Digital Construction Week deemed a success

Digital Construction Week 2022, which took place on May 18-19, was deemed a success following a strong rise in attendance.

Ollie Hughes, DCW co-founder and event director, said: “Even though Digital Construction Week 2021 was only six months ago, this year’s event has absolutely surpassed all expectations. Both visitor and exhibitor numbers were much higher, and we have received overwhelmingly positive feedback for the quality and diversity of the programme. With technology in all sectors racing ahead, DCW has never been in a stronger position to lead the way for the AECO industries.”

New products and services were on display across the show floor, including Matterport’s 3D data platform, the new 3D Repo V5 which has undergone a complete redesign, FARO’s recently launched FARO Sphere and the rebrand of I3PT’s obi software.

Nemetschek Group showcased the latest offerings from dRofus, Graphisoft, Solibri and Vectorworks. And the lucky winner of the #NGroupStampChallenge walked away with a virtual reality headset. Not only that, visitors met two new start-ups – Imerso and Reconstruct – which recently received Nemetschek investment.

The future of construction robotics was on full display at DCW 2022. Boston Dynamics and Trimble explained how they developed a solution that integrates SPOT with Trimble’s X7 3D laser scanners and FieldLink software. Plus, SPOT was photographed by countless visitors as it explored the show floor using Leica’s BLK ARC technology.

All eyes were on the Main Stage with cross-industry panels discussing every major talking point, such as the Building Safety Bill, the ‘golden thread’, ESG, digital twins, mixed reality, and sustainability. The Main Stage also saw inspiring keynotes courtesy of David Philp from Construction Innovation Hub, Nathan Marsh from Turner & Townsend, and Jaimie Johnston MBE from Bryden Wood.

A big focus at DCW 2022 was the evolution of BIM and IM, with the new Information Management Stage and Information Management Exchange, both in partnership with UK BIM Alliance and sponsored by UK BIM Framework. Highlights included a conversation between Casey Rutland and Fiona Moore from the Government & Industry Interoperability Group (GIIG) and a panel on CLC data and digital transformation. Also, for the first time, the BIMOpenMic saw visitors share their thoughts live on stage.

The net zero agenda was also front and centre at DCW this year. ZERO partnered with the show to deliver the Net Zero Stage where ZERO Next Gen delivered sessions and the Digital Twin Fan Club hosted a live podcast with guests from the Atkins, Arup, I3PT, WSP and Centre for Digital Built Britain.

Vicki Reynolds, chief technology officer for I3PT, panellist and podcast guest, says, “The layout of DCW and the content of the stages meant that attendees were engaged and ready to explore new solutions and ideas. The agenda for the Main Stage was especially thought-provoking, and the calibre of speakers was high. Every member of our team has fed back that they learned something new.”

Digital Construction Week will return to ExCeL London from 17-18 May 2023.