New NBS Digital Construction Survey now open

NBS has launched its annual Digital Construction Survey to better understand the development of the industry for those working in the built environment.

NBS, the platform for connected construction information, has launched its annual Digital Construction Survey, for designers, specifiers, manufacturers, contractors, clients and others working in the built environment.

The results of the survey enable those working in the built environment to better understand the development of their industry, including insights into the rate of digital adoption.

This year's survey includes a focus on new technologies and innovation, seeking to understand how digitisation, the likes of cloud computing, digital twin software, VR, and AR are being utilised, and to what extent this and the use of AI is shaping outcomes.

The 2021 survey found that 71% of industry professionals were using BIM (Building Information Modelling) and that a quarter (25%) were expecting to use it within the next five years. The report also flagged that BIM remained popular with larger businesses yet smaller firms were less likely to use its processes.

This year's survey will cover attitudes towards MMC and off-site construction, which is now receiving government backing as part of its five-year strategic plan to build affordable homes. It will also look to the industry to reflect on claims that it has been historically slow to digitise.

NBS Research Manager, David Bain, said: "Our annual Digital Construction Survey has become a benchmark for industry insight and opinion. As always, the report will cover the topic of BIM, which NBS has become synonymous with thanks to its legacy BIM reports.

"This year's focus will be on emerging technologies – we want to find out which innovations are striking a chord and how industry professionals expect to see digital technology and AI expanding in their sector.

"This is an exciting time for construction – which is currently in the midst of a digital revolution. Deeper understanding of these touch points is always an eye opener and we hope that built environment professionals join the conversation to ensure their voices are heard."

The survey can be accessed here.