EllisDon set out to deploy and optimize a carefully implemented combination of the most advanced digital construction tools available in the industry. The Schwartz Reisman Innovation Centre, the University of Toronto’s latest addition to the MaRS district and Toronto’s central hub for AI/ML research, was the perfect match for this “full circle” tech deployment.
General Contractors are met with increasingly fragmented. digital solutions that require a more orchestrated approach if larger industry-wide challenges are to be addressed. In building a space for critical research and innovation, EllisDon sought to address old challenges with new solutions. One of the main challenges we face on all projects is effectively communicating information across all stakeholders. At the very early stage of mobilization, the team was faced with three typical projects challenges. Site access and material handling were a major challenge, as were project scheduling and multi-trade coordination. The first major challenge is the building site, which is on the corner of University Avenue and College Street, with very narrow setbacks from the road and extremely limited access for deliveries. The second project challenge was the fast-track project schedule with a fixed deadline of substantial completion for students returning in the fall semester. The third project challenge was the coordination of installation between all of the building systems and trade workers. In addition to these typical challenges, we introduced a variety of digital tools to address them individually. The introduction of these tools created their own unique challenges by generating enormous amounts of data with many connection points as well as buy-in and validation of the technology.
When deploying new technology within a project or organization, there must be adequate planning and support to oversee the successful integration and adoption. One of the major challenges still facing the industry is the human factor. Technology is advancing much faster than it takes to build trust and knowledge within the people using it. This challenge enabled us to utilize Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) in a practical construction environment. This allowed for a unique opportunity to validate the technology and contribute to advanced AI learning models that will be tailored to the construction industry. There is immense pressure when testing a new tool that involves revolutionary technology, where decisions have costly impacts and a slim margin for errors. It takes great courage and leadership to face these risks testing new technology for the greater good of the industry. If the individual tool does not prove to be a success, the lessons learned throughout the process contribute to the collective knowledge and understanding of our peers.
EllisDon’s desire to implement a more consciously optimized combination of digital tools is representative of a similar need across the industry.
The solution we have developed effectively addresses the challenges posed by the ever-changing landscape of projects and BIM deliverables. When a General Contractor implements technologies or processes, it does not have to stick with those means and methods. Project timelines are often several years and technologies make large advancements in that time. The ultimate solution is leveraging new technologies as they arise and improving your project delivery as you go. What ultimately lead to the success of delivering this project was a more digitally focused, AI technology supported solution that provides accessible data like never before. The umbrella solution was a cohesive mesh to make the technology and tools usable. Just as BIM is not a software but a process, piloting new tools should not just be seen as trying software but a process of discovering potential improvements, limitations and pushing the envelope.
Our digital project approach leverages construction management tools that utilize recent AI advancements, providing us with remarkable progress tracking accuracy levels within the range of 1-2%. Moreover, EllisDon did not simply roll out AI tools, we worked tirelessly with the tech provider to improve the software as a solution. Integrating it in a more organic way into our current processes and the overall construction industry.
This solution would not be achievable without the ability to adapt and overcome challenges, along with the willingness and determination of the entire group aligned with a shared vision. Our approach is the establishment of centralized data, accompanied by integrated platforms, user friendly tools, and advanced technologies. Ultimately, we successfully proved that AI technology has the potential to solve common challenges in the industry.
EllisDon was involved in close collaboration with two tech companies to develop innovative software and tools tailored explicitly for the construction industry. These cutting-edge solutions encompass a wide range of functionalities aimed at enhancing project efficiency and streamlining processes.
To start, we focused on improving the measuring capabilities within ICP’s 3D models. This improvement allowed us to achieve more accurate measurements, leading to precise planning and execution of construction tasks.
On one platform in particular, a significant breakthrough came with the development of several modules. These modules enable the generation of pull plans, 3-week look-aheads, and weekly work plans. This added functionality to the platform and created more of a 1 stop shop, eliminating the segmented data.
Throughout the development process EllisDon provided valuable feedback and requested specific modifications to the platform, which were then developed and implemented. These included more robust filters across various dashboard areas, ensuring efficient data analysis and reporting.
Additionally, we suggested and received a centralized location to provide an overview of schedules, floor plans, and variance trends, fostering a holistic view of the project’s progress. By leveraging these new and innovative formats, technologies, and tools, EllisDon significantly improved our construction management processes, fostered enhanced collaboration, data-driven decision-making, and ultimately delivered a successful and efficient project.
The collaboration with one of the tech companies yielded substantial and quantifiable results, as evidenced by a “big update” at the end of the year. Notably, 70% of the significant changes introduced were enhancements and add-ons proposed by EllisDon. These improvements were strategically aimed at enhancing interoperability with the construction industry, fostering wider adoption of the platform and its associated tools.
Following the implementation of these modifications, the usage of the construction management tool by our teams surged by an impressive 80% over the course of a year. This considerable increase in utilization demonstrated the enhanced value and effectiveness of the platform, as a result of the
collaborative efforts. To assess the tangible impact of these changes, case studies were conducted, comparing the input versus the output. These studies measured the time invested in utilizing the construction management tool against the time saved in the long run. Initially, the Input vs. Output ratio stood at 2.5, indicating a moderate efficiency level.
With the implementation of all updates and improvements, we achieved a substantial I/O ratio of 4.2. This notable improvement is attributed to the successful automation of various processes, such as schedule import/export updates, and in-house model upgrades to attain the desired Level of Development (LOD) for more accurate data and heightened trust in the system.
In summary, the results of our collaboration and innovative enhancements were highly positive, fostering improved efficiency, increased platform adoption, and a substantial reduction in manual efforts. The case studies and data showcase the quantifiable benefits of our collaborative approach in the construction management industry.
The following are some of the open standards for data exchanged that were used on this project:
Buildots: Uses Autodesk Platform Services as it is BIM graphics engine. This platform facilitates the integration of all 3D model formats, such as .rvt, .ifc.
BIM 360: This was the common data environment (CDE) used for live model collaboration and exchange.
Schedule Data Exchange
Primavera: We employed Primavera’s scheduling software, renowned for its adherence to open standards. We exchanged the schedule in .xml format. This enables efficient data exchange related to project timelines, task assignments, and resource allocation.
Gate Three: To enhance data accessibility, Gate Three is developed as an open standard platform. It facilitates the exchange of crucial project information among various stakeholders, including trades, clients, and consultants. This ensures transparent communication and real-time access to project updates.
For capturing on-site visual information, we incorporated 360 photo data exchange. This technology allows us to capture immersive images of the construction site, providing comprehensive visual documentation and aiding in decision-making.
By adhering to these open standards, we ensured seamless data exchange between diverse systems, promoting collaboration, and enhancing project efficiency throughout the construction management process.
The proposed solution holds the potential to make a positive impact on industry best practices and processes, making it highly relevant for the construction industry. The following key benefits highlight its significance:
In summary, this solution has broad-reaching implications for the construction industry. From improving efficiency and cost-effectiveness to addressing workforce challenges, the implementation of advanced technologies and collaborative efforts fosters a more sustainable, efficient, and resilient construction sector overall.
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The submission’s “full circle tech” approach has the potential to create a broader impact that significantly improves our civilization. By pushing the boundaries of Artificial Intelligence and leveraging it to enhance construction processes, this innovative solution goes beyond immediate project benefits and offers broader advantages for society.
The submission’s emphasis on AI-driven construction management sets a precedent for further advancements in AI technology. By pushing AI to improve its capabilities and efficiency, this submission contributes to the overall development and progress of AI, which has far-reaching implications for various industries and aspects of our lives. The adoption of the AI construction management tool enables the early detection and prevention of errors, reducing material waste significantly. This promotes sustainability and environmental responsibility
Remote viewing and inspections made possible by the Buildots platform led to a reduction in on-site visits, enhancing worker safety and reducing unnecessary travel, translating to lower carbon emissions and a safer work environment.
The collaborative nature of this submission promotes teamwork and information sharing within the construction industry. By encouraging knowledge exchange and transparent collaboration, this approach can lead to industry-wide improvement in construction practices. The willingness to invest 100+ hours in developing and improving these tools without proprietary interests demonstrates a commitment to the greater good of the industry. Encouraging ethical sharing of knowledge and innovations contributes to a positive and constructive industry ecosystem, fostering collective growth and development.
