Way back, when celebrated Italian architect Brunelleschi was busy giving shape to the world of Renaissance architecture, the concept of the ‘master-builder’ was in vogue. This post was held by an architect, who had complete knowledge of design as well as construction methodologies of building. Construction technologies were relatively simple then; integration, so to speak, was automatic.

BIM, involving a series of transformational technologies, integrates the design process. This positively affects project understanding, co-ordination between team members and accuracy in results. It also reflects upon the predictability of outcomes and results in informed decisions and reduces wastage.

The widening distance between architects, engineers, contractors and owners, and the resultant inefficiencies has driven the need for project constituents and teams to work more collaboratively with greater transparency, shared risks and rewards, and a culture of mutual respect and trust through the use of Integrated Practice (IP).