Newforma X PBC on-demand webinar: AECO collaboration insights on quality and efficiency

Carl Storms, technical solutions lead at Newforma, presents the latest PBC Today Webinar – AECO Collaboration: Strategies for Quality Improvement and Time Efficiency

With over 500,000 users in 1,500+ firms globally, Newforma technology streamlines communication, simplifies administration, and enables real-time collaboration across the entire construction project lifecycle.

Hosted by Newforma, the webinar was led by Carl Storms, technical solutions lead at Newforma.

The session featured engaging discussions on a range of topics, facilitated through live polls and a real-time Q&A, enriching the experience with real-life case studies and scenarios.

Collaboration vs coordination

Carl kicks off the webinar by underscoring the importance of collaboration within the AECO Industry and how Newforma Konekt acts as a catalyst for collaborative efforts.

In order to understand the importance of collaboration within the industry, it is imperative that we first understand the difference between collaboration and coordination.

As Carl noted, coordination is the ‘process of organising people into groups so that they work well together’.

Often described as a ‘necessary evil,’ coordination meetings are important for understanding project documentation and potential clashes and empowering workers with the tools to customise work processes.

It is also important to ensure that the right people are involved in these meetings, ensuring a culture of collaboration.

Carl notes the importance of positive reinforcement during these coordination meetings, for instance, creating a list of how the project can be improved and how you can implement this into your BIM execution plan.

Collaboration in the construction industry is crucial

Carl defines collaboration as a ‘voluntary process’ within the AECO industry, which brings people and data together.

Collaborative efforts aim to identify and solve problems together, understanding the implications of each action within the broader context of the project’s goals.

Carl discusses how to manage when not everyone is eager to collaborate. Whilst it’s beneficial to have the majority on board with collaborative efforts, it’s also essential to understand and address the reasons behind some team members’ reluctance.

This resistance might stem from unfamiliarity with the project’s technology or the nature of the project itself.

Therefore, investing time in these individuals can enhance project outcomes and foster a more inclusive and collaborative environment.

The discussion also touches on the necessity of openness and knowledge sharing to bring everyone onto the same page.