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INFRASTRUCTURE: BUILDING A SMARTER FUTURE WITH SMARTSCORE CERTIFICATION
ACHIEVING EXCELLENCE IN MAJOR INFRASTRUCTURE PROGRAMMES
Turner & Townsend
SMART BRIDGE DESIGN & MAINTENANCE: ENGINEERING EXCELLENCE INTO INRFASTRUCTURE
INFRASTRUCTURE: BUILDING A SMARTER FUTURE WITH SMARTSCORE CERTIFICATION
ACHIEVING EXCELLENCE IN MAJOR INFRASTRUCTURE PROGRAMMES
Turner & Townsend
SMART BRIDGE DESIGN & MAINTENANCE: ENGINEERING EXCELLENCE INTO INRFASTRUCTURE
Hello everyone,
Since my last note, we all now know the result of the US election, and all that will bring. While the political rhetoric continues to polarise and create endless debate on what might or might not happen, I would hesitate to suggest that the general mood here at home continues to improve. There is not a meeting I go to or a conference or seminar I attend where you can now find positive words in almost all conversations, quite often from the most unlikely of participants
I was attending the 25th HKTDC Forum Lunch and sat between a Brit and an American – both of whom could not say enough about how Hong Kong and China offered such great opportunities at the moment and were so surprised by what they read versus what they saw. Maybe we are just too hard on ourselves and need to look up sometimes.
I have attended many events over the last couple of months and continue to meet more and more interesting people that reference the chamber, almost unanimously positively. The social media campaigns have been called out – great stuff team!
Paul McSheaffrey and I attended the Hong Kong Business Community Joint Luncheon in honour of the CE John KC Lee, which was very well attended He stated how grateful he was for all input and seemed to be sticking to the premise of hitting targets, given recent ministerial news This was further endorsed by Commissioner Cui, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, who also made it clear that Hong Kong was to be supported 100% by the mainland in his opening of Legal Week.
On 6 November 2024, we had our members-only event which was well attended I do hope I provided a sense to all that what we were seeing and hearing was doubling down on these more positive notes.
We have been lucky to have a number of UK political leaders through Hong Kong and again, the desire for a pragmatic, constructive relationship for the purposes of trade were felt by all. It was great to have members of the General Committee express their views in closed session and made very sure that visitors left enthused
On the more official invitations, the Chamber was delighted to attend Invest Hong Kong’s European Community Networking Reception 2024 to hear more about what the Chief Executive’s Policy Address means for business Speeches from Algernon Yau and Alpha Lau were well received by a full house and followed by animated conversations.
For me, personally, the highlight since my last message was to interview the new UK Investment Minister, Baroness Poppy Gustafsson OBE, at MIPIM. To have a distinguished business woman in this role is great, and her message was very clear – Hong Kong, we want you!
Finally, as we move in to the holiday season, the calendar has suddenly accelerated in a manner of days of “yore”! Thanks to the team for a fantastic Christmas Drinks at Maggie Choo’s – special prize to all those that found the entrance on the first attempt Thanks to all who provided the great prizes
With so much STILL going on, please enjoy the great events through to Christmas I am looking forward to more committee drinks before the year is out!
That’s it for me. All that remains is to wish you all a fantastic Christmas holiday with family, friends and relatives. I hope you all have a chance to relax over Christmas and New Year. I believe 2025 and the new Year of the Snake will be very busy!
All the very best,
Jeremy Sheldon, FRICS Chair
The British Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong
The BritCham Christmas Countdown is the Chamber’s annual flagship social network event for 2024 It is the perfect event to network with fellow Chamber members and non-members alike and to click-start the festive cheer.
We turned up the holiday cheer at the BritCham Christmas Party at the enchanting Maggie Choo’s!
Over 100 business leaders and professionals gathered to indulge in delicious wine, canapés, and the true spirit of the season It was an evening of new connections, delightful surprises, and unforgettable moments
A huge thank you to everyone who joined us and made the night sparkle. Special shoutout to Anya Hindmarch and Swire for providing prizes that had us all feeling like winners! And let's not forget our commitment to giving back $50 from every ticket sale is going to HandsOn Hong Kong, supporting their vital work.
Here’s to celebrating the festive spirit and forging stronger business relationships!
As a valued member of the British Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong, we want to keep you informed about changes we are making to the membership structure for 2025.
Introducing a simplified three-tier membership structure from 1 January 2025
30 member slots
Sterling Membership benefits will remain as now
5 member slots
Combines the current Corporate Plus and Corporate membership categories
1 member slot
Replaces the current Small Business, StartUp, Non-Profit and Overseas categories
25% discount for qualifying Start-Up and Non-Profit organisations
Individuals, whose company is not a member, may join
Joining fees have been scrapped
A single fee for each additional member for member companies.
Boost membership engagement and growth.
It’s simpler to understand, with clearer pricing
More inclusive memberships, giving members more flexibility to encourage their employees to join Chamber activities and expand their business network and knowledge.
The changes will be introduced on 1 January 2025 for new members.
The changes we are making will not impact your current membership until it expires in 2025. At the point of renewal, you’ll transition to the new membership structure.
No immediate action required for existing members.
We will reach out to you again closer to your renewal date with specific details regarding your membership transition
Contact us
Email us at memberships@britcham com
In Hong Kong, infrastructure is one cornerstone of the city’s ambition to become smarter, more sustainable, and more resilient. Large-scale infrastructure developments such as smart transit systems, transformative aviation projects, and the visionary Northern Metropolis exemplify this commitment. Yet, as the construction sector works to deliver these significant projects, we face challenges including supply chain complexity, high construction costs, an aging workforce, and meeting tight timelines in a rapidly evolving urban landscape
To overcome these hurdles and build a smarter future, Hong Kong is embracing a smarter approach to early programme stages This front-end setup is key to success – with an emphasis on strategic procurement practices and innovative delivery models through robust commercial management and programme management office By overlaying and leveraging digital tools and technologies, the city could drive better efficiency and effectiveness, ensuring Hong Kong remains at the forefront of infrastructure development
A so-called ‘digital-first’ approach is revolutionising how infrastructure projects are planned, executed, and operated. When embarking on any project, the starting principle needs to be to think digital first. This means we must identify the tools and platforms needed to support business objectives from the earliest stage and consider their impact and use across the whole asset lifecycle. Evolving digital technologies, such as Building Information Modeling (BIM), Internet of Things (IoT), and robotics, alongside integrated programme management, are key to ensuring smarter, more efficient project delivery
Once the digital architecture is identified, this is needed to ensure the systems, tools, integrations and ways of working are defined, understood and well set-up before delivery Building on these foundations put in place in the strategy will ensure potential issues can be flagged in advance and relevant data can be enable fast, accurate and high-quality decision making
Our collaboration with the MTR Corporation demonstrates the importance of this digital-first approach. Together, we implemented initiatives like digital project management to enhance reporting accuracy and decision-making, and digital engineering based on the ISO19650 BIM process, common data environments, and a digital asset lifecycle approach Additionally, digital construction advancements such as improved connectivity, digital records, and modern methods of construction (MMC) have further streamlined processes We have also been engaged in the reporting and data visualisation for programme management, working to e digital journey such as costing,
Similarly, at Hong Kong International Airport’s Three-Runway System and Airport City, BIM and project collaboration platforms, such as Aconex, are utilised in project delivery process. These tools exemplify how integrated digital solutions deliver optimal outcomes, aligning with Hong Kong’s vision for smarter, more efficient infrastructure.
Delivering large-scale infrastructure projects demands intelligent procurement models to enhance efficiency and productivity Public-private partnerships (PPPs), framework contracting, early contractor involvement (ECI), strategic supply chain management, and collaborative contracting align stakeholders with shared goals These approaches can streamline processes, mitigate risks, and unlock significant opportunities
For instance, a PPP comes with a cooperative arrangement between public and private sectors for the financing, construction, and operation of infrastructure ECI allows contractors to be involved early in the project lifecycle, during the design or pre-construction phase This enhances trust and a better understanding of client priorities, leading to a smoother project delivery. Contractors could even bring in innovative construction methods and technologies that can add value to the projects. Collaborative contracting models focus on fostering collaboration among stakeholders to achieve shared goals and distribute risks and rewards equitably. These strategies, widely adopted by global organisations nowadays, are critical for addressing the complexities of mega-projects in the city.
In Hong Kong, strategic commercial practices, including streamlining supply chains and reducing additional costs that arise from multiple layers of subcontracting, also ensure the resilience of supply chains. By adopting these alternative procurement delivery models, the city is paving the way for infrastructure that is both sustainable and economically viable.
Integrated project management is a comprehensive approach to managing complex infrastructure projects that optimises performance across every stage of the project lifecycle through planning, market data and insights, and industry processes and tools By combining strategic planning, advanced tools, and effective communication, it fosters collaboration, brings alignment among supply chains, and improves costeffectiveness. Digital programme management offices (PMO) enhance these outcomes further by utilizing advanced tools to improve project governance, transparency, and efficiency.
Strategic procurement and flexible delivery models, such as delivery partner frameworks, and integrated programme delivery, allow projects to adapt to complex challenges. An example of success in this area is the collaboration with a major airport in London, where integrated project management has driven efficiency, collaboration, and resilience in the delivery of major infrastructure works. The integrated approach proactively identified and managed risks and opportunities across various projects at key stages to achieve cost and schedule certainty
As Hong Kong’s construction sector moves toward adopting similar practices, it is well-positioned to deliver smarter infrastructure solutions that meet the city’s long-term needs
Shaping Hong Kong’s smarter future requires a multifaceted approach that integrates strategic project management, digital innovation, and collaborative practices By embracing these approaches, the city could overcome the challenges of today to build infrastructure that supports a resilient and connected tomorrow.
"Building Hong Kong’s smarter future requires us to rethink how we plan, design, and deliver infrastructure by embracing innovation and fostering collaboration at the forefront, " Daniel Cheung, Director, Strategic Lead and Head of Infrastructure, Hong Kong & Macau, Turner & Townsend
"Through integrated project management and the power of digital transformation, we could build infrastructure that not only meets today’s needs but also helping to shape a smarter, more connected Hong Kong, " Tim Lee, Director, Hong Kong and Macau, Turner & Townsend.
With a shared vision and commitment, Hong Kong is poised to lead the way in building the infrastructure of the future, ensuring its place as a world-class city
Turner & Townsend is a global professional services company with over 12,000 people in 49 countries. Collaborating with our clients across real estate, infrastructure and natural resources sectors, we specialise in major programmes, programme management, cost and commercial management, net zero and digital solutions
Find out more at turnerandtownsend com
Daniel Cheung Director, Strategic Lead and Head of Infrastructure, Hong Kong & Macau, Turner & Townsend
Tim Lee Director, Hong Kong & Macau, Turner & Townsend
In the rapidly evolving landscape of building technology, achieving SmartScore certification is becoming a benchmark for excellence. This certification not only signifies a building's technological prowess but also its commitment to creating a human-centric environment. However, the journey to SmartScore certification is multifaceted, requiring a blend of technical knowledge, operational experience, creativity, and a humancentric mindset
At the core of any smart building is a robust technological infrastructure. This includes advanced systems for energy management, security, connectivity, and automation To apply the right technology, stakeholders must have a deep understanding of the latest innovations and how they can be integrated into the building's ecosystem This technical knowledge is rooted in a fundamental understanding of engineering principles, enabling stakeholders to estimate the outcomes of applying specific technologies accurately. This ensures that the chosen solutions are not only cutting-edge but also scalable and sustainable.
While technology forms the foundation, operational experience is crucial for seamless implementation
Experienced professionals can foresee potential challenges and devise strategies to mitigate them. They ensure that the technology is not just installed but also maintained and optimized over time. Operational experience is about putting technology in the right application, often using products or solutions in ways that maximize their performance This experience is vital for achieving the operational efficiency that SmartScore certification demands
Creativity plays a pivotal role in differentiating a smart building from its peers It involves thinking beyond conventional solutions and exploring innovative ways to enhance the building's functionality and user experience. Creative approaches can lead to unique integrations of technology that not only meet but exceed the standards set by SmartScore. This could involve novel uses of AI, IoT, and other emerging technologies to create a truly intelligent environment.
Ultimately, the success of a smart building hinges on its ability to serve its occupants. A human-centric mindset ensures that technology is applied in ways that enhance comfort, productivity, and well-being. This involves designing spaces that are intuitive and responsive to the needs of the people who use them Effective communication is key, as technology is meaningless without people Engaging all stakeholders to understand their roles with the technology is crucial By prioritizing the human experience, buildings can achieve higher levels of satisfaction and engagement, which are key metrics in SmartScore certification.
SmartScore certification, launched by WiredScore in 2021, provides a comprehensive framework for assessing and certifying smart buildings The certification covers six main user functionality categories: access and navigation, health and wellbeing, sustainability, community and services, maintenance and operations, and safety and security. The updated SmartScore certification v2, introduced in 2023, includes improved assessments of systems integration, data ownership, management policies, and cybersecurity practices These updates ensure that buildings are not only smarter but also safer and more resilient
SmartScore certification has tangible benefits for both landlords and tenants. For instance, buildings with SmartScore certification often experience lower vacancy rates and higher rental values. According to Moody Analytics, buildings with WiredScore certification had vacancies, on average, 3 8% lower than non-certified buildings Additionally, certified buildings delivering best-in-class connectivity and technology-enabled experiences can support higher rents, with a reported 2 7% uplift in rent in New York City
The certification also helps landlords meet their ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) objectives. The inclusion of criteria related to embodied and operational carbon, as well as the provision of ESG data to occupiers, underscores the importance of sustainability in smart building design This alignment with ESG goals is increasingly critical as regulatory pressures and tenant expectations evolve
SmartScore serves as a comprehensive guidebook for improving ESG performance through technology. It emphasizes the importance of carbon and energy efficiency, as well as enhancing human comfort and experience By integrating advanced technologies, buildings can significantly reduce their carbon footprint and optimize energy use Moreover, SmartScore encourages the creation of environments that prioritize occupant well-being, ensuring that spaces are not only efficient but also comfortable and conducive to productivity.
SmartScore is also recognized by GRESB (Global Real Estate Sustainability Benchmark), one of the leading ESG benchmarks for real estate This recognition underscores the certification's credibility and its alignment with global sustainability standards. Buildings that achieve SmartScore certification can enhance their GRESB scores, demonstrating their commitment to sustainability and smart technology.
Several high-profile projects have successfully achieved SmartScore certification, setting new benchmarks in the industry. For example, the Edge in Amsterdam, often cited as one of the smartest buildings in the world, integrates a wide array of technologies to enhance energy efficiency, occupant comfort, and operational efficiency. The building uses IoT sensors to monitor and adjust lighting, temperature, and space utilization in real-time, creating a dynamic and responsive environment
Another notable example is the Salesforce Tower in San Francisco, which incorporates advanced building management systems to optimize energy use and improve indoor air quality. The tower's smart features have contributed to its reputation as a premier office space, attracting top-tier tenants and commanding premium rents.
A particularly impressive case study is the transformation of Infinitus Plaza in Hong Kong Originally built 40 years ago, this building was retrofitted to achieve the first SmartScore certification for an existing building in Hong Kong, attaining the prestigious Gold level. This project exemplifies how even older buildings can be revitalized with smart technology to meet modern standards. The retrofit involved integrating advanced energy management systems, enhancing connectivity, and implementing user-centric design features. This achievement not only underscores the building's technological advancements but also its commitment to sustainability and occupant well-being
Colliers has been at the forefront of these transformations. For instance, the Bridge in Warsaw, the new headquarters for Santander Bank Polska, is a prime example of how smart building technology can be seamlessly integrated into modern office spaces. This project highlights the importance of a collaborative approach, combining technical expertise with a deep understanding of user needs to create a space that is both innovative and functional
In another example, smart building professionals should be employed to drive these programs Our article on smart buildings outlines the key elements that define a truly intelligent building, emphasizing the role of technology in enhancing operational efficiency and user experience. Additionally, our detailed guide on SmartScore methodology provides a roadmap for preparing properties for the future, ensuring they meet the highest standards of smart building technology
The current economic climate presents several challenges for property owners and managers. Uncertainty in the economy, an oversupply of commercial building stock leading to lower occupancy rates, and the constant pressure to reduce costs are significant concerns Additionally, there is an increasing demand from clients for carbon efficiency and wellness-focused environments These challenges can be daunting, but they also present opportunities for innovation
The right technology can address these issues effectively. For example, implementing technologies that enhance the human experience can make buildings more attractive to tenants, thereby improving occupancy rates Advanced energy management systems can help reduce operational costs and improve carbon efficiency, aligning with ESG goals Wellness-focused technologies can create healthier and more productive environments, meeting the growing demand for such spaces
As the smart building industry continues to evolve, the importance of SmartScore certification will only grow. The certification provides a clear framework for assessing and improving building performance, helping stakeholders navigate the complexities of smart technology By embracing this certification, buildings can not only enhance their operational efficiency but also create environments that are more sustainable, secure, and user-friendly
One of the most common challenges property owners face is determining which technologies are suitable for their buildings With the rapid advancement of smart building technologies, it can be overwhelming to choose the right solutions that align with specific needs and goals Additionally, estimating the return on investment (ROI) for these technologies can be complex, as it involves considering both direct and indirect benefits.
Smart building professionals with technical knowledge, operational experience, and an understanding of human-centric principles should be employed to drive these programs. These professionals have a track record of creating value through technology application. They provide tailored advice to help property owners navigate these challenges. Conducting thorough assessments to identify the most suitable technologies for each building ensures they meet both current and future needs Detailed ROI analysis helps stakeholders understand the financial and operational benefits of their investments
The key to successful smart building implementation is not just about adopting the latest technologies, but about understanding how these technologies can enhance the overall building performance and occupant experience. This critical insight and support are essential for achieving the desired outcomes.
In conclusion, achieving SmartScore certification is a testament to a building's technological sophistication and its commitment to its occupants By combining technical knowledge, operational experience, creativity, and a human-centric mindset, stakeholders can navigate the complexities of smart building technology and create environments that are not only intelligent but also deeply attuned to human needs. This holistic approach is essential for setting new standards in the built environment and paving the way for the future of smart buildings
References:
WiredScore "Your guide to the SmartScore certification v2 update " August 15, 2023 : HID Global "What Is SmartScore Certification? Assessing Smart Buildings for CRE [Guide] " November 19, 2024 : IoT Now "SmartScore global certification launched for 70 smart buildings " April 20, 2021 : Colliers "The Bridge: New Headquarters for Santander Bank Polska " November 19, 2024 : Colliers "What Makes a Building Smart?" November 19, 2024 : Colliers "SmartScore: How to Prepare Properties for the Future " November 19, 2024
One Colliers (NASDAQ, TSX: CIGI) is a leading diversified professional services and investment management company. With operations in 70 countries, our 22,000 enterprising professionals work collaboratively to provide expert real estate and investment advice to clients Learn more at https://colliers com hk/
Andrew Lau Director, ESG Advisory Colliers
The evolution of bridge engineering has entered an era where smart technology and data-driven decisions are reshaping how we design, maintain, and operate these critical infrastructure assets Throughout my career at Arup, I've witnessed a remarkable transformation in bridge engineering, where traditional structural principles now intersect with cutting-edge digital innovation
Today's bridges face unprecedented challenges. Rapid urbanisation across Asia has led to increasing traffic volumes and heavier vehicles, placing greater demands on both new and existing structures In developing Asian economies, where growth is particularly swift, these pressures are especially acute Many existing bridges weren't designed for current traffic loads, let alone future demands
The pace of project delivery has also accelerated dramatically Where we once had the luxury of extended design periods, today's projects demand rapid turnaround while maintaining the highest standards of safety and efficiency. This shift requires us to leverage digital tools and automated processes to be able to deliver without compromising on quality.
Climate change adds another layer of complexity, particularly in coastal areas where bridges must withstand more intense storms and rising sea levels The threat of ship impact has also evolved, as many older bridges weren't designed for modern maritime vessel traffic patterns and sizes
These challenges demand a fundamental shift in our approach to bridge design and maintenance. We're now required to do more with less – optimising designs for greater efficiency while minimising disruption to the public during construction and maintenance activities.
The integration of digital technology has transformed traditional bridge design and monitoring approaches Advanced optimisation tools now enable us to refine designs with unprecedented precision, while the proliferation of smaller, more affordable sensors allows for comprehensive bridge monitoring at a scale previously unimaginable. S M A R
While sensor technology isn't new to bridge monitoring, what's revolutionary is our computational capability to analyse vast datasets. At Arup, we've been researching the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning to process bridge monitoring data Our research has focused on establishing correlations between bridge sensor data – such as loading patterns – and structural responses like stresses and deflections
For instance, by employing machine learning and computational statistics, we are able to automate the processing of thousands of heavy vehicle events while filtering out the effects of wind and temperature and infer useful information about traffic loading and bridge behaviour.
This approach enables us to identify patterns of stresses, which are invaluable for predictive maintenance, allowing us to identify vulnerable components before they become problematic and target inspections and maintenance resources more effectively The results can also optimise our design standards for upcoming projects
Our experience with long-span steel bridges exemplifies the practical benefits of smart monitoring solutions Through detailed data analysis, we've identified that certain older steel deck details are particularly susceptible to fatigue under heavy traffic loading. This discovery has not only informed revised design standards but has also enabled us to provide more targeted maintenance recommendations to our clients.
The implementation of these technologies hasn't been without challenges. Interpreting complex stress data from steel bridge decks required us to develop advanced structural analysis techniques This ongoing process continues to evolve as new challenges emerge, contributing to the continuous improvement of industry standards
While new technologies offer exciting possibilities, we maintain a practical approach to their implementation Different clients have varying priorities – some emphasise initial cost efficiency, while others focus on long-term sustainability and lifecycle costs For instance, our current work with Hong Kong SAR Government 's Highways Department involves analysing existing bridges for future loading scenarios, requiring careful consideration of both immediate and long-term implications.
The key lies in having honest conversations about the balance between upfront investments and lifecycle costs. New, robust designs might increase initial expenses but can significantly reduce future maintenance costs. Our role is to help clients understand these trade-offs and make informed decisions based on their specific circumstances.
Looking ahead, several emerging trends will shape the future of bridge engineering. We anticipate further advances in design optimisation, more comprehensive monitoring of existing structures, and increased use of offsite prefabrication and modular construction techniques.
The transition to electric vehicles presents unique challenges. Many governments are promoting electrical vehicles to reduce carbon emissions Yet, compared with traditional vehicles, electrical vehicles are heavier because they have batteries, which has a significant impact on all road infrastructure, including bridge structures
At Arup, I'm particularly encouraged by the emerging generation of engineers joining our team. Their native understanding of programming and data analysis, combined with solid structural engineering foundations, brings a fresh perspective to our work This hybrid expertise is precisely what the industry needs as we continue to push the boundaries of smart infrastructure We're integrating these skills into our projects while maintaining our focus on understanding and addressing our clients' specific challenges
For infrastructure owners, the message is clear: preparation for future challenges is essential. This means anticipating increasing loads from climate change and evolving vehicle technologies, implementing robust monitoring and maintenance programmes for aging assets, and considering durability-driven technologies
Innovative materials like stainless steel prestressing are becoming increasingly relevant for ensuring long-term durability While these materials may increase initial costs, their superior corrosion resistance and extended service life often justify the investment, particularly in aggressive coastal environments.
Climate resilience must be built into both new designs and existing structure adaptations. Protection against ship impact becomes increasingly critical as maritime traffic patterns evolve. Most importantly, owners must carefully balance initial investments against lifecycle costs to ensure sustainable infrastructure management
The future of bridge engineering lies in our ability to embrace both technological innovation and timetested engineering principles Our commitment to combining traditional engineering excellence with cutting-edge digital solutions ensures we're wellpositioned to address the infrastructure challenges of today and tomorrow.
Arup is a global collective of designers, consultants and experts dedicated to sustainable development, and to using imagination, technology and rigour to shape a better world
Combining local insight with global expertise, we have delivered many of the region’s most prominent projects covering buildings, infrastructure, advisory services, planning, technical consulting, digital, climate and sustainability services.
Steve Kite Director, East Asia Highways Business Leader,
Arup