#Japan #construction #Tokyo #BIM #Architect Developer

A New Era of Cost-Effective Construction with BIM by Architect Developer, Inc.

In a groundbreaking announcement, Architect Developer, Inc., based in Chuo-ku, Tokyo, has revealed a significant advancement in the construction industry. The company has successfully implemented Building Information Modeling (BIM) workflows, resulting in an average cost reduction of 1.41% across their projects. This achievement highlights the effectiveness of digital transformation (DX) in the construction sector.

The construction industry has been grappling with structural challenges such as disparities in productivity based on company size, severe labor shortages, and high turnover rates. To address these issues, there has been a critical need for a shift from traditional fragmented information management to an integrated digital framework. Architect Developer has embraced this change, initiating the use of BIM in 2021 to create a seamless workflow that spans from planning to design and procurement. Their approach to harnessing information throughout a building's lifecycle has led to tangible benefits and improved efficiency.

This impressive outcome was presented by the company's design development team members, Munekazu Ishii and Chiemi Nakamura, during the Graphisoft National Roadshow held on June 4th. Their presentation, titled "The Future of OPEN BIM: Navigating DX Operations in Design and Cost Management," received significant attention as a case study of DX advancement in the construction field.

Achievements from BIM Implementation

Implementation Overview

• - BIM Workflow Execution: Begin 100% BIM conversion of proposal drawing creation starting from July 2024.
• - Cost Reduction: Realized an average cost saving of 1.41% based on seven completed projects.
• - Material Waste Reduction: Successfully minimized over-ordering of flooring materials, contributing to reduced construction waste by managing 54 buildings covering 286 tsubo (approximately 943 square meters).

Background of Implementation

Architect Developer operates on a one-stop basis, covering everything from land utilization and design to construction and property management. With more than 50,000 rental apartment units under management in the Tokyo metropolitan area and a commendable occupancy rate of over 99% for 13 consecutive years, the company recognizes the necessity for accurate property data management for sustained long-term operations. Particularly, their property management services include a commitment to maintaining properties for a minimum of 30 years, making the adoption of BIM essential.

Implementation Process

Following the decision to introduce BIM in November 2021, Architect Developer successfully completed the system for outputting quantities for cost estimation based on BIM models in under a year. Full operational use commenced in July 2024. During this transition, the team faced a challenge labeled "the gap between ideal and reality." However, they adapted by prioritizing ease of use and manageability, leading to a company-wide restructuring that enabled the sharing of Archicad, increasing its usage rate in design planning to 100% in the same month as the organizational shift.

Future Prospects

Looking ahead, Architect Developer is focused on several key initiatives:

• - Starting in 2026, they will adapt to BIM verification applications.
• - Digitalization of finishing tables and color schemes.
• - Validation of plan volume automation.

The initial BIM promotion team, which commenced with five members, has now expanded to 12, demonstrating the company's broad commitment to utilizing BIM effectively. In the future, all departments, not just design and estimation, will engage with BIM data, building a collaborative structure based on a unified BIM model.

Under the motto "Creating beautiful lifestyles through housing," Architect Developer, Inc. continues to strive to contribute to people's lives by innovating optimal solutions in real estate management and working towards a prosperous future.

For more information about Architect Developer and their innovative projects, visit their official website: architect developer, Inc..