Cloud computing

Revision as of 17:45, 7 February 2019

Cloud computing comprises a network of web-based platforms that allow users direct access to the 'cloud' (the internet) for a range of computing services that include storage, databases, networking, servers, software and analytics. In other words, it is about the use of external IT resources for internal purposes and is a relatively new phenomenon in the building industry. These services are provided by companies called cloud providers.

Cloud computing allows building professionals better and faster access to more flexible resources; this has the potential to speed-up the construction process and so bring greater efficiencies.

Before the cloud, information would have been processed and stored locally on the hard drives of personal computers, whether of individuals or organisations. This meant computer users were limited by the capacity of their hardware, in terms of both storage and processing power. However, with the advent of broadband came the ability to transfer and process data very quickly over the internet which allowed users to store and retrieve information on, and from, other servers in the cloud. What is more, they can do this from anywhere. The advent of cloud computing has therefore removed the limitations of hardware, improved accessibility and minimised data loss.

Using the cloud, construction professionals (eg architects and engineers) are able to access project drawings and collaborate in real time without being in each other’s presence. This allows remote collaboration without the requirement for travel to meetings. The drawings or building models are stored in the cloud, accessed when required, changed, saved and sent back to the cloud for storage. Using the cloud can also give access to artificial intelligence and a host of other benefits.

On site, tradesmen or professionals can access project information without having to wait to get back to the office, as was the case in the ‘non-cloud’ past. Likewise, a BIM model that is stored in the cloud is easily accessed by all the project team. But the cloud may also have limitations: project owners may restrict access to information, depending on the sensitivity of the project.

Construction may be one of the least digitised industries in the world, but a survey by Sage in 2017 found that 85% of contractors had already implemented or were planning to implement cloud solutions.

The benefits of cloud computing to construction include:

• A flexible method of working
• Security
• Cost effectiveness
• Mobility
• The ability to collaborate with other professionals on designs from anywhere in the world.
• Construction documents can be accessed on-site.
• The combination of Building Information Modelling and cloud computing can enhance the productivity of the project team.
• Access to BIM models.

Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki

• A combination of Cloud Computing and BIM Takes Construction to Next Level
• Access to BIM models.
• BIM - it’s about the Planet - Part 2
• BIM - it’s about the Planet - Part 3
• BIM - it’s about the Planet - Part 4
• BIM - it's about the Planet - Part 1
• Cloud computing and BIM for the construction industry
• Digital Built Britain v BIM
• Information and communications technology in construction