The purpose of the report is to determine how 'digital ready' the construction industry is to meet the opportunities of the digital future. Most class 2 builders and about half of class 2 designers are at only the 'basic' stage of digitalisation. While many want to improve their digital readiness, the biggest barrier is cost.

Key findings:

• Most class 2 builders (57%) and designers (48%) are in a basic stage of digitalisation. 
• It will take about ten years for the industry to reach ‘digital maturity’. This is where the use of Building Information Models (BIM) and Digital Twins is standard.
• Top drivers of digitalisation: 
  • achieving greater accuracy and trustworthiness (70%) 
  • improving quality and standards (66%)
  • delivering on time, budget, and quality (61%). 
• Top barriers to digitalisation: 
  • the cost of software and licenses (67%)
  • the cost of hardware (57%)
  • inadequate design fees (55%).
• 80% of the industry is a small business (less than 20 employees).  

About the report:

Designers and constructors involved in class 2 multi-story residential buildings were surveyed and interviewed as part of the research to determine:

• the current level of digital maturity of designers and constructors in NSW
• the motivators and barriers to digital adoption
• existing and future skills gaps 
• opportunities to raise industry capability. 

The report is a partnership between the Office of the NSW Building Commissioner and Western Sydney University’s Centre for Smart Modern Construction.

This research is completely independent.