Building Information Modeling (BIM) MLM is an important and influential local Engineering Consultancy. Currently on Eureka Park, Ashford they employ over 30 staff in the Ashford Office and over 300 employees nationally.
We spoke with their office Director Toby Crayden... How has BIM affected MLM? BIM fits with the MLM ethos of multidisciplinary working in a 3D environment. We pride ourselves on the way we work across different disciplines, whether they be MLM teams or other companies engaged on a project. We place different disciplines not only side by side in our offices but also create single project delivery teams under the direction of an internal project coordinator where the project would benefit from this approach. So the
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ethos and mindset is already there, leaving us with software and protocols to master. Has the software element come easily? We invested early in software and training and this has paid dividends now with several live BIM schemes on the books and many others successfully delivered. The challenge has been developing our skills at a consistent rate across the business given the different needs and expectations of Clients. Flash in the Pan or the future of the Industry? The future of the Industry is in better
ThinkingBUSINESS August-September 2014
cross discipline co-ordination, faster and more accurate design which leads to quicker cost forecasting, programming and identification of value engineering opportunities. The challenge is having all stakeholders bought in to the process and willing to embrace the concept for the best results to be achieved. What’s your best investment? People, first and foremost. It’s a people Industry and investing in individuals, and equipping them with the skills and technology so that they reach their full potential personally and professionally.
What’s your next investment? I expect 3d printing technology will be a useful investment in the short/medium term, although this may already be showing signs of being superseded by Conran and Beagle with their interactive hologram display technology. As the complexity of 3D design work increases the challenge will be making sure designs are understood and accessible.