A CONSTRUCTION PRODUCTIVITY MAGAZINEWe shape a safe, high quality, sustainable and friendly built environment

BCA launches Centre for Lean and Virtual Construction p2

8 SEF Spacehub Opening 10 The Future is Here:

4D & 5D BIMBIM Competition goes International14

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Editorial advisor

Jeanna Das

EDITOR

Leong Ee Leng

SUB-EDITORS

Cheryl Leong Pei Yi

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Kathy Ng

CONTRIBUTORS fOR ThIS ISSUE Angela Lee, Chen Zhimin, Fern Zheng, Mary

Ann Samaniego, Paul Juwono, Sherlyn Yap

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CONTENTS

CEO’S MESSAGE

CEO’s Message 01

Virtual Reality Centre to Equip New Generation Builders

02

Adjustment to Man-Year Entitlement Formula from Adjustment Factor

04

New Minimum R1 Requirements at the Firm Level in 2017

06

SEF Spacehub Opening 08

The Future is Here: 4D and 5D BIM 10

BIM-Ready Workforce for the Future 12

International BIM Competition 14

Calendar of Events 16

Dear readers,

The first Construction Productivity Roadmap, launched in 2010, aimed at driving the built environment sector towards an average 2 to 3 per cent productivity growth per year until 2020. We have just crossed the halfway mark with convincing progress! BCA also introduced the second roadmap last year, targeting three key areas – higher quality workforce, higher capital investment and better integrated construction value chain. Under this roadmap, $450 million has been set aside under the second tranche of the Construction Productivity Fund (CPCF) to support workforce development, technology adoption and capability building schemes.

As part of our efforts to encourage the adoption of new technologies for construction, BCA launched the Centre for Lean and Virtual Construction (CLVC) – a first-of-its-kind experiential facility. The million-dollar facility, which is located at BCA Academy, aims to equip built environment professionals towards process change based on the concepts of lean and virtual construction and facilitates the Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) process using Building Information Modelling (BIM). This enables project teams to build digitally first, before the actual construction. Industry firms can now rent the facilities at a nominal rate and experience firsthand, how technology can help raise productivity (up to 20%) throughout the construction value chain.

In the midst of transformation, the built environment sector will require a higher quality workforce equipped with technology-oriented skills and knowledge. When BIM was first introduced, we discovered we could do so much more with a 3D BIM model. Now, there is even 4D and 5D BIM! Touted as one of the key technologies to improving productivity and integration across the value chain, many local institutes of higher learning (IHLs), including the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD), have incorporated BIM technology into their curriculum.

As we continue to sow the seeds of transformation and harvest the fruits of productivity, we must also constantly improve and renew requirements to help the sector move forward. From 1 January 2016, the Man-Year Entitlement (MYE) Formula for all project categories will be adjusted according to the Man-Year Adjustment Factor (MYAF) to address the impact of fluctuating tender prices on MYE allocation. Also, from 1 January 2017 onwards, MOM will require all construction firms

to have at least 10% of their work permit holders (WPHs) qualified as “Higher Skilled” R1 workers. To better prepare firms for this new requirement, BCA has, after extensive consultation with the industry, accepted the industry’s proposal to implement a two-year upgrading phase (1 Jan 2015 to 31 Dec 2016) during which firms that have not built up their R1 pool will be required to upgrade 5% of their WPHs in 2015 and another 5% in 2016.

As we continue to embark on our productivity journey, I look forward to your continued support and active participation to build a better tomorrow for the sector and

for Singapore.

Dr John Keung Chief Executive Officer

CEO’S MESSAGE

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Built environment stakeholders can now simulate construction processes and immerse themselves in a 3D walkthrough at the newly opened Centre for Lean and Virtual Construction by BCA.

The first-of-its-kind experiential facility located at the BCA Academy was officially opened by Senior Minister of State for National Development Desmond Lee on 21 December 2015. Close to 60 built environment professionals were treated to a showcase of the latest 3D technologies and Building Information Modelling (BIM) software, Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) technologies as well as Lean Construction concepts and applications.

VIRTUAL REALITY CENTRE TO EqUIP NEw GENERATION BUILDERS The one-stop immersive learning facility allows visitors to experience the future of productive building

The Centre will equip built environment professionals with process-change skills based on Lean Construction and virtual construction concepts. It will also facilitate VDC processes via BIM to encourage project teams to build digitally before actual construction. Such “full-dress rehearsals” conducted in a virtual environment can enhance collaboration and integration during the project delivery process, which can improve construction productivity by up to 20%.

The Centre houses various experiential zones that will show how BIM, VDC and lean principles can strengthen project performance and productivity. It is open to industry firms and institutes of higher learning, with the latter paying lower usage fees. To find out or to book the facility, please email bca_clvc@bca.gov.sg.

Senior Minister of State for National Development Desmond Lee launches the Centre for Lean and Virtual Construction

Mr Lee (right) and invited guests trying out one of the VR tools at the AR/VR zone

A live demonstration of how ICE is done to facilitate better and quicker decision-making

A virtual walkthrough of an actual project using a giant screen and immersive 3D technology

A simulated on-site setting for “BIM to Field” and “Field to BIM” using one of the technologies at the BIM On-site Zone

TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT

highlights at the Centre for Lean and Virtual Construction

The various experiential zones within the Centre provide unique focus areas and opportunities for an immersive experience.

Zone 1 Dynamic Exhibition

Zone 2 Virtual Design and Construction (VDC)

Zone 3 Augmented Reality/Virtual Reality (AR/VR)

Zone 4 Integrated Concurrent Engineering (ICE)

Zone 5 BIM Connect

Zone 6 Lean Construction

Zone 7 BIM On-site

Zone 1: Dynamic Exhibition • Objectives, capability and setup of the Centre

Zone 2: Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) • VDC, BIG Room concept, scenario-based training • Live demonstration by Surbana Jurong and Straits Construction Zone 3: Augmented Reality/Virtual Reality (AR/VR) • Hands-on experience of AR/VR tools • Live demonstration by Shimizu Corporation

Zone 4: Integrated Concurrent Engineering (ICE) • Concept of ICE • Live demonstration by RSP Architects Planners & Engineers Zone 5: BIM Connect • Live experience of immersive virtual reality on big screen with 3D

glasses • Live demonstration by DCA Architects

Zone 6: Lean Construction • Importance and benefits of Lean Construction Zone 7 BIM Onsite • Simulated on-site setting for “BIM to Field” and “Field to BIM” • Case examples in Singapore • Live demonstration by Hydronav-Trimble"

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Since 1 July 2013, the Ministry of Manpower and BCA have implemented the Tender Price Index (TPI)1 with the adjusted Man-Year Entitlement (MYE) allocation formula, which takes into account the effect of fluctuations in tender prices.

The MYE system allocates workers from Non-traditional Sources and the People’s Republic of China according to project type and contract value. However, due to the cyclical nature of the construction industry and varying economic conditions, tender prices of construction projects tend to fluctuate and affect the MYE allocation to projects.

自2013年7月1日起，考虑到投标价的波动对外劳配额所带来的

影响，人力部及建设局实施了经建筑投标价格指数(TPI)1来调整

外劳配额（MYE）的计算公式。

外劳配额是以项目的种类及合同金额，来分配来自非传统来源

和中国的工人。然而，因为建筑业的周期性以及经济条件的变

化，建筑项目的投标价也会随之上下波动，从而影响到外劳配

额的分配。

1Tender Price Index (TPI) measures the movement of tender prices of construction projects. This index is compiled from tender prices that represent what a client must pay to construct a new building.

1建筑投标价格指数（TPI）是衡量建筑项目投标价变动的指标。它是汇集了不同种类的建筑投标价格所计算出来的一个指数。

ADjUSTMENT TO MAN-YEAR ENTITLEMENT (MYE) fORMULA fROM 1 jANUARY 2016 To take effect from 1 January 2016

从2016年1月1日起外劳配额将调整 应对投标价波动所带来的影响

To address the impact of fluctuating tender prices on MYE allocation, the MYE formula will be adjusted with the Man-Year Adjustment Factor (MYAF) on 1 January of each year for all project categories. MYAF is computed based on the TPI tabulated for the previous financial year and is reviewed annually.

For example, for the period of 1 January 2016 to 31 December 2016, the MYAF is 0.946, that is, a 5.4% adjustment downwards to the MYE allocation.

为了应对投标价波动对外劳配额分配所带来的影响，每年1月1

日，外劳配额计算公式将根据外劳配额调整因数（MYAF） 在

所有类型的建筑项目， 进行调整。此调整因数适用于所有类型

的建筑项目。外劳配额调整因数是根据上一财政年度的建筑投

标价格指数（TPI）所计算出，并每年进行评估。

例如：从2016年1月1日至2016年12月31日，外劳配额调整因

数为0.946，即外劳配额将调低5.4%。

From 1 Jan 2016 to 31 Dec 2016

Nominal Project Value MYE Allocation(without TPI adjustment)

Man-Year AdjustmentFactor (MYAF)

MYE Allocation(with TPI adjustment)

$15 Mil 103 0.946 103 x 0.946 = 97

2016年1月1日至2016年12月31日

项目金额外劳配额

（未经TPI调整）

外劳配额调整因数

（MYAF）

外劳配额

（经TPI调整）

$15 Mil 103 0.946 103 x 0.946 = 97

TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT

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TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT

BCA encourages building a bigger pool of higher skilled R1 workers so that firms can enjoy significant lower levy rates and a longer Period of Employment (POE) of 22 years for such workers.

From 1 January 2017, the Ministry of Manpower will require all construction firms to have at least 10% of their work permit holders (WPHs) qualified as “Higher Skilled” R1 workers. To prepare firms for this new requirement, BCA will implement a two-year upgrading phase (from 1 January 2015 to 31 December 2016), during which firms which have yet to build up their R1 pool will be required to upgrade 5% of their WPHs in 2015 and another 5% in 2016.

Through the Workforce Training and Upgrading Scheme, BCA supports the firms’ efforts to upgrade their workers by co-funding up to 80% of the course fees and testing fees. Since 1 June 2015, workers who fail at their first attempt at upgrading can enjoy up to 40% in subsidy for 2015 and 2016. These training courses are available at the 26 Approved Training and Testing Centres and the BCA Academy in Singapore.

BCA had organised a series of briefing sessions in 2015 to help firms familiarise themselves with these new measures. More than 800 construction firms attended the briefings.

NEw MINIMUM R1 REqUIREMENTS AT fIRM LEVEL To take effect in 2017

3 Milestones to Note:

1 from 1 january 2015, all construction firms are required to:

a. Upgrade 5% of their firm’s own work permit holders (WPHs) by end 2015b. Upgrade another 5% by end 2016

Construction firms which have at least 15% of their WPHs qualified as R1 workers as at end 2014 will be exempted from the upgrading requirement for 2015. Similarly, firms with at least 15% R1 workers among their WPHs as at end 2015 will be exempted from the upgrading requirement for 2016.

2 The four pathways for firms to upgrade “Basic-skilled” R2 wPhs to “higher-skilled” R1 wPhs:

Pathway 1: CoreTrade SchemeWorkers with at least four years of construction experience in Singapore and who pass the stipulated skill assessments conducted by BCA can be registered under the Construction Registration of Tradesmen (CoreTrade) registration scheme to qualify as R1.

Pathway 2: Multi-skilling Scheme Since July 2012, the Multi-skilling Scheme allows construction firms to upgrade WPHs with minimum four years of construction experience in Singapore and is certified in two or more trade skills to the R1 tier.

Pathway 3: Market Based Skills framework (MBf)Since August 2014, MBF allows R2 WPHs to upgrade to R1 status if they have at least six years of construction experience in Singapore and earn a fixed monthly salary of $1,600 or more.

Pathway 4: Direct R1 Pathway (NEw!) Since September 2015, the Direct R1 Pathway allows workers who passed the SEC(K) at Direct R1 higher skills standards and draw a fixed monthly salary of $1,600 or more to qualify for R1 status. This benefits firms that bring in better quality workers from overseas, and encourages the upgrading of their better quality existing R2 workers who have fewer than four years of construction experience in Singapore.

The eligibility criteria of the upgrading pathways are summarised in the following table.

Summary of Upgrading Pathways and Eligibility Criteria

Criteria Existing pathways Newly introduced pathway (since September 2015)

(A)CoreTradeScheme

(B)Multi-skillingScheme

(C)Market-based Skills Recognition Framework (MBF)

(D)Direct R1

Local Construction Experience

Min. 4 years Min. 4 years Min. 6 years X

Test Pass the CoreTrade Test Pass the Multi-skilling Test

X Pass the Direct R1 Skills Test

Fixed Monthly Salary1 X X At least $1,6002 At least $1,6002

3 In January 2015, BCA sent out notification letters to construction firms on their exact number of R2 WPHs to be upgraded for 2015. To help construction firms to monitor their upgrading requirements, BCA also introduced a self-check portal to enable firms to check their upgrading status during this two-year upgrading phase.

For more information on the R1 self-check portal, please visit:https://www.bca.gov.sg/upgrading_selfcheck/r1upgrade.aspx.

For more information on the 2-year upgrading phase, please visit: http://www.bca.gov.sg/manpower/raisequalityofworkforce.html

For more information on the Direct R1 pathway, please visit:http://www.bca.gov.sg/manpower/others/DirR1BriefingEnglish.pdf

Note1: "Fixed monthly salary" refers to the sum of basic monthly salary and fixed monthly allowances.Note2: Employers are required to update the WPH’s fixed monthly salary of at least $1,600 or more at MOM’s Work Permit Online system

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NEwS & ANNOUNCEMENTS NEwS & ANNOUNCEMENTS

SEF SpaceHub by SEF Construction Pte Ltd is the first Integrated Construction and Prefabrication Hub (ICPH) awarded under BCA’s public tender in 2013. It is the world’s first multi-storey fully integrated precast facility equipped with the automated pallet precast production circulation system, automatic welded mesh fabrication and placement machine and a cutting-edge multi-tier racking system to store precast elements.

The opening on 23 September 2015 was officiated by Mr Lee Yi Shyan, Former Senior Minister of State for Trade & Industry and National Development. It marked a milestone in the built environment’s journey towards productivity improvement. The entire manufacturing process at SEF SpaceHub – including the storage and retrieval of precast components – are supported by advanced Building Information Modelling, a master computer control and enterprise resources planning software.

Such state-of-the-art facilities are the next step forward for precasters to shift towards automation, process integration, improved quality and significant productivity improvement. ICPHs were introduced to steer the industry towards a reduced reliance on foreign workers and a wider adoption of precast construction. They are highly mechanised production facilities on long leases. ICPHs also epitomise the Design for Manufacturing and Assembly approach by producing many of the precast components needed for on-site assembly in a factory environment.

BCA has awarded two more sites for the development of ICPHs to Straits Construction Singapore Pte Ltd and Soil-Build (Pte.) Ltd. Both ICPHs are expected to be completed by end 2016 and 2017 respectively. A total of 10 ICPH land tenders are expected to be rolled out by 2020.

SEf SPACEhUBLaunch of Singapore’s first integrated construction and prefabrication hub

Automated Concreting MachineAutomated Pallet Stacker

SEF SpaceHub Building

Located at Kaki Bukit and spanning 32,680 m2, SEf Spacehub comprises:

features at SEf Spacehub

• A five-storey factory block, four-storey office building and a workers’ dormitory

• Cutting-edge automated precast machinery, which increases output by two to three times with only half the amount of workers needed for the production of precast components

• High-quality precasting under sheltered conditions to minimise disruptions from unfavourable weather conditions

• Three-tier automated storage rack system for precast components

• Dust-free and automated concrete batching plant with underground aggregate storage

• Capability to produce more than 25 types of components including columns, beams, planks, walls, facades, staircases, household shelters and prefabricated bathrooms

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PRODUCTIVITY & TEChNOLOGY PRODUCTIVITY & TEChNOLOGY

So what makes 4D and 5D BIM different from 3D BIM?

With 4D BIM, individual 3D components or assemblies are linked with the project delivery timeline to better plan, control and manage resources such as manpower and equipment. 4D simulation also provides opportunities for improved collaboration, communication and forecasts and tracking of resources and time.

5D BIM integrates design with scheduling, estimating and costing, which includes generating the bills of quantities and control, and managing and monitoring project costs.

Effective Project Control, Higher ProductivityLouis Khoo, Director, Kimly Construction Pte Ltd, gives us a glimpse into his company’s 4D and 5D BIM journey, and the challenges faced in implementing new platforms and processes.

1. What motivated your organisation to embark on 4D and 5D BIM?It was a logical progression as we were looking to develop our current BIM capabilities and standards with a more holistic approach. While 3D provides many coordination functionalities, 4D and 5D are powerful tools for cost control over projects.

Estimation capabilities will be enhanced and operational staff will be better able to plan. By using 4D and 5D BIM to eliminate redundant steps and increase the speed and accuracy of our data and decision making, we are taking a big step towards higher organisational productivity.

2. How has Kimly implemented 4D and 5D BIM?We began implementing 4D and 5D BIM via “lab sessions”. These sessions are conducted in a collaborative environment with key members from the entire project team participating. The collaboration allows the different departments to better understand how their inputs will affect the whole value chain and the ways that other departments operate.

4D及5D建筑信息模型和3D有什么区别？

在4D建筑信息模型下，个别的3D构件和组件与项目交付时间表相链接，将更有效地设计、控制和管理如人力和器材等资源。4D进度模

拟过程也能提高协作和沟通能力，以及预测和追踪掌控资源与时间。

5D建筑信息模型融合了设计与进度控制、估算及成本控制，其中包括生成工程量的账单，控制、管理并监控项目成本。

有效管理项目，提高生产力金利建筑私人有限公司的董事Louis Kho与我们分享了该公司实行4D

及5D建筑信息模型的过程，以及推行新平台和程序所面临的挑战。

1. 是什么促使贵公司启用4D及5D建筑信息模型？金利一直在积极探讨如何更全面地提高目前建筑信息模型的能力

及水准，采用4D与5D建筑信息模型便成了最合适的选项。3D建筑

信息模型能提供多种协调功能，4D和5D则是控制项目成本的有效

工具。

估算能力的提升，有助于操作团队更准确地策划安排整个项

目。4D及5D建筑信息模型， 有助于缩减多余的步骤，提高做决策

的速度和数据的准确性，从而大幅提高公司的整体生产力。

2. 金利如何实行4D及5D建筑信息模型?金利以”实验课”为开端，实行4D及5D建筑信息模型。“实验

课”的参与者为项目团队的主要工作人员，在良好的协作氛围下各

个部门充分了解各自的输入/投入如何影响整体的价值链以及其他

部门的营运方式。

统筹各个不同的部门，共同发展新的营运模式极具挑战性，例如，

需要改变某些部门对建筑信息模型是专为工程师及操作人员所设的

既定印象。为了让整个团队更有效率地使用新平台，相关人员也必

须接受建筑信息模型的培训。另外，利用建筑信息模型进行可视化

及协作工作的部门必须调整模型的营运模式，以配合其他负责合约

及成本管理的部门。

尽管面临挑战，我们的职员如今对于自己的工作如何影响着整体项

目、价值链和组织，以及新的平台与营运模式如何能有效地提高生产

力方面，有了更深一层的了解，这也成了激励大家积极改变的动力。

3. 金利采用哪些软件？软件的主要特点有哪些？金利又如何从中受惠？我们目前使用Autodesk Revit来生成BIM，并使用RIB iTWO实行整

合方案，以便进行项目管理。有了整合方案，我们能创建单一数据

ThE fUTURE IS hERE: 4D AND 5D BIMBuilding Information Modelling (BIM) has much more to offer than just 3D modelling

未来已降临：4D及5D建筑信息模型建筑信息模型的应用价值不止于3D模型

It was challenging to coordinate the different departments to develop a new work process. For example, the departments that had the assumption that BIM was just for engineers and operational staff had to be convinced that BIM can add value to their work. BIM training had to be carried out so that everyone can work effectively on this new platform. The operational teams who use BIM for visualisation and coordination also had to adapt their BIM processes to collaborate with the departments involved in contracts and costing.

Despite the challenges, our staff now have a clearer understanding of how their work can impact the whole project, value chain and organisation, as well as how a new platform and business process can enable them to be more productive. These have been motivating factors for everyone.

3. Which software does Kimly use? What are some of its important features? How has Kimly benefitted?We are currently using Autodesk Revit to produce our BIM and RIB iTWO to implement an integrated solution for project control. With an integrated solution, we can achieve a single source of data and ensure real time status updates. With the single-source data, redundant work processes are eliminated, while communication and accuracy are enhanced.

Meanwhile, generation of reports can also be streamlined, thus relieving our staff from mundane tasks, which allows them to focus on higher value work. The synergy between technology, effective business processes and a collaborative work environment has enabled us to drive for effective project control and higher productivity.

4. What trends do you envisage in the use of 4D and 5D BIM in the near future?BIM has been growing in use internationally for several years. We envisage the industry adopting 4D, 5D and the other dimensions and capabilities of BIM, and extending their use in the lifecycle of project management to multiply BIM’s value over the next few years.

集，确保进度的实时监控，并减少不必要的程序，加强协调性及准

确性。

同时，随着生成报告过程的逐渐简化，员工的例行工作将会减少，

让他们能专注于高附加值的工作。在科技、高效营运流程以及和协

工作环境三者的相互协同下，我们能更有效地管理项目，提高生

产力。

4. 您对4D及5D建筑信息模型将来的应用趋势有什么展望？近年来建筑信息模型的使用逐渐国际化。我们预期，未来建筑业将

启用建筑信息模型4D、5D，及其他维度和功能，并扩展该模型在

建筑项目管理生命周期的使用范围。在接下来的几年内，BIM的价

值将以倍数增长。

随着将各项相关信息数据集成单一数据平台在建筑业的需求日益增

加，可想而知，若是配合云端技术，届时BIM协作功能的潜力将获

得更充分的发挥。

Project activities in RIB iTWO

Kimly's iTWO 5D Lab

With the growing need for organisations in our industry to consolidate full data onto a single platform, we can also imagine cloud technology becoming very useful in this integration, and with that, the collaborative potential of BIM will grow even more.

3D 4D(SChEDULING)

TIME+ = 4D 5D(SChEDULING,

ESTIMATING & COSTING)

COST+ =

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BEING BIM-READY fOR ThE fUTURE Students trained in the technology and professors give their take on BIM learning in Singapore

TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT

With BIM touted as one of the key technologies to improving productivity and integration across the entire construction value chain, the demand for BIM-equipped and BIM-skilled resources by the construction industry has also increased.

To meet the demand and build BIM capability, many institutes of higher learning (IHLs) in Singapore have incorporated BIM technology into their programmes since 2011. The latest IHL to do so is the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD).

Building Technology-oriented Leaders in DesignAssistant Professor Stylianos Dritsas and Associate Professor Bige Tuncer SUTD tell us about having BIM in the varsity’s curriculum.

Riding the wave of BIM

Graduates Goh Chia Yee (CY) and Ma Ming Ze (MZ) from the Mechanical Engineering (Green Building Technology) diploma programme, Xiao Yong Hao (YH) from Construction Information Technology diploma programme, and Wang Ning Qian (NQ) from Design (Interior & Landscape) diploma programme may have been enrolled in different courses at BCA Academy, but they have all been exposed to BIM-related modules and found it very practical in applying them to their current jobs. CY and MZ learnt to model basic mechanical systems using BIM while studying the design and construction of energy-efficient mechanical and electrical systems. YH’s Construction IT course focuses on all things BIM while NQ learnt to visually communicate conceptual ideas and integrate design with BIM.

1: how does being a graduate from the BCA Academy give you an added advantage to securing your current job? Is the remuneration package what you had expected? CY: I was fortunate to be employed with the rest of my teammates from the Academy. The BIM exposure we had definitely helped to convince Hexacon Construction that we are capable of handling BIM tasks. Yh: As BIM becomes more prevalent in Singapore, the BIM knowledge we learnt in school was definitely an advantage in helping us secure our current jobs quickly. ALL: Yes, we are all happy and satisfied with the remuneration package we are getting!

2: Can you give some examples of how your BIM knowledge has helped you at work?CY: BIM basics were extensively covered during my course in the Academy and, coupled with fundamental systems knowledge from other modules, helped me to pick up site knowledge and work mechanics faster than my peers.MZ: I’m especially grateful to my mentors for showing me the ropes. They provided me with a strong foundation in BIM modelling that enabled me to deliver at work. Yh: The BIM basics helped me to further master other BIM related software such as Navisworks easily. This has given me an advantage over my peers in terms of job performance. Nq: I was given a solid foundation in BIM and I’m able to apply my architectural BIM knowledge to my area of work.

BIM Is Evolving fast

Koe Choon Wei, a graduate from the National University of Singapore (NUS) and winner at the BIM Competition 2014, infects us with his passion for BIM.

1. How would you describe SUTD’s Design, Architecture and Sustainable Design programme? What motivated SUTD to include BIM technology in its undergraduate programme?SUTD’s undergraduate curriculum was developed in collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. As such, the role of technology is pervasive within our programme.

The programme comprises four thematic areas: Architectural Design, Building Technology, Design Computation and History, Theory and Culture.

Design Computation is the overarching area that studies Information Technologies in architectural praxis and includes four core compulsory courses, of which BIM is one of them.

2. Can you elaborate on the BIM course?The BIM course is the last core Design Computation module. In the previous courses, students have already built significant knowledge and experience in computer programming, computational geometry, parametric modelling, and computer-aided design and manufacturing, which are prerequisites to the introduction of BIM.

In addition, their understanding has reached a level where we can effectively engage in high-level topics such as integration of trades and services, project coordination and cross disciplinary collaboration, and architectural design-development and documentation through the paradigm of BIM.

3. How is the course delivered so it is relevant and engaging to students?We do not have traditional boundaries between design and technical courses. This aims to engage students in employing new modes of thinking and working to approach personalised objectives and challenges through design. The BIM topic is covered through a series of lectures including inviting industry experts from the architecture, engineering and construction industry as well as government agencies. We also engage in project-based sessions where students develop their own design-to-production processes.

4. What skillsets do students need to have to better meet the changing needs of the construction industry?As much as BIM has become the status quo today, we foresee advanced scientific modelling methods such as numerical simulation and optimization of human, building and environmental parameters to be the next major innovation towards a more sustainable future.

Award-winning entry in the Autodesk ASEAN Design Competition (BIM Category) by SUTD students Yeo Song Pei and Chua Yuheng.

1: Could you briefly introduce yourself and the programme/IhL that you graduated from, and share about how you picked up BIM through your course?I graduated from the NUS Project Facilities Management (PFM) (Honours) Programme. PFM students read modules related to both facilities management and project management rather than just one particular discipline.

Throughout the four years, students are exposed to BIM progressively. They learn about time management and principles of project scheduling (related to 4D), quantity surveying and cost estimating (5D) and facilities management (6D). We are required to apply all this knowledge in a BIM module offered in the final year.

In addition, there are various BIM competitions and overseas exposure. The mentorship programme introduced by BCA during the 2014 BIM Competition helped me to gain valuable experience and lessons.

2: Did BIM knowledge give you an added advantage to securing your current job? Is your remuneration package what you had expected?Knowing BIM means I can provide more value-added services to my work, and this will help differentiate myself from others. The remuneration package is what I had expected.

3: what is your current job scope or portfolio?I am currently working in the cost research department. At the same time, I am looking into the percentage difference in quantities extracted using BIM (from the BIM model) and the quantities obtained from conventional methods. I am also exploring the use of different BIM tools in the quantity surveyor scope of work. I have had the opportunity to be involved in the BIM Steering Committee to learn more about developing BIM guides.

4: Can you give some examples of how your BIM knowledge has helped you at work?Software skills learnt during school days are the most useful. Understanding how to do

From left: Ming Ze, Chia Yee, Yong Hao and Ning Qian. All four of them graduated from the BCA Academy and are now

working with Hexacon Construction

Choon Wei receiving the BIM Competition 2014 prize with his team

3: Do you have any advice for those who aspire to take up a career in BIM technology? MZ: BIM isn’t just about modelling. It is also about the information that goes into the building. Come up with more ways to make use of that information and you will derive more satisfaction from doing BIM. Yh: BIM is an upcoming trend. Grab the chance and ride the wave!Nq: Do try and take part in as many BIM competitions as possible to maximise your BIM exposure. You can also make great friends that will spur you on in your BIM journey!

quantity extraction for items explicitly modelled (beams and columns, etc) and items not explicitly modelled (formwork, etc) have been useful for my work. Another example is the ability to navigate the model to get the needed information (exporting views, sheets, etc). BIM concepts learnt in the programme set the foundation in allowing me to integrate it into the working world.

5: Do you have any advice for those who aspire to take up a career in BIM technology?BIM technology is evolving at a very fast pace so you must have the patience and passion to learn and try new things. Keep improving yourself. Sometimes you will encounter skepticism about going into BIM. But if you believe in what you do and work towards your goal, you will gain valuable experience and skills in this field.

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The panel of judges included (from left to right): Mr Richard Soon, Director of P&T Consultants; Mr Cheng Tai Fatt, Deputy Managing

Director of BCA Academy; Mr Adam Jordan, Associate of BrydenWood Singapore; Mr Matthew Yeo, Associate of Laud Architects; and Mr

Ishizawa Tsukasa, BIM Manager of Takenaka Corporation

BCA’s annual BIM Competition opened its doors to international participation in 2015. It saw yet another round of excellent BIM skills displayed by student teams – this time not just from Singapore, but also Korea, Australia and Turkey. Up to 149 students from 21 teams took up the challenge.

The International BIM Competition 2015 aimed to familiarise students with new game-changing technologies – such as DfMA – through the competition projects. The teams demonstrated their BIM competency while partnering industry BIM Managers, who acted as mentors. The mentorship included site visits to the mentor’s office to experience first-hand how BIM can be used for actual projects.

At the start of the competition, the teams were given the relevant documents and templates, and they had to electronically submit their work in stages. Various deliverables were required for submission daily. A total of six teams out of 21 were finally shortlisted for the final presentation and judging component. The panel of judges consisted of five industry experts in the fields of BIM and DfMA.

1st Prize: Victorious SecretSingapore Polytechnic, Singapore

Victorious Secret adopted the core idea of the unitized building system, which is built on the flexibility and innovation of modularisation construction using BIM. From the basic analysis, the team was able to draw conclusive decisions, aiding the project management and construction simulation.

Considerations for sustainability helped to improve the overall building performance. For them, BIM is a platform for innovation that can test the limits of structural building.

BIM COMPETITION 2015 GOES INTERNATIONALStudents from Singapore, Korea, Australia and Turkey pit their skills against one another

All smiles for the winning team, Victorious Secret from Singapore Poly

2nd Prize: Easy BuilderChosun University, South Korea

Easy Builder used a modular unit construction method for all floors except the first and second, which are shared spaces. For their construction sequencing, they proposed to erect the structural frame while simultaneously inserting the module unit into the structure using the Infill method. This reduces costs and the construction period, and enhances structural safety.

For disaster prevention, the eccentrically braced frame (EBF) with removable link was used. Post-disaster, the damaged parts can be replaced without affecting the building’s function. The Modelling Automation Model was made with open API using Tekla as the EBF system is not within the BIM software.

fEATURE fEATURE

Winners

“It has been very exciting to see such accomplished and enthusiastic work from students here in Singapore as well as from around the world. The quality of the submissions was very high and it is clear that all of the finalists did a great job. As Singapore and other countries continue on their construction productivity journey, it’s heartening to see that students who will soon enter the built environment professions have already acquired a strong grounding in BIM and DfMA approaches. They are well placed to help the industry achieve greater things.”

Mr Adam Jordan, Associate, Bryden Wood Singapore

Award Team Name Institution, Country

1st Prize Victorious Secret Singapore Polytechnic, Singapore

2nd Prize Easy Builder Chosun University, South Korea

3rd Prize BI-BIM Kyung Hee University, South Korea

Merit Prizes BIMETU Middle East Technical University, Turkey

Bravo Builder BCA Academy, Singapore

Evolution BCA Academy/Singapore University of Technology & Design, Singapore

Fortitude Inc BCA Academy/Singapore University of Technology & Design, Singapore

Liaison BCA Academy/Singapore University of Technology & Design, Singapore

Team UNSW The University of New South Wales, Australia

“The team believes that BIM is a platform for design and the core knowledge is still in DfMA itself. We spent a lot of time on the DfMA component when the topic was released. We had already prepared and done our BIM research before the start of the competition. We strongly believe that having a good grasp of BIM knowledge is crucial in applying it to the actual construction project.”

Mr Ding Zi ChenTeam Leader, Victorious Secret

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For enquiries, pleAse contAct:

BcA AcAdemytel: 6248 9999 emAil: bca_academy@bca.gov.sg

RidE on thE PRodUCtivity wavE BY SIGNING UP FOR THESE COURSES

ConStRUCtion PRodUCtivity and CaPability FUnd (CPCF) CoURSES

> Certificate in Interior Finishing Coordination

> Certificate in Pavement Construction and Maintenance

> Certificate in Precast Concrete Construction Supervision

> Certificate in Waterproofing Supervision

> Certificate in Building Measurement

> Certificate in Geotechnical Instrumentation for Supervisors

> Certificate in Levelling and Setting Out

> Certificate Course for Structural Steel Supervisors

> NBQ in Project Supervision

> Higher NBQ in Project Supervision

> Advanced NBQ in Project Supervision

> NBQ in Supervision and Coordination of M&E Works

> Higher NBQ in Supervision and Coordination of M&E Works

> Advanced NBQ in Supervision and Coordination of M&E Works

> NBQ in Operation & Maintenance

> Higher NBQ in Operation & Maintenance

> Advanced NBQ in Operation & Maintenance

16 new courses Are now AvAilABle.

UP to 50% to 80% oF thE tRaining CoSt Can bE SUbSidiSEd UndER thE CPCF SChEmE.the additional courses are:

Certificate courses (PMETs)

> Certificate course in BIM Modelling

> Certificate course in BIM Management

> Project Management for Professionals in the Building and Construction Industry (in collaboration with SPM)

> Construction Productivity Management (in collaboration with SCAL)

> Design of Precast Concrete Structures for Engineers

> Workshop on Site Management of Precast Concrete Construction

Trade Diplomas (Foremen / Supervisors)

> Structural Steel Supervision

> Reinforced Concrete Supervision

> Plumbing Technology

> Electrical Technology

Certificate courses (Tradesmen / Foremen)

> Builders Cert in Plumbing and Pipefitting

> SEC(K) in Precast Concrete Components Erection

> SEC(K) in Structural Steel Fitting

> SEC(K) in Interior Drywall Installation

> System Formwork Training

> Mechanical Elevated Work Platform

hAPPENINGS

CALENDAR Of EVENTSDate/Time Event Name Venue Organiser Contact Person &

Details

15 Apr 201620 May 201617 June 201615 July 2016

BCA – SCAL Productivity Clinic

ConstructionHouse, 1 BukitMerah Lane 2,

Singapore 159760

BCA and Singapore

ContractorsAssociation

Limited(SCAL)

Name: Mr Harry ChuaTel: 6278 9577

Email: harry@scal.com.sg

29 Apr 20162pm – 5.30pm

Smart Builders Leadership Series

BCA Academy200 Braddell RoadSingapore 579700

BCA Academy

Name: Ms Ezrin RaofTel: 6804 4255

Email: ezrin_raof@bca.gov.sg

20 Apr 20162pm – 5.30pm

Basic Concept in Construction Productivity Enhancement

Tel: 6248 9999Email: bca_academy@

bca.gov.sg

30 & 31 May 20169am – 5.30pm

Workshop Series on Lean Construction Management: Managing Workflow and Achieving Plan Reliability

9 – 12 May 20169am – 6pm

Certification Course in BIM Modelling (MEP Track)

16 – 19 May 20169am – 6pm

Certification Course in BIM Modelling (Structure Track)

3 – 6 May 20169am – 6pm

Certificate Course in BIM Management

23 & 24 May 20169am – 6pm

BIM Planning Course (Building Developers and Facility Managers)

25 Jul 2016(5 months lesson + 4 months Final Project)

Specialist Diploma in Design for Manufacturing & Assembly

27 Jul 2016(5 months lesson + 4 months Final Project)

Specialist Diploma in Lean Construction

22 Jul 2016 – 24 Sep 2016

BCA-SMU-WDA Advanced Management Programme on Productivity and Leadership Development

SMU, BCA, WDA

Name: Tan Kim GuanTel: 6828 1966

Email: kgtan@smu.edu.sg

Name: Serene Chua

Tel: 6808 5361Email: serenechua@

smu.edu.sg

ConStRUCtion PRodUCtivity and CaPability FUnd (CPCF)

For more information, please visit www.bca.gov.sg/CPCF/cpcf.html

*Terms and conditions apply.

mEChaniSation CREdit (mEChC) SChEmE

Provides assistance to builders to defray up to

70% of equipment costs*

PRodUCtivity innovation PRoJECt (PiP) SChEmE

Provides assistance to companies to defray up to

70% of the cost for adopting more productive

work processes*

We shape a safe, high quality, sustainable and friendly built environment

bUilding inFoRmation modElling (bim) FUnd

Co-funds up to 70% of the supportable cost

incurred by firms when leveraging BIM technology

to improve multi-disciplinary collaboration*

SCholaRShiP and SPonSoRShiP PRogRammES

In partnership with built environment firms, BCA

will co-fund scholarship and sponsorship programmes

at the undergraduate, diploma, ITE, supervisory

and foreman levels*

woRkFoRCE tRaining and UPgRading (wtU) SChEmE

Facilitates upgrading of workforce at all levels by co-funding up to 90% of the cost for selected

skills assessment and training courses*