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In the second of a series of articles about the pilot Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) contract underway at CFB Petawawa, we explore how technology is reducing waste while increasing efficiency and client satisfaction.

Measure twice, cut once. Throughout the ages, carpenters have used that old saw to get the job done right. One might say the Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) pilot project for the Royal Canadian Dragoons in Petawawa does the same thing, only on a much larger scale.

Through state-of-the-art Building Information Modelling (BIM) software, coupled with real-time online client-contractor collaboration, DCC can monitor progress across all design and construction disciplines and de-conflict where necessary. 3D imaging and "virtual" walk-throughs even allow clients to "try before they buy." While BIM is nothing new, integrating the platform, along with mandatory, real-time, collaborative inputs as bone fide requirements, is.

"Information modelling and collaboration are key requirements in this contract," says Ryan Maher, DCC Program Leader. "Every week, for example, each of the disciplines publishes their updated model so, if say, ductwork is cutting through structural steel then the software can run a clash detection and provide a summary of where all the pieces intersect. It's nice to have visibility on all the parties instead of just having the general contractor or architect involved."

In terms of value to the Crown, these requirements enable the overall goals of IPD — reducing waste and increasing efficiency, says Marcy Burton, Regional Service Line Leader, Construction Services in the DCC Ontario Region.

"This particular contract methodology, combined with the collaborative tools we have, put all parties in a collaborative space working together up front, reviewing designs as they're being developed, which avoids costly delays on the job site. The technology piece allows that.

"It's all about spending the right energy at the right time, which is really, really important and really unique with this approach."




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