Key takeaways from the Digital Game Changers with Tilbury Douglas roundtable

The T.D Connect Configurator provides a web-based application for smarter and more efficient creation of concept designs using approved standardised layouts. The flexible platform can design whole buildings, by placing individual rooms which include building components.

Using prefabricated models and the latest 3D technology, T.D Connect Configurator allows for more detail and information to be created earlier in the project. This gives clients data at their fingertips, so they can make informed data driven decisions, based on live cost, carbon and time estimates provided by the Configurator as you design the building.

With the T.D Connect Configurator providing editable RIBA stage 3 building layouts, it is also able to reduce the rework typically seen in the development of detailed designs, streamlining what is normally a very iterative design process.

T.D Connect Configurator Benefits:

• Resolves the challenges in retaining valuable knowledge and expertise between projects. It preserves the hard-won lessons
• Streamlines operations and optimises assets through a shared digital platform based on cloud data represented in a simple low data volume GUI. “Show, Don’t Tell”
• The advanced digital tools prioritise standardisation, cost savings, and program benefits, delivering the best "Right First Time" outcome for any project.
• Includes tailored solutions, and the digital module technology approach allows it to continually assess and upgrade the tools to meet the needs of Clients.
• Enables the seamless exchange of information between various systems such as BIM applications, Common Data Environments, CAFM and DfMA.
• Designers, project teams, and stakeholders can communicate effectively and transparently, reducing the risk of duplicated data, information loss, and software compatibility issues.

Audience at the roundtable discussed the advantages of utilising T.D Connect on NHS and Education projects, especially for calculating carbon, something that public sector is struggling with.

When speaking about Digital Twin integration the audience concluded that public sector needs to invest more time implementing Digital Twins within their strategies. Commonly we find at the end of the project when design teams pass on the 3D model to the client, the client does not have in-house software to make the most of this data. Considering the cost to the client and time it takes to create this, it’s really important investments are made to make the most of this data. If this is common for majority of Clients then Digital Twins are out of the question.

The participants find that Estate teams have such tight programmes and pressures, they don’t have the time to stop and change their current processes to integrate innovative software. Even though it is likely it will significantly improve project programmes and data storage, it is still too new to be widely used. It is likely that once the new generation comes into the industry, we will see a change. We may even see cross sector employment opportunities once construction becomes more Digital.

In conclusion, the Tilbury Douglas Connect System marks a shift in the landscape of building design. It can improve: client engagement; collaboration with design teams; efficiencies in design process; support decision making via immersive tech; and is a base for Digital Twin delivery. As we navigate through these innovative platforms, it is crucial for all stakeholders adapt to these changes to create a more efficient, cost effective and carbon neutral projects. The technology is clearly at our fingertips we just need to adapt to using it!