Three smart ways to use data in whole lifecycle asset information management

ISG’s Digital Delivery Manager Sam Norledge shares his key takeaways from his attendance as a panellist at Futurebuild 2023

We know that the accuracy and quality of data has an impact on the reliability and effectiveness of any decision; with high-quality data serving to improve the efficiency of an organisation and reduce the associated risks – from design and construction, to operations.

And when proper processes and systems are put in place, data can be regularly checked, updated, and verified to maintain its quality and relevance.

Joining a panel of experts at the 2023 Futurebuild conference, digital delivery manager for ISG’s UK fit out division, Sam Norledge, delivered his thoughts on the impact of data and smart tech during a building’s development.

From conception to handover, Sam highlights the importance of managing data to drive innovation, unlock growth and create new opportunities for a more sustainable space.

Read Sam’s top three takeaways:

1. Utilise secure structured databases for the procurement stage of asset information lifecycle to ensure accurate data and an efficient process of data sharing

Secure structured databases allow us to collect and validate data on assets to provide consistent data that can be easily shared among stakeholders. Using said databases to create documents, such as digital commissioning and health and safety (H&S) files, will allow businesses to track site daily activities and critical material data to ensure compliance with regulations.

By utilising databases, we’re able to:

• Increase asset lifespan
• Ensure accurate data to help optimise workflows, reduce delays and downtime, and ensure compliance with environmental regulations
• Optimise resource usage
• Create better and more transparent communication 
• Deliver real-time data to help monitor safety performance, identify trends, and mitigate potential risks

All of which will ultimately lead to better and safer project outcomes to enhance the customer experience.

2. Internet of Things (IoT) will improve the in-use stage of the asset information lifecycle 

The Internet of Things (IoT) – otherwise known as a network of physical objects that are embedded with sensors, software, and other technologies – allow us to connect and exchange data with other devices over the internet. 

IoT is transforming the management of asset information through real-time data collection and analysis. By leveraging IoT, we can optimise asset utilisation, minimise downtime, and improve overall efficiency, resulting in better decision-making and increased ROI. 

The accurate naming of an asset, for example a light fitting being referenced as LGT-0001, plays a crucial role in enabling IoT devices to communicate effectively and provide the necessary raw data for system operation. By introducing BIM data validation to this process, trustworthy network data can be utilised in operations and commissioning. 

A well-designed and validated data structure with a semantic naming schema can enable IoT systems to achieve unprecedented levels of efficiency, reliability, and intelligence. By utilising IoT technologies for predictive maintenance and energy metering during the in-use stage, we can standardise end-of-life sustainability data collection and generate structured datasets. This can be validated and mapped with any system, ensuring a successful handover and a satisfied client.

3. Material passport data should be used to review if products are at the end-of-life stage of the asset information lifecycle

Material passports provide detailed information on the materials used on a project; including origin, quality, quantity, composition, performance characteristics, maintenance requirements, and end-of-life options. Enabling project managers to track materials and their environmental impacts, to better optimise resource usage and comply with environmental regulations and waste management.

The passports are used to standardise the way we collect end-of-life sustainability data and can be linked back to a BIM model to give additional valuable data on deconstruct ability and potential future use.

This function as a material bank is novel concept and innovative design approach which enables the development of new business models, such as leasing construction elements as part of transition to a circular economy.

Learn more about our approach to benchmarking against ESG criteria to redefine the value of property in our research and insight report, 'Sustainable Buildings Monitor: Redefining value'.