more on how an AIME CDE can benefit your business, get in touch to speak to our team.

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The power of good Asset Information Management

Good Asset Information Management matters

With more complex projects it’s important that the building information delivered is high quality and accurate. This allows it to be used and maintained throughout the asset lifecycle.

Why Main Contractors need good digital handover management

For Main Contractors, delivering comprehensive, high-quality information at practical completion shouldn’t just be a box to tick. Digital handover management can protect against future disputes, expensive warranty claims and potential legal action. Documenting every aspect of the work performed, the materials used and the standards met, can help contractors to safeguard their businesses from post-completion conflicts.

However, there’s also a proactive benefit. When contractors provide asset owners with thorough documentation, they also build trust. This makes it more likely that the asset owner will return for future projects.

Those who excel at delivering clear, comprehensive asset information are more likely to stand out in a competitive market. As clients increasingly seek reliable partners for complex builds, those who consider the information requirements for building operation will be more successful.

Why Asset Owners need good Asset Information Management

Asset owners have a long-term stake in maintaining the integrity of the information they receive at handover. By keeping accurate, accessible records, asset owners are better positioned to manage their properties efficiently. This results in smoother operations, more informed maintenance planning and the ability to make data-driven decisions to optimise the asset’s performance.

Well-documented assets can help asset owners demonstrate the quality of a building when it comes to selling it. Being able to accurately show that the asset has been well looked after during operation, increases its value and desirability to potential buyers or tenants.

Additional resources

You can read more about this in our blog titled ‘Bridging the ‘digital’ gap between construction and building operations’.

Contact us

If you’re a Main Contractor concerned about protecting your future business or an Asset Owner looking to secure long-term building value, get in touch with our team to discuss how we can help.

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Is there too much data?

How much data is too much data?

From Building Information Modelling (BIM) to COBie and digital handover documentation, every step of a building’s lifecycle collects valuable information. The amount of information can be overwhelming, especially if the data isn’t what you need to operate the building. So the answer is yes, the data is essential, but only if it’s the right data.

Building data

The role of BIM and COBie

Building Information Modelling (BIM) has transformed the way we design and build. It enables teams to create a digital representation of a building’s physical and functional characteristics, which can be shared across all stakeholders. Construction Operations Building Information Exchange (COBie) takes this a step further by ensuring that the right information, such as equipment lists, warranties and maintenance schedules, is passed on during the digital handover process.

However, while the technology exists to collect a vast amount of data, how much of it is actually needed?

Historically, contractors would collect vast amounts of information and hand it over at practical completion, only for it to be underutilised. In most cases it isn’t used at all. Facilities managers (FMs) and occupiers can be left sifting through irrelevant data. They almost always have the building resurveyed to get the information they need.

This adds unnecessary costs, time and frustration.

What data is needed?

The asset owner plays a pivotal role in defining what is required, but ultimately this should be a collaborative effort with contractors and facilities managers. Engaging with contractors early in the process to communicate the specific data needed for building operation is critical.
Most of the data collected will be for FM companies or occupiers to manage the building during its operational phase. Whether it’s energy consumption data from mechanical equipment or warranty information for critical systems, this data helps ensure that the building is running efficiently and meets the needs of its occupants. Accurate data also enables quick responses to issues. This ensures proper maintenance is carried out and extends the life of the building’s components.

The benefits for Asset Owners

While facilities managers are the most immediate users of this data, asset owners have much to gain also. When it comes time to sell or dispose of a building, having accurate, comprehensive data can significantly enhance the asset’s value. Potential buyers or investors will want to know about the building’s performance, compliance with afety standards and maintenance history. A well-documented building can command a higher price or rent, as it demonstrates transparency and reduces the buyer’s risk.

Accurate data is also crucial for demonstrating compliance with safety regulations, particularly when it comes to building safety. For high-risk buildings (HRBs), owners must ensure that their assets meet the safety standards. Having reliable data can make the difference between compliance and hefty penalties. Early collaboration between the asset owner and contractor ensures that data handed over at completion is accurate, relevant and useful long after the building is finished.

The benefits for Main Contractors

Main contractors also benefit from providing accurate, structured data at practical completion. Warranty claims can significantly impact a contractor’s profit margins. Inconsistent data or missing documentation can lead to disputes over whether certain work was completed as specified. By delivering comprehensive and accurate information at handover, contractors can protect themselves from costly claims in the future by demonstrating exactly what was delivered.

Avoiding wasted data

In many cases, information handed over at practical completion has proven to be unusable or incomplete. This results in FMs needing to resurvey buildings, a costly exercise that could easily be avoided by getting the data right the first time. This leads to unnecessary additional expenses and delays in maintaining or operating the building effectively.

But it’s not just about capturing data. It’s about capturing the right data. Asset owners need to work with their contractors to ensure that the data being collected is useful, structured and in a format that will support long-term operation. Systems that aren’t useful or utilised are simply a waste of time and money.

Back to basics

As we continue to evolve technologically, it’s easy to get swept up in the latest innovations, from AI-driven building management systems to predictive maintenance tools. However, it’s crucial to get the basics right first. Engaging with contractors early, defining the data needed and ensuring that systems in place are both useful and used should be the priority. From there, buildings can evolve as technology advances. Then new technologies and digital twins can be explored, but only if the groundwork has been laid with accurate, actionable data.

Getting the right data

The amount of data collected in the building lifecycle can indeed be overwhelming, but it is necessary when it’s structured, accessible and valuable for the operation phase. Early engagement between asset owners, contractors and FMs ensures that the data collected during design and construction supports the long-term management of the building. In the end, it’s not about the quantity of data. It’s about having the right data to ensure that buildings operate efficiently, comply with safety standards and retain their value over time.

Systems need to be useful, and more importantly, they need to be used. Otherwise, collecting data is just a waste of time and money.

 

 

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Why contractors should outsource O&M manuals

What are O&M manuals and why are they essential?

O&M manuals serve as a detailed resource for building owners and facility managers, providing critical information, such as:

  • Construction information including materials, finishes and specifications.
  • Maintenance schedules, warranties and commissioning data.
  • Decommissioning guidelines for safe upgrades or demolition

These manuals are mandatory for practical completion. Delays or missing documentation can cause significant setbacks which are frustrating for both the contractor and the client.

Why managing O&Ms in-house can be challenging

Many contractors start with the intention of producing O&M manuals internally. However, the process often becomes more complex than anticipated. Particularly when:

  • Collecting documentation from multiple trades and teams have moved on to other projects.
  • It’s a last minute rush because collecting O&M information is left until the end of the project, and information is incomplete.
  • Administrative staff or junior team members are responsible as they can lack the knowledge to navigate complex requirements.

The benefits of outsourcing O&M manuals

Outsourcing the production of O&M manuals to a specialist provider, such as EDocuments or Glider, offers contractors access to expertise, advanced technology, and efficient processes. Managing O&M documentation can be time-consuming and often pulls skilled staff away from their primary roles. By outsourcing this responsibility, contractors can remain focused on their core activities while leaving the intricacies of documentation to experienced professionals.

Specialist providers use tried and tested templates and processes to produce documentation that is accurate, compliant, and complete. This approach significantly reduces the likelihood of delays at practical completion and minimises potential aftercare issues. Furthermore, outsourcing allows data to be collected and verified early in the construction process. We use digital platforms to centralise and track progress, offering contractors real-time updates and greater transparency throughout the project.

High-quality O&M manuals enhance the handover experience by providing facility managers with the resources needed to operate the building effectively. This not only reduces follow-up queries but also strengthens trust and confidence between contractors and their clients. Additionally, outsourcing enables specialists to establish a realistic budget for O&M manual preparation early on, helping contractors avoid the inefficiency and higher costs associated with last-minute efforts.

Outsourcing to the right partner

When selecting an O&M provider, experience is key. Look for a partner with a proven track record in delivering high-quality documentation for similar projects. A robust software platform that offers real-time tracking and data management is also essential.

The best providers can go beyond basic O&M manuals, offering services like asset register creation, subcontractor coordination and compliance with Employer’s Information Requirements (EIRs).

Why outsourcing O&M manuals is a strategic decision

Outsourcing O&M manual production isn’t just cost-effective. It’s a strategic move to ensure smooth project closeouts, enhance client relationships and safeguard your reputation.

By partnering with industry leaders like Glider and EDocuments, who deliver over 200 projects annually, contractors can tap into a wealth of experience to hit their handover deadlines confidently. We take care of the details, so contractors can stay focused on delivering exceptional projects while leaving the documentation and data management to the experts.

If you’re ready to simplify your next project’s O&M manuals, contact us for a free quote.

Did you know?

Glider Technology acquired EDocuments in September 2024. Together, we’re streamlining building information to ensure project success. This means greater efficiency for contractors and better data for building operations.

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Glider secures spot on Crown Commercial Service’s G-Cloud 14 Framework

Helping the public sector to procure our software and services

The Crown Commercial Service’s (CCS) G-Cloud 14 framework allows public sector organisations to find and procure cloud computing services efficiently. With a simplified procurement process, government bodies, the NHS, local authorities have access to leading-edge cloud solutions.

Glider is listed for Lot 2 (Cloud Software) and Lot 3 (Cloud Support). This means we are perfectly positioned to offer a range of services for managing building and asset data.

Building on past success

Glider was on the G-Cloud 13 framework which led to a number of new contracts with key clients such as Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO), Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (DSTL), Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC).

These high-profile partnerships have demonstrated the strength and security of Glider’s cloud-based services, which are designed to help public sector clients harness the full potential of their building information, ensuring compliance and operational efficiency.

Nick Hutchinson, Glider’s CEO, commented on the achievement: “We are delighted to be named as a supplier on the G-Cloud 14 framework. This is a testament to our commitment to delivering secure, innovative and effective cloud services to the public sector to help them manage and maintain their built estates digitally. Our team looks forward to continuing our work with existing clients and welcoming new ones onboarded through this framework.”

Why G-Cloud 14 matters

G-Cloud 14 will replace G-Cloud 13, offering even more streamlined access to cloud services for public sector organisations. The framework covers three key service areas:

  1. Cloud Hosting Services – For organisations looking to host their infrastructure in the cloud.
  2. Cloud Software Services – Including off-the-shelf solutions, pay-as-you-go services, and custom software designed to meet organisational needs.
  3. Cloud Support Services – Covering everything from ongoing support to cloud management services.

The framework continues to support the participation of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) like Glider. This emphasis on SMEs means that organisations like Glider can provide cutting-edge solutions while maintaining the flexibility and responsiveness needed to meet the unique demands of the public sector.

The links to our software and services are:

Cloud Software

Lot 2 – Asset Information Management Common Data Environment (AIM CDE)

Lot 2 – gliderbim Data Migration Tools

Lot 2 – Digital Handover Platform

Lot 2 – Digital Twin Enablement Platform

Lot 2 – Secure Project Information Management Common Data Environment (PIM CDE)

Cloud Services

Lot 3 – Asset Information Management Common Data Environment (AIM CDE) Implementation and Support

Lot 3 – gliderbim Data Migration Services

Lot 3 – Digital Handover Implementation Services

Lot 3 – Digital Twin Enablement & Support

Lot 3 – Project Information Management Common Data Environment (PIM CDE) Implementation Services

Looking ahead

As part of G-Cloud 14, Glider will continue to support public sector bodies with optimising their built assets and ensuring data compliance. With our focus on security, innovation and delivering value for money, we are excited to embark on this next phase and contribute to the ongoing digital transformation of the UK public sector.

For more information about Glider’s information management services and how we can support your organisation through the G-Cloud 14 framework, get in touch.

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The critical role of information management in building safety

Making information management a priority for building safety

The recent Grenfell Tower Inquiry Report is a stark reminder of the construction industry’s responsibilities for the safety of built assets. As well as condemning the negligence and dishonesty, the report also exposes failures in the information value chain.

Many of these gaps could have been avoided with a more robust and accountable information management system. This is now known as the Golden Thread. The Golden Thread is not just a regulatory requirement but a vital element in maintaining the safety of a building throughout its lifecycle, from design to demolition.

The Golden Thread, as mandated in the Building Safety Act 2022, is intended to guarantee that information about a building’s fire and structural systems is consistently updated, accessible and accurate. With a transparent, comprehensive and secure information system in place, the Golden Thread plays a pivotal role in mitigating or even preventing tragic outcomes like that of Grenfell.

What is the Golden Thread?

The Golden Thread is the foundation of building safety management. It encompasses all the information needed to understand and maintain a building’s safety throughout its lifecycle, from design through to construction, occupation, maintenance and, ultimately, demolition.
It includes all the data and documents necessary to understand and maintain the building’s safety, particularly concerning fire and structural risks.

This information needs to be accurate, accessible and importantly up-to-date. Building Information Modelling (BIM) enables this process, ensuring that data is collected, structured and properly maintained. The Building Safety Act regulation, particularly for Higher-Risk Buildings (HRBs), places legal obligations on asset owners, designers, contractors and operational teams to collect and manage data.

The only way to truly operationalise the Golden Thread is through a centralised, digital system. This is usually an Asset Information Management Common Data Environment (AIM CDE). When properly maintained during operation, it offers an immutable audit trail that shows all changes and decisions made at each stage of the asset’s life cycle.

Maintaining the Golden Thread

One of the most crucial aspects of the Golden Thread is its continuity from the initial design stages through to the eventual demolition of a building. This unbroken record ensures that every decision, modification, and maintenance activity is documented. This enables asset owners and managers to keep the building safe throughout its lifecycle.

At each stage the Golden Thread evolves so it should be regularly updated. This ensures it reflects any structural changes or adjustments to fire safety systems, demonstrating compliance with regulations and safety standards. When the time comes for a building’s demolition, the Golden Thread will still serve as a vital reference, capturing the history of its structural and safety-related decisions.

The Building Safety Case

A key regulatory component introduced by the Building Safety Act is the Building Safety Case. This is essential for demonstrating that fire and structural safety risks are being actively managed throughout the lifecycle of HRBs. It includes all relevant information about a building’s fire safety strategy, structural systems and ongoing maintenance efforts, ensuring that these systems are performing as expected to safeguard occupants.

The Building Safety Case is not a static record.It must be regularly updated and maintained as part of the Golden Thread. The Building Safety Regulator has the authority to request access to the Building Safety Case at any time to verify that safety protocols and records are in place and up to date. Failure to provide this information or to demonstrate ongoing safety management can lead to significant regulatory penalties.

A well-maintained Golden Thread ensures that the Building Safety Case is always available and can be quickly produced when required by the regulator.

The Golden Thread during operation

Operational teams are the driving force for the Golden Thread. They rely on the quality and accessibility of the data provided. For the Golden Thread to succeed, asset owners must update information post-construction, ensuring that any changes, inspections and maintenance records are documented.

The Golden Thread is not a static data set but must evolve with the building’s life. The Construction Leadership Council’s (CLC) latest guidance suggests that this will be extended to a broader range of buildings in the future. The Golden Thread is also key to addressing challenges like net-zero targets and sustainability. This data will not only drive regulatory compliance but also enable potential cost savings and support decision-making.

Reducing risk with data

One of the report’s critical findings from the Grenfell Inquiry was the lack of structured, accessible information on the building’s materials and systems. Asset owners must take proactive measures to survey their buildings, especially older ones, for missing information so they have comprehensive fire and building safety data.

By following ISO 19650 standards and ensuring data is collected in a consistent, structured format, asset owners and operational teams can minimise risks and streamline future inspections, renovations and audits. This is especially crucial for organisations with federated estates that must manage vast amounts of building data across multiple assets.

Are O&M manuals still needed?

While BIM and structured data are critical, documents like O&M manuals and H&S files are still needed. The Golden Thread is not just a collection of data. The combination of documents and structured information provides the essential context to that data. For example, a fire strategy needs a narrative to tie together the data points. This ensures that the strategy is understandable and actionable for those who will maintain the building’s safety. It is the integration of these documents into the O&M manuals and H&S handover files that provides a full picture of the building’s safety framework.

A call for change

The Grenfell Tower Inquiry Report is a clear signal that the industry must change – and quickly. As bans on public sector contracts loom for those companies implicated in unsafe practices, the broader industry must step up to ensure that another tragedy never happens again. This means not only ensuring compliance with existing regulations but embracing a cultural shift toward transparency and accountability.

Here to help

We can help asset owners, contractors and operational teams to implement robust asset information management systems that prioritise safety and compliance.

Get in touch to talk to our team.

 

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How a Digital Soft Landings Manager can add value to building operations

Managing large volumes of data

Building operators often battle with large volumes of data that is generated during construction and then throughout the building’s lifecycle. A typical commercial office building can produce over 10,000 documents, 200+ 3D models and 50,000+ data points during construction alone. When the building is in operation, additional data streams include data from Building Management Systems (BMS) and IoT sensors. Without proper alignment and structuring, this data can be difficult to access and underutilised.

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Adding value to building operations

The Digital Soft Landings Manager can address this misalignment by ensuring that all data is delivered in a structured, accessible and usable format. This includes everything from 3D BIM models to as-built records and operational data. By coordinating these efforts, the Digital Soft Landings Manager can ensure that the data produced during construction aligns with the performance and operational needs of the building.

Discover more about the role of a Digital Soft Landings manager here.

Early engagement and stakeholder alignment

The Digital Soft Landings Manager will engage stakeholders early in the project lifecycle. This ensures the data requirements of the asset owner and operational team are met from the outset. This early involvement enables the Information Requirements to be agreed, so BIM deliverables, operational data points and performance metrics are aligned across the project.

Ensuring data availability for operational teams

The lack of accessible, well-structured data post-handover can lead to inefficiencies in deploying critical operational technology, such as BMS and Computer-Aided Facility Management (CAFM) systems. The Digital Soft Landings Manager can ensure that asset data is available and presented in a format that operational teams can use. This approach helps to reduce the time and cost of deploying systems so building performance can be optimised more quickly.

Bridging the gap between construction and operation

Without a Digital Soft Landings Manager, operational teams may struggle to extract useful information from legacy documents or misaligned datasets. This can impact on their ability to maintain the building efficiently. The Digital Soft Landings Manager can ensure that data from BIM, digital O&M manuals and IoT systems is fully integrated. This provides a solid foundation for ongoing building management and future innovations like AI and machine learning.

You can read more about the importance of bridging the gap between construction and operations here.

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The future of building operations

The long-term value of digital BIM models depends on their use throughout the entire building’s lifecycle. A Digital Soft Landings Manager ensures that these models are not only preserved but also updated and maintained to provide accurate, real-time insights for building managers. This structured data can also be leveraged for advanced technologies, including AI applications, predictive maintenance and smart building optimisations.

The Digital Soft Landings Manager plays a critical role in maximising the value of a building’s data. By ensuring its effective handover and use in operations, they can help asset owners and operators to unlock the full potential of their built assets.

 

For more information on how Glider’s Digital Soft Landings Managers can enhance your project, contact us today.

 

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The secret to soft landing success

Introducing the Digital Soft Landings Manager

The evolution of the traditional Soft Landings and GSL frameworks focuses on the seamless transfer and operational use of data from construction through the entire lifecycle of a building. This is what we call the ‘Digital Soft Landing’.

For those unfamiliar with the concept of Digital Soft Landing, we encourage you to read our previous blog post, Bridging the ‘Digital’ Gap Between Construction and Building Operations, which provides an introduction.

The key to delivering this new standard in digital handover is the Digital Soft Landings Manager. These digital experts complement the implementation of Soft Landings throughout a project’s lifecycle. This involves engaging stakeholders early, aligning digital deliverables between stakeholders in delivery and in operation, facilitating the uptake of data into operational platforms and processes, and maintenance of the data.

Why is a Digital Soft Landings Manager essential?

Currently, asset owners are doing all the right things in procuring good information, with clear Operational Information Requirements (OIRs) and Employer’s Information Requirements (EIRs) in place. Contractors are also delivering 100% compliant data by project completion. Yet, post-construction, this information is often archived or used merely as a static record. Why? Because operational teams may not fully understand what’s in the data, how to use it or how to maintain it.

The Digital Soft Landings Manager plays a critical role in minimising the gap between a building’s design and its actual performance. This is crucial for improving user satisfaction, ensuring value for money and facilitating collaboration among stakeholders. They ensure that buildings are not only well-designed and properly commissioned but also managed effectively to meet the needs of occupants and deliver on sustainability and efficiency targets.

Who appoints the Digital Soft Landings Manager?

The Digital Soft Landings Manager should be appointed by the asset owner or end client. They contribute to the development of the Information Requirements and set the delivery milestones, ensuring these are aligned with the operational team’s needs. During the project, they work closely with all key stakeholders to ensure the availability and accessibility of information.

The impact of not having a Digital Soft Landings Manager

Without a Digital Soft Landings Manager, much of the hard work done during construction, such as delivering an Asset Information Model (AIM), isn’t fully realised. Operational technology takes longer to deploy, as the data vendors could use is either unavailable or not presented in a format they understand.

Operational teams usually need to deploy Building Management Systems (BMS), Computer-Aided Facility Management (CAFM) platforms and services like cleaning and maintenance planning before the project is completed. If they don’t have the necessary data available, they can struggle to extract it from outdated 2D plans or inconsistent data sets. Without a clear data transfer process, this can lead to inconsistencies in space and component naming, causing misalignment between asset data (from construction) and performance data (from operation). A Digital Soft Landing Manager can ensure that operational technology is deployed faster and with greater accuracy, reducing inefficiencies and costs.

An asset owner’s investment in digital models, like BIM, doesn’t end with project completion. The true value comes when these models are actively used in managing the building over its entire lifecycle. A Digital Soft Landing Manager ensures these models are maintained in a format that remains useful to building managers and operators. They can also ensure they have accurate, coordinated data for deeper analysis and AI applications in the future.

Want to learn more?

Stay tuned for our next post, where we’ll explore the specifics of the Digital Soft Landings Manager role and how they can revolutionise the way we approach building handover and operations.

Get in touch to learn more about how our Digital Soft Landings Managers can enhance your project.

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Level up your asset information – 5 reasons to migrate legacy building information

5 reasons why you should migrate your data

1. Compliance

Migrating data into a single platform is essential for maintaining compliance with regulations like the Building Safety Act. It centralises all building information, making it easily accessible and consistently up-to-date. When demonstrating compliance, this consolidation makes it easier to retrieve critical data during audits and inspections. Additionally, it minimises the risk of data breaches and ensures that regulatory requirements are met efficiently, with streamlined processes for auditing and reporting.

2. Collaboration

Migrating your data into a single platform not only centralises all your data and documents, it also creates a collaborative environment for better decision-making. With all information in one place, you can easily analyse trends, track performance and identify areas for improvement. This consolidation also breaks down data silos, ensuring your team has access to the same reliable information. As a result, collaboration becomes more seamless and efficient, leading to faster, more effective outcomes.

3. Future-ready data

Data migration is not just about solving current challenges. It’s about preparing for the future. A unified data platform ensures you are ready to embrace new technologies and modernise facilities. As technology evolves, having consolidated and well-structured data is key to leveraging innovations such as AI, machine learning and smart building technology.

4. Improve efficiency

Scattered information across different systems often leads to duplicated efforts and wasted time. Migrating asset information to a single platform reduces manual data entry and enables the creation of new workflows to automate processes. This boosts efficiency and frees up valuable time for your team to focus on more critical tasks.

5. Increase asset value

Maintaining accurate and comprehensive information during the operation of your asset significantly enhances its value when it comes time to sell or dispose of it. Potential buyers or stakeholders see immense value in well-documented assets, as it provides transparency, reduces perceived risk and demonstrates that the asset has been well-maintained. Accurate records of maintenance, upgrades and operational history can lead to better valuation and smoother transaction processes.

Making data migration simple

Glider’s data migration service simplifies the process of consolidating your legacy information into gliderbim®. With years of experience in data migration, our dedicated team of professionals ensures a smooth and hassle-free transition. We understand the unique needs of the built environment and BIM data, tailoring our solutions to meet your specific requirements.

Proven methodology

Our methodology structures your information with minimal disruption to your operations. We ensure your data is well-organised and ready for immediate use, so you can quickly reap the benefits of data consolidation. To date we have migrated tens of millions of documents into gliderbim®. Our approach, which uses clever technology and machine learning, speeds up the migration process to make it possible to migrate legacy data and documents in minutes, not months – or even years!

Unlock value from your built assets

By migrating your data into gliderbim®, you can unlock the full potential of your built assets. A single source of truth enables better management, enhances decision-making and prepares you for future technological advancements.

Say goodbye to data silos

Unlock the full potential of your built assets with Glider’s data migration service and experience the difference a unified data platform can make.

Get in touch to find out more about our data migration service.