DBC member Sam Norledge challenges industry norms, advocating a “Smart-to-BIM” approach to unlock building value.
The digital transformation of the built environment is undeniable, yet a significant chasm often separates Building Information Modelling (BIM) from the burgeoning realm of smart buildings. Addressing this critical disconnect is a core focus for the Digital Buildings Council (DBC).
We’re delighted to share insights from Sam Norledge, Head of Smart Buildings at DBC member LMG, whose powerful article, “The Smart-to-BIM revolution: A new blueprint for digital construction – We’re building ‘Data Museums,’ and it’s time to stop” was recently published on the Digital Construction Week blog. In it, Sam challenges the prevailing “BIM-to-Smart” mindset, arguing that billions are spent on BIM data that often dies at handover, becoming a “museum of data” useless to facilities managers. He passionately advocates for a “Smart-to-BIM” approach, flipping the process to start with operational needs, ensuring BIM models deliver real, actionable value throughout a building’s lifecycle.
Sam’s article serves as an excellent follow-up to the BIM to Smart panel at Digital Construction Week on June 4th. The session, moderated by Rachel Heaton from GS1 UK, featured Sam alongside fellow DBC member John Clarke (One Sightsolutions), James Franklin from Kier Construction, and Veronica Friuli from Turner & Townsend. They discussed overcoming challenges in data integration, communication breakdowns, and standardisation, emphasising collaboration to foster a unified approach.
As part of the DBC’s partnership for the new Digital Operations Stage at DCW, sponsored by Glider Technology, our Executive Officer Justin Kirby hosted a podcast discussion with both John and Sam about the panel session. It’s a fascinating conversation that delves deeper into their insights and the practicalities of making Smart-to-BIM a reality. You can watch the podcast and read a summary of our conversation here.
For a related perspective on the DBC’s BIM to Smart Project Initiative, you can also read John Clarke’s article, “Bridging the gap between BIM and smart buildings.”
For a full overview of the BIM to Smart panel discussion itself, including key takeaways and solutions from our experts, you can read the summary here.
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