In a world where digital tools and practices are reshaping the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry at fast speed, professionals are taking the opportunity to embrace digitisation in project delivery like never before. To understand current trends and anticipate future developments amidst this technological revolution, the CTBUH UK Future Leaders recently convened a Panel Discussion on the "Future of Digital in AEC.” Held on March 21st, 2024, the event brought together leading professionals from the UK to share their insights.

Hosted at Foster + Partners’ “The Hub,” the event kicked off with Elena Casini, an associate architect at Foster + Partners, setting the stage for the discussions. Three esteemed panelists—Will Garner, Sheriff Eltarabishy, and Nick Harris—provided diverse perspectives on AI integration, digital method shifts, emerging technologies, and future predictions within the AEC industry.

Nhlawuleko Ngobeni, representing the CTBUH UK Future Leaders, reports on these discussions, capturing the insights exchanged during the session. Additionally, Nhlawuleko reached out to experts globally, spanning Europe, Asia, Africa, the Middle East, South America, and North America to obtain perspectives on digitalisation and future trends in the AEC industry on a global stage.

View and download the full report here

Panelists' Views:

· Will Garner explored AI's transformative impact on traditional design and creative processes. Since 2021, he has used AI tools as a design collaborator to enhance creativity in early project phases. He showed AI's role as a design collaborator, facilitating ideation workshops and visualising innovative design ideas, such as vertical living in rural areas and urban farming landscapes. Garner discussed the current and future landscape of AI in the AEC industry, highlighting trends like exponential team growth through AI, a shift from service-based to product-based models, and the emergence of fully generative AI systems capable of revolutionising the design process.

· Sherif Eltarabishy discussed current trends and shifts within the AEC industry. He focused on the transition from traditional practices to digital methods, emphasising the move from designing objects to designing systems and processes. Sherif highlighted the shift from offline to online software delivery models and the transition from desk-based to cloud-based collaboration. He also discussed the industry's progression towards automated processes and a fully connected built environment, where assets are always connected, reporting their state, and predicting human behavior through digital twins.

· Nick Harris shared insights from Multiplex's digital transformation journey. He highlighted the adoption of a model-first approach, comprehensive data programs and a global digital toolkit tailored to project requirements. He discussed the integration of AI for programme optimisation and site monitoring solutions to enhance safety and efficiency on construction sites. Nick emphasised the importance of leveraging advanced technologies for quality management, progress tracking and for accurate project monitoring, aiming to transform Multiplex from a traditional builder to a facilitator and integrator in the AEC industry.

Global Insights:

· European Perspective (UK) - Retha Swanepoel: Retha emphasised the UK’s proactive adoption of digital tools, focusing on AI's role in enhancing productivity and creativity in design. The shift towards online software delivery models and cloud-based collaboration is evident but concerns about security and regulations remain. This cautious yet progressive approach highlights the need for balance between innovation and safety.

· Asian Perspective (Hong Kong) - Dave Nicholson: Dave highlighted Hong Kong’s rapid digital integration, with AI, digital twins, and VR significantly impacting project workflows. The emphasis is on creating smart, sustainable built environments through advanced technologies, mirroring global trends in digital adoption and innovation.

· African Perspective (Nigeria) - Gerald Madondo: Gerald reported high levels of technology adoption in Nigeria, with clients embracing new digital ways to improve productivity and collaboration. AI, augmented reality, and autonomous robots are anticipated to revolutionise project practices, highlighting the transformative potential of digital tools across the project lifecycle.

· Middle Eastern Perspective (UAE) - Edward McIntosh: Edward noted the dynamic adoption of digital tools in the Middle East’s fast-paced design and construction industry. Tools like VR, digital twins, and multidisciplinary coordination are becoming essential. However, effective utilisation of these tools requires clarity and knowledge to maximise their benefits.

· North American Perspective (USA) - Eoin Kiely: Eoin discussed the growing digital uptake in the US, with a focus on BIM, reality capture, and PMIS tools enhancing project management and data ownership. AI is expected to significantly transform design processes and smart building operations, emphasising the importance of data in achieving sustainability goals.

· Latin American Perspective (Brazil) - Guilherme Lombardo: Guilherme highlighted significant progress in digital adoption in Latin America, focusing on customised data collection apps and integrated collaboration environments. AI’s role in enhancing productivity, risk reduction, and data-driven decision-making is important for future developments.

Conclusion:

The insights gathered from the CTBUH UK Future Leaders Panel and global interviews hihglight the fundamental role of digital technology in shaping the future of the AEC industry worldwide. The panel discussion highlighted AI's growing influence as a design collaborator and catalyst for creativity, with trends like exponential team growth through AI, a shift towards product-based models, and fully generative AI systems driving significant evolution in AEC practices.

Looking ahead, the global perspectives confirm the transformative potential of digital technology, enhancing productivity, collaboration, and innovation across regions. From Hong Kong to Nigeria, the adoption of digital tools is growing in the AEC industry. Future expectations include the widespread integration of AI, robotics, and advanced technologies, which have the potential to revolutionise project delivery and client experiences. By leveraging the power of AI, automation, and advanced digital tools, professionals can unlock new possibilities, streamline workflows, and create sustainable built environments for generations to come.

While high levels of digital tool adoption are evident, further encouragement and investment in education and IT infrastructure are needed. Addressing concerns about the security and ownership of digitally generated information is also crucial. The future of the AEC industry is closely linked to digital

innovation, enabling professionals to unlock new possibilities, streamline workflows, and create sustainable built environments for generations to come.