Digital Leaders–Six Precon Best Practices of High-Performing Contractors

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In the dynamic realm of AEC, every project starts with a vision to serve solutions to serve the evolving space. This past spring, BuiltWorlds closed our Preconstruction Solutions Benchmarking Survey, which allows us to demystify the implementation of bid management, pre-qualification, Building Image Modeling (BIM), scheduling, and estimating. This comprehensive survey goes beyond the strong data it provides, as it paints a vivid picture of how today’s industry leaders are employing innovative solutions to refine the path of excellence. As the industry continues to grow, so do our surveys, ensuring findings that remain practical and actionable as the space shifts overtime. Within this piece we will be exploring six of preconstruction’s best practices that are used among high-performing contractors, according to aggregate data from our surveys.

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While each area varied slightly, in almost every instance, contractors responded that they:
  • Use a technology to prequalify their contractors and manage their bid process for every project
  • Use scheduling software for every project.
  • Use at least one solution for estimating on every project.
Beyond these areas of use, top performing contractors leverage technology for other purposes as well. On several or most projects, more than half of engineering and construction companies in our community us software for:

  • MEP Coordination

MEP Coordination refers to the process of systemizing the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems within a project. Some of these systems include: heating ,ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), electrical power, and plumbing.

  • Energy Modeling

Energy Modeling is the process in which the energy performance of a project is simulated and analyzed. This includes creating models to simulate how the building will consume and source energy, empowering stakeholders to make informed decisions regarding energy efficiency.

  • Fabrication and Shop Drawings

Fabrication and Shop Drawings provide detailed instructions for the construction and assembly of projects within the industry. Both supply precise information about components, dimensions, materials, and other details needed to ensure a swift and accurate fabrication and installation process.

While these six practices are common for the top performing engineering and construction companies in our study in terms of technology adoption, there is wide variability in terms of what solutions they use, how satisfied they are with the solutions, and even how they use the solutions.  These important insights are explored deeper within our Benchmarking and Specialty Area Reports. As the industry continues to grow, we are eager to remain connected with practices that serve as strong solutions for all stakeholders.