SYNCHRO CASE STUDIES
Synchro Ltd Design Hub 2.3 Coventry University Technology Park Swift Road, Coventry CV1 2TT
Online: www.synchroltd.com t: +44 (0) 2476 792209
SYNCHRO AT WORK FOR: RUDOLPH AND SLETTEN PROJECT: UCSF CARDIOVASCULAR RESEARCH INSTITUTE “We used Synchro’s 4D BIM schedule simulation to communicate among the project stakeholders the complex construction sequences and site logistics. The ability to see clearly the schedule sequences creates a team dialogue and encourages creative problem solving.” --Michael Piotrkowski, Director of Technical Development, Rudolph and Sletten
Synchro Professional 4D BIM Image from View By View, San Francisco
OVERVIEW The University of California at San Francisco is a leading university that advances health worldwide by conducting advanced biomedical research, educating graduate students in the life sciences and health professions, and providing complex patient care. Their new building will be a collaborative center that brings basic research scientists and clinicians together under the same roof, thus accelerating their efforts to understand cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attack and stroke. It will house the existing world-renowned UCSF Cardiovascular Research Institute (CVRI), and will be home to a new UCSF Center for Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease with an outpatient facility that will focus on advancing ways to predict and prevent these devastating illnesses. Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death and disability in the United States, accounting for roughly 950,000 deaths each year, and are expected to increase as the population ages. UCSF has allocated $52 million from its own resources and an anonymous donor has contributed $30 million toward the building’s cost, which is projected to be $241 million. The new building will enable UCSF to bring together scientists and clinicians who are now dispersed over several sites, while also integrating many levels of research aimed at understanding, preventing and treating these diseases. By pooling physicians’ knowledge of physiology and disease with basic scientists’ understanding of genetics, chemistry, protein interactions, molecular and cell biology, and model systems, UCSF hopes to attain a level of sophistication in thinking about disease mechanisms that would not otherwise be possible. Facilitating that type of collaboration has been a guiding factor in planning the new facility, including its proximity to the cancer research building. The cardiology clinic also will complement other UCSF Medical Center facilities planned for the Mission Bay campus, such as the proposed 289-bed, integrated hospital complex that will serve children, women and cancer patients. UCSF has shown throughout its history that interaction of scientists with different skills and knowledge is the key to valuable discovery and quicker “translation” of research into patient care.
THE CONTRACTOR In 1959 Onslow H. "Rudy" Rudolph formed a small contracting company, O.H. Rudolph, General Contractor, based out of his garage in Los Altos, California. Starting with just a small amount of savings, a pickup truck and two employees, Rudy quickly built a business that became known for its ability to deliver the highest quality work on-schedule and within budget. In 1962, Kenneth G. Sletten joined the business as partner and the company was renamed Rudolph and Sletten, Inc., General and Engineering Contractors. Over the years, the company grew and its reputation for excellence grew with it. The Rudolph and Sletten name became a guarantee of honest estimates, innovative schedules and an ethical way of doing business.
Due to the company’s location in Silicon Valley, its growth paralleled that of the valley. Rudolph and Sletten has grown from a small business to a vital corporation. Over 48 years later its corporate culture still clearly reflects the value it places on personal relationships. Many of the company’s current employees are second and third generation employees. Rudolph and Sletten is known for its innovative approach to building and ethics in business dealings. More than 85% of its business is from repeat clients. Today, Rudolph and Sletten is a subsidiary of Tutor Perini Corporation the 9th largest general contractor in the nation as ranked by Engineering News Record. With its headquarters in Redwood City, Rudolph and Sletten also has regional offices in Sacramento, Irvine and San Diego, California.
SPECIFICATION UCSF CVRI celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2008. Since its founding, CVRI scientists have worked together across disciplines to attack cardiovascular diseases. Their partnerships have led to major advances in understanding the disease and in medical care, aiding everyone from infants with respiratory problems to adults with arrhythmia. CVRI’s new building at UCSF Mission Bay will provide state-of-the-art laboratories for current scientists and allow for the recruitment of more investigators. In addition to research, it will house an outpatient clinic for patients with cardiovascular disease.
4D BIM Model in Synchro from View By View
The new 232,000 square-foot building focusing on cardiovascular disease will include “clusters” of about 20 faculty offices on each of its three floors, which are joined by a central staircase. Flexible laboratory space will accommodate nearly 500 graduate students, post-doctoral scientists and other researchers.
The building will allow CVRI to increase its faculty research team from 22 to 48. The building is expected to be ready for occupancy in 2011.
WHAT SYNCHRO LTD PROVIDED
Technical back-up to the consultant, View By View Highly responsive client service Construction modeling support for Rudolph and Sletten
THE OUTCOME Rudolph and Sletten and View By View were able to optimize the added value of BIM for delivery:
Synchro provided the delivery team onsite with a shared, common view of the project among all participants in the project “Big Room” collocation facility on the worksite. Synchro’s scheduling capabilities enhanced their ability to sequence optimally, for example, the site logistics and exterior skin system the new building. Synchro enables the delivery team to communicate better among the construction delivery team, consultant and the client/philanthropic teams at UCSF. The construction team with Synchro embodies USCF’s own philosophy on the worksite about the vital importance of proximate “relational teams” working collaboratively to solve complex problems. Synchro provided leading construction technology to contribute to the construction of this scientific research institute, which could benefit so many people from its medical advances.
“Synchro has been useful at UCSF to schedule site logistics,” said Mitch Boryslawski, Principal at View By View. “It is so helpful to identify and address potential scheduling problems early with 4D BIM software.”
SYNCHRO AT WORK FOR: GILBANE BUILDING COMPANY PROJECT: MARICOPA COUNTY DOWNTOWN COURT TOWER IN PHOENIX, ARIZONA “To visually illustrate the concrete wall pour schedule to the subcontractors, I imported a shop drawing PDF into Google SketchUp, created a model off of it, and then imported the 3D SketchUp model and the Oracle Primavera P6 schedule into Synchro where the model and schedule were merged to create the 4D schedule. Stepping through the 4D schedule live in Synchro made for a very effective discussion for the wall pour sequencing. We were all able to visually walk through it and thoroughly understand the sequencing. The 4D Synchro schedule was also shown to the owner and they were very impressed with the clarity and understanding it brought to the schedule.” --Steve Szoke, Regional Scheduling Executive: Western Regional Office, Gilbane Building Company
(left) Google SketchUp converts from 2D to 3D. (center) Primavera P6 Schedule
(right) Synchro’s 4D BIM
OVERVIEW Maricopa County is an engine of growth of one of the fastest growing states in the nation in Arizona. Maricopa County has 9,200 square miles within its borders with a widely dispersed population. During the 1990’s, the population of Maricopa County grew by 45%. The 2000 census showed that Maricopa County was home to just over 3 million people. By 2015, that number is projected to exceed 4.7 million. The master plan is an opportunity for the court to balance the following goals:
Better serve the residents of Maricopa County Improve operational efficiency in the Trial Courts of Maricopa County Make use of existing court facilities, where appropriate Identify and recommend options for the development of new court facilities Identify costs and schedules associated with the renovation and construction of new courts Meet projected growth requirements for court facilities to the year 2015.
Since the entire Maricopa County Downtown Court Tower project has been completely modeled in BIM, it was natural for Gilbane to transform 2D shop drawings into 3D models using Google SketchUp. Merging the Oracle Primavera P6 schedule with the 3D Google SketchUp model objects to attain true 4D schedule through Synchro Professional has been highly effective in optimizing the construction sequencing.
THE CONTRACTOR Gilbane Inc., one of the largest privately held family-owned companies in the construction and real estate industry, is committed to providing complete facility solutions to clients. Gilbane is one of the nation’s oldest builders. The company was founded in 1873 by William Gilbane and his brother Thomas as a family-run carpentry and general contracting shop in Providence, Rhode Island. Originally known as William Gilbane and Brother, the firm quickly developed a reputation for quality, and for building some of the finest homes in Providence. New projects soon followed, including churches, hospitals and other public buildings that are still in use today. In the early 1900s, William H. Gilbane took control of the company and steered it through the lean times of the Great Depression. In the 1930s, his sons Thomas and William joined the company and made Gilbane’s reputation as a pioneer in construction management — first with major defense projects during World War II, and then with the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum, which opened on time and budget in Washington, D.C. on July 4, 1976. In 1970 Gilbane expanded its services and formed the development unit now known as Gilbane Development Company. Today, fourth-generation members of the family lead the company, which has annual revenues of more than $2.5 billion and more than 25 offices across the United States.
SPECIFICATION To meet the needs of such a rapidly growing community, Maricopa County is constructing a new 690,000-square-foot county courthouse tower with 16 levels in downtown Phoenix. Gilbane Building Company is working over a two-year project window with many stakeholders for completion in March 2012. The smart-building ultimately will be highly sustainable and both energy- and waterefficient as a courthouse designed to withstand the tests of time. Despite the new construction, the traditional design, columns and materials will blend with the historic buildings that exist on the Maricopa County campus. The finished courthouse will house approximately 1,000 in the jury assembly area and offer 22 courtrooms of diverse size with the ability to expand to 32 courtrooms downstream. The project team will seek LEED® certification for this courthouse project. Gilbane wanted to further leverage the BIM model being utilized on the project to better communicate the project scheduling to subcontractors and stakeholders than traditionally allowed by 2D plans. Gilbane instigated 4D BIM via Synchro to enable this desire to assist all project participants in truly understanding the sequencing of concrete pours and also plans to use Synchro’s technology for 4D BIM structural steel schedule.
WHAT SYNCHRO LTD PROVIDED
Synchro Professional Construction modeling consulting Technical back-up Responsive client service
THE OUTCOME Gilbane captured the added value of 4D BIM for delivery for Maricopa County:
Synchro provided the subcontractors with a shared, common view of the concrete pour sequencing and helped them all to visualize and adjust to establish optimum pour sequencing. Gilbane used Google SketchUp to build their model from 2D shop drawings to 3D and then used P6 and Synchro to schedule the model in 4D for the concrete pours. Synchro’s functionality helped identify problems in the sequencing and enabled the team to make changes on the fly. Gilbane will use Synchro at a tactical level from 2D to 3D and 4D in sequencing the structural steel and slab deck pours. Synchro enabled the delivery team to communicate better both to the subcontractors and the owner.
“Synchro has been effective for making changes on the fly live with subcontractors,” said Steve Szoke. “I am also putting together other Synchro 4D schedules for the steel sequencing and the slab deck pours that will further assist us in making this a very successful project.”
SYNCHRO AT WORK FOR: MACE CONSTRUCTION PROJECT: THE SHARD AT LONDON BRIDGE "Synchro provides the graphic simulation needed to deliver and improve construction solutions for our clients, along with a real time based 4D model for idea generation and problem solving within the project team." -- Rob Owen, Director at Mace Group Ltd, using Synchro for Tate Modern and the Shard, London Bridge
On the south side of the River Thames at London Bridge, it is planned to redevelop the office space by the creation of what will clearly be a landmark structure. The main building is known as the Glass Shard and it will be the UK's tallest building. As its name implies, it is a glass exterior giving the appearance of a shard of glass.
THE CLIENT/CONTRACTOR Sellar Property Group is the developer of the site. The project has recently started and Mace has been retained as Construction Managers. This places a major responsibility on Mace to deliver the programme on time and budget with a team of specialists they manage to do the work.
BACKGROUND To quote from the The Shard at London Bridge website: "Mace is a renowned global business providing management and construction services to the public and private sectors, with a reputation for finding the best solutions to complex projects. Mace has been responsible for the successful delivery of some of the most complex, prestigious and award winning projects including these in the UK: the BA London Eye, British Museum Great Court, the More London development, including City Hall, Heathrow T5, Heathrow Air Traffic Control Tower, RBS Gogarburn and the City of London's fourth tallest tower, 51 Lime Street." As part of its best practice review, Mace concluded that Synchro had the best mix of qualities to provide support in "Visualised Planning" generally for its business and this project is seen to be one on which such a technique brings clear benefits. To preview a Synchro .AVI on YouTube of the Shard at London Bridge click here.
WHY SYNCHRO? Mace wanted a product which would promote comprehensive understanding through the delivery team. They selected the Synchro software application for a number of reasons: • The software was able to integrate all aspects of design with site infrastructure and display it back in a flexible way • The ability to improve the quality of communication with project stakeholders at all levels • Its ability to link the dynamic scene with different timelines and display the ongoing consequences of different strategies for building out the various structures • Its ability to bring in all the logistics implications of the programme to help position cranes, roads, parking, earth stores in a city centre site where logistics play a crucial role • The opportunity to compare visually different strategies to understand flaws and wins for one route over another and share these with different trade specialists • The interoperability with other planning systems • Speed and simplicity of the approach.
WHAT SYNCHRO LTD PROVIDED • The conversion of 2D drawings into a 3D model or the assimilation of 3D models, when provided • Staff training • Creation of logistics items and linking of 4D programme from 2D planning schedule
THE OUTCOME Synchro's software enabled Mace to orchestrate the logistics of the project in real time and spot potential problems, which are commonly missed using traditional planning methods, such as: -- The deployment of tower cranes had been scheduled too late into the project. Early discovery of this coordination gap enabled the problem to be rectified before it even manifested itself. -- Issues in the MEP scheduling, such as omissions of certain components from the program, were highlighted before they became a problem, thus avoiding costly time delays. The client is now able to contemplate adopting Synchro in house as a means of formulating, proving and articulating construction strategy, and then controlling the actual output with the agreed plan -- building in certainty and, therefore, optimising results.
SYNCHRO AT WORK FOR: TURNER CONSTRUCTION PROJECT: THE SACRAMENTO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT’S TERMINAL B "Synchro assisted us in demonstrating our knowledge of the project and our ability to solve key issues through the use of 4D simulation. Synchro is an extremely efficient tool that helped us illustrate the effectiveness of how the Turner Team would be a collaborative partner in one of the largest public works projects in the history of Sacramento County." -- Ken Harms, Business Development Manager at Turner Construction
OVERVIEW In April 2008 Turner Construction competed to win the $286 million new airside concourse project, which includes 19 gates and numerous international arrival services. The 40 year-old Terminal B modernisation project began in order to meet the rising demand for passenger services and enhance the ability of the airport to attract new carriers and routes.
THE CLIENT Sacramento County Airport Systems
THE CONTRACTOR Turner is the leading general builder in the U.S., ranking first or second in the major segments of the building construction field. During 2007, Turner completed $9.6 billion of construction. Turner is the only builder offering clients a nationwide network of offices across the U.S. Founded in 1902, the firm is a subsidiary of HOCHTIEF. For more information, visit Turner's website at www.turnerconstruction.com.
WHY SYNCHRO? Turner selected the Synchro software application for the following reasons:
Turner wanted to demonstrate to the owner that they had capability to fit scheduling around phasing. Turner wanted to make clear to the client and owner, how to visualize Turner's resource allocation system, which was not a bell curve, but rather a steep mountain of manpower requirements, to be climbed fast Synchro enabled Turner to clearly visualise the schedule and utilise the unique features of the software, before presenting to the client. If the owner preferred different phasing, Synchro could change it and show how phasing was cost-connected. Turner also wanted to increase communications with the owner to help them visualize problems early. The software provided clear, visual scheduling of the construction 4D modelling.
The Synchro simulation became a powerful tool to demonstrate resource needs to the owner.
WHAT SYNCHRO LTD PROVIDED
Conversion of 2D drawings into a 3D model support Construction modelling support 4D simulation and planning support Support during the competitive bid process Training of the Project Management and Business Development Team
THE OUTCOME Synchro became an efficient tool for problem solving and also allowed Turner to simulate efficiently in the design phase to prevent the following problems during the building phase:
Synchro visualized and avoided the need to move thousands of feet of airport security fence four times during the life of the project. Synchro simulated how one crane instead of two would be sufficient to help assure the crane's height and boom were correct. It allowed for less congestion in the construction area and increased safety for the workers as well as lowering costs. Synchro revealed the need for an unplanned but critically necessary temporary road for construction traffic to keep essential airside operations flowing and functional. Synchronized an optimal paving schedule to prevent blocking the runway for planes to the terminal for 32 days. Improved work site zones and phasing sequences with a specific emphasis on safety for workers onsite.
The financial and time-tabling benefits of such advantages clearly demonstrate Synchro's remarkable value to today's complex construction industry. "We rely heavily on field staff to present solutions during the bidding presentation. They had done the work and knew the job best. With Synchro, we placed them in the best position to be successful. The Synchro simulation was a successful tool in helping Turner attain success," said Ken Harms. "Synchro helped us communicate efficiently in order to achieve our goals. We had all the data but we needed to understand how to communicate it effectively with our client and come out the winner!"
SYNCHRO AT WORK FOR: EXPANDED PROJECT: ONE HYDE PARK
Where Knightsbridge in London enters Hyde Park, an outstandingly prestigious residential apartment block is now being built. The project, costing in the region of 350 million GBP, is designed to deliver the highest quality accommodation with prices reaching over 8 million GBP for the roof-level apartments. To accommodate this development, it was necessary to demolish the existing Bowater House office block and reroute traffic into the park.
THE CLIENT/CONTRACTOR Expanded is a company within the Laing O'Rourke Group, specialising in structural work. They have been appointed to carry out the first phase of the development, from the demolition of Bowater House to creation of the completed structure ready for fit-out. Laing O'Rourke is moving towards a position where all its new work is carried out based on 3D models, onto which a 4D and 5D planning capability is superimposed. Having reviewed the market place, the Company has committed to trial Synchro on this project.
BACKGROUND Expanded won enormous positive recognition for the way it delivered the Ascot Grandstand on time and on budget in 2006. To do this it used many of the techniques to which it was exposed in working on the T5 project and the use of a 3D model was seen as a valuable part of this. However, they lacked a real working tool, to give them a dynamic oversight of the schedule of activities needed to optimise results. Because of its hugely crowded and busy location, Expanded management felt they needed to be very precise in the way they worked week by week on the site. Synchro is used to normalise the understanding of design and delivery for all project stakeholders, to better illustrate constraints and offer a medium in which to test solutions. WHY SYNCHRO? Expanded selected the Synchro software application for a number of reasons:
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Because of the project's hugely crowded and busy location, Expanded management felt they needed to be very precise in the way they worked week by week on the site. Synchro was used to normalise the understanding of design and delivery for all project stakeholders, to better illustrate constraints and offer a medium in which to test solutions. The software could absorb easily the 3D outputs from its drawing centre in India with changes assimilated as they occurred and without the need to return to the start point each time. Its ability to handle the design components at individual or grouped level so that the view of the weekly work schedule could correspond with different peoples' needs. Its ability to bring in all the logistical implications of the programme to help position cranes, roads, stores in a city centre site where logistics play a crucial role. Being sure that work
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was logistically sequenced at each level in the right way was seen as crucial. Logistics are seen to be the key consideration for the delivery of the site to plan. The opportunity to compare visually different strategies to understand flaws and wins for one route over another and share these with different trade specialists. The interoperability with other planning systems Speed and simplicity of the approach.
WHAT SYNCHRO PROVIDED
The assimilation of 3D models as provided with some element of proofing and the provision of a location breakdown that met the users' needs. Staff training The creation of logistics items and linking of 4D programme from 2D planning schedule
THE OUTCOME
The subcontractor’s planning team, including Crown House, Mallings and others were able to understand clearly the delivery program in advance of accessibility of site, thereby rectifying logistical issues, such as the requirement for delivery room and tactical issues such as assembly sequences of e.g. pre-cast steel and other building components.
SYNCHRO AT WORK FOR: POWER CONSTRUCTION, CHICAGO PROJECT: BIM COMMERCIAL CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS "I hear a lot that there are things you just can't see. Synchro allows us to take the model, assemble it, put it to a schedule and analyze it. Synchro helps visualize potential problems and allows you to better assess the situation at any given time." -- Jim Schrader, BIM Manager Power Construction Company, LLC
Power Construction is deploying Synchro's 4D software for model-based scheduling in the strategic plan of its building information modelling (BIM) management. The firm serves five private-sector client types with more complex projects:
Corporate : office, R&D, data center, distribution, parking deck, light manufacturing, training, conference, clean room, fitness, food service Developer: mixed-use, office, residential, hotel, distribution, medical office, outpatient, retail, entertainment, fitness, senior living, athletic, classroom, lab, residence, central plant, conference, data Education: center, fitness, food service, library, office, parking, performing arts, retail Healthcare: full range of acute care and outpatient facilities Hospitality: guest rooms, ballroom, conference center, lobby, administration, parking, fitness, pool, restaurant, food service, retail, senior living.
The firm gives to its 225 professionals and 200 trades' people a simple, straight-forward objective: understand the expectations of clients, architects and subcontractors, then work hard to exceed those expectations. Power is intent upon gaining the many advantages of business information modelling to exceed expectations and gain repeat business from which more than 90% of Power's workload is awarded.
THE CONTRACTOR Founded in 1926 in Chicago, Power Construction Company, LLC is an 82-year old managementowned commercial construction company with a unique business model. Power has chosen to limit its geographic reach to just the greater Chicago area. With more than $500 million in revenue each year, Power is the largest builder working exclusively in this region. In its 82-year history, Power Construction has never been in litigation for performance matters with any client, architect or subcontractor.
SYNCHRO APPLICATIONS Power is using Synchro primarily for construction site logistics after developing 4D construction models from shop drafts. Jim Schrader likes the ease of use of Synchro, especially when it comes to updating files, in order to gain the benefits of 4D business information modelling. Since November 2007 he has used Synchro at his previous company on multiple projects in healthcare, school and hotel construction projects for site logistics and scheduling prior to his coming to Power, where he introduced Synchro for BIM management. Synchro has found a place in Power's strategic plan for virtual project management and scheduling. He is able to track through utilization the predicted and actual schedules as well as use it for site logistics. He sees value in Synchro 4D for soft clash detection. In 2009, Jim plans to roll-out Synchro Server further to enhance site logistics for Power Construction. SPECIFICATION Jim values the way in which the Synchro graphic engine works with its speed and the excellent ability to manipulate the file with scheduling in 4D. With his training as an architect, Jim prefers to build the schematic model in 3D first and then link it to scheduling. Further, he cites "huge benefits in the object engine of Synchro." Power Construction uses the Synchro software application for a number of reasons:
Power wants to build and rigorously test their construction models in 4D. It wants to be able to uncover potential problems early. The company uses Synchro to track and manage project scheduling. It deploys Synchro to manage site logistics in the field. Power has built Synchro into the strategic plan for its BIM and virtual construction management.
WHAT SYNCHRO LTD PROVIDES 4D simulation software Support for construction modelling techniques Ongoing technical support, advice and upgrades for the software.
OUTCOMES Synchro has become a useful tool for BIM construction model development and analysis. The scheduling feature helps Power understand the project better to: Visualize potential problems with the construction model created from digitized shop drawings. Schedule, track and re-schedule projects quickly and easily. Manage site logistics efficiently in real-time in the field. Optimize the many benefits of business information modelling with technology designed for it. "Synchro is extremely user-friendly," said Jim Schrader. "It's the best 4-D scheduling asset around."
SYNCHRO AT WORK FOR: MANITOBA HYDRO PROJECT: WUSKWATIM POWER GENERATING STATION "The multiple views -- the bird's eye and plan views -- are key to showing the overall picture. In some high impact decisions it really helps to bring everyone onto the same page." -- John Cassano, P. ENG Schedule and Cost Control Engineer, Wuskwatim Engineering Dept, New Generation Construction Division
The $1.6 billion Wuskwatim Generating Station is being developed by an equity partnership between the Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation (NCN) and Manitoba Hydro. NCN had significant input into the development of the project's Environmental Impact Statement and in September 2001 both parties signed a non-binding Agreement-in-Principle for the project providing an equity partnership in the project if NCN elected to exercise the option. NCN and Manitoba Hydro became official business partners offering the opportunity to own up to 33% of the Wuskwatim Generating Station. This cooperative approach to planning the project includes combining traditional knowledge with scientific knowledge toward the environmental assessment studies. Although current projections show that Manitoba's domestic demand for new power is not required, advancing the in-service date of Wuskwatin to 2012 from 2020 would mean that additional export revenues and profits are possible.
MANITOBA HYDRO Headquartered in Winnipeg, Manitoba Hydro is a Crown Corporation and the province's major energy utility and: - Exports electricity to more than 30 electric utilities in four wholesale markets in Canada and the USA's Midwest. - Maintains a position as the lowest cost provider of domestic electricity rates in Canada. - Serves more than a half-million electric customers and a quarter-million natural gas customers in Manitoba. - Generates nearly all its electricity from self-renewing water power from 14 hydroelectric generating stations primarily on the Winnipeg, Saskatchewan and Nelson Rivers. - With capital assets-in-service at original cost exceeding $11 billion is one of Canada's largest, energy utilities and is governed by the Manitoba Hydroelectric Board.
SYNCHRO APPLICATIONS Manitoba Hydro first discovered Synchro at the 2007 Annual Primavera User Conference in Orlando and was intrigued by the alternatives offered in a demo there. The utility then put Synchro to work initially in its bidding process in a repeatedly, concrete-driven schedule and to show the process both to management and the construction team. "Synchro really paid dividends during the analysis of our General Civil Works contracts," said John Cassano, Schedule and Cost Control Engineer. "Using Synchro, we were able to analyse various schedule alternatives proposed by different bidders."
In order to develop the 4D model, Manitoba Hydro used 2D concrete pour drawings to create a 3D rendition of the entire generating station. This model was then linked to the master construction schedule (created in Primavera) and from this a 4D model was born. Synchro was used to show the sequence of how the generating station was being built and compare the different schedules proposed by each contractor. Synchro also became a communications tool for sharing a common view of the construction sequence with management and key team members. "We needed to present these alternatives to a large group of people who are responsible for selecting the best value option," John Cassano said. "With Synchro we were able clearly to show the differences in the bids and everyone in the room was 'on the same page'. For now, we are primaraly interested in the concrete sequencing but have plans to incorporate the turbines, generators and cranes into our 4D model."
SPECIFICATION In addition to bidding and communications Manitoba Hydro has used Synchro to test their own construction approach. In one of the main structures attached to the power house, for example, Synchro helped identify problems with the master contruction schedule that may have, otherwise, gone unnoticed until it were too late. The utility envisions that Synchro could possibly save time on the construction schedule, which in their business becomes an especially valuable commodity. Further, Manitoba Hydro values Synchro's capability to help them envision "what if" scenarios, when other options need to be explored. Manitoba Hydro uses Synchro because: It helps management more clearly assess alternative schedules proposed by various bidders. It finds value in envisioning the construction approach as well as testing the validity of their master construction schedule. It specifically preferred to see this project from multiple views through the functionality provided specifically by Synchro. It wants the capability to discover potential problems early, run 'what if' scenarios and quickly re-synchronize the plan, as necessary.
WHAT SYNCHRO LTD PROVIDED Demonstrations to project management 4D simulation software Tutorials for training One-on-one technical advice from service-minded experts Ongoing technical support, advice and upgrades for the software.
OUTCOMES Synchro has helped Manitoba Hydro add clarity to the bid review and evaluation process. Synchro has helped the utility company address problems in their master construction schedule. It has helped communicate the project's construction to stakeholders and management. It will help them share a common view with their contractors and supply chain. It helps them identify new options and manage solutions to save time and money. "Everything we have asked Synchro to do, it has done," said John Cassano. "It was very easy for me to pick up. We've got some pretty big plans for interfacing 3D drawings with Synchro."
SYNCHRO AT WORK FOR: HILL INTERNATIONAL PROJECT: MULTIPLE HIGH-RISE CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS WORLDWIDE "If a picture is worth 10,000 words, what is 10,000 pictures working together worth?" Shawn Pressley, Director of Project Management, Hill International
Hill International has 2,000 professionals in 70 offices among 30 nations and one of the largest construction claims practices in the world. Hill's construction claims services accounted for approximately one-third of the company's consulting fee revenue in 2007. In 2006, the company made acquisitions that tripled the size of the construction claims business segment. This segment assists its clients in preventing and resolving disputes that arise over the course of the construction process such as delays or cost overruns.
THE CONTRACTOR Hill International provides program management, project management, construction management and construction claims services. Engineering News-Record magazine recently ranked Hill as the 11th largest, construction management firm in the United States. Hill is the fastest-growing firm in the United Kingdom among the top 250 architecture, engineering, quantity surveying and project management firms, based upon growth in UK staff from 2006 to 2007, according to Building magazine. (Oct. 17, 2007) Hill is the 3rd largest U.S. buildings construction management firm, according to Building Design & Construction magazine. (July, 2008) Hill is the 12th fastest-growing firm in the United States and Canada among the top 200 architecture, engineering and construction consulting firms according to The Zweig Letter. (October 26, 2007)
To learn more about Hill International, please visit their web site at http://www.hillintl.com/.
SYNCHRO APPLICATIONS Hill International is the project manager for construction of some of the tallest high-rises in the United States and worldwide with a major presence in the Middle East. Hill is using Synchro primarily for its construction claims practice. However, the company will use Synchro, as well, for: 路 Presentations to win new work by using 4D model simulation to help analyze delivery approaches to new buildings and help show how a building project would come together utilising world-class, project scheduling techniques with logical accuracy and visual simulation from start to completion. 路 Risk management to understand better as well as help identify and schedule risks from well defined, mitigation approaches.
SPECIFICATION Hill International considers the unique part of Synchro to reside in the scheduling for the visual construction with 4D modelling simulation. The company uses the Synchro software application for a number of reasons: · Hill International wanted to understand business realities more clearly to better manage claims for delays and cost over-runs. · The company seeks to win bids for new business by offering clarity to owners through the deployment of Synchro at presentations as a "virtual builder" to simulate construction plans with 4D modelling. · Synchro helps Hill International to manage and resolve delivery risk.
WHAT SYNCHRO LTD PROVIDED · Support for construction modelling techniques · 4D simulation software · Training of the Claims Management Team · Ongoing technical support for its software.
OUTCOMES Synchro has become a useful tool for claims analysis and resolution, risk management and new business development among many high-rise projects underway worldwide. The stand-alone scheduling feature, as well as the integration with Primavera's world-class scheduling system P6, enables Hill International to clearly see what was planned and to play forward or backward to envision what is actually happening at critical junctures through the project delivery. The scheduling feature helps Hill International understand the project better to: · Visualize and help resolve the root causes of time delays. · Visualize the full effects of planned and unplanned changes on downstream project activities in the logical diagram. · Trouble shoot the project sequences and dependencies by visualizing scheduling conflicts in areas which create unforeseen dependencies and/or unsafe working enviroments. · Show how time problems can impact project costs. · View project snapshots at critical phases, which can be examined either prospectively for planning or retrospectively to analyse and resolve claims. "With Synchro we can run what-if scenarios," said Shawn Pressley. "We can take the schedule and make it a virtual builder. Synchro helps us show the owner that we have thought through the work and it will enable the owner virtually to see the project built."
SYNCHRO AT WORK FOR: TISHMAN CONSTRUCTION OF NEW JERSEY PROJECT: REVEL ENTERTAINMENT’S $2 BILLION ATLANTIC CITY CASINO "While it's possible to create an image of a building in your mind, to see it take shape on screen, in sequence, creates a much more effective shared understanding with the entire delivery team." --Christopher Seliga First Vice President of Tishman Construction in Charge of Scheduling Eastern U.S. Operations
THE CONSTRUCTION MANAGER Revel Entertainment named Tishman Construction Corporation of New Jersey as the Construction Manager for the project. Tishman Construction Corporation of New Jersey (TCC), the New Jersey building arm of renowned New York-headquartered builder Tishman Construction Corporation, is a privately held Construction Manager, Owner's Representative and Project Manager active nationwide. As one of the nation's most active builders, TCC and its affiliates rank:
#1 on New York Construction's Top Construction Managers List for NY, NJ and CT #5 in the nation on Building Design & Construction's Top Construction Managers List.
TCC and its affiliates' current and recent projects in New York include:
Freedom Tower at the World Trade Center 7 World Trade Center Bank of America Tower at One Bryant Park Reuters Americas Headquarters and Conde Nast Headquarters in Times Square.
SYNCHRO APPLICATIONS With Synchro, an entire construction delivery team -- owners, engineers, architects, operators, contractors, sub-contractors, manufacturers and materials suppliers -- can share a single view of the entire project in real time. Synchro offers an enhanced visual simulation approach to the management of construction projects by synchronizing design, planning and scheduling, supply chain management, risk management and earned value measurement.
SPECIFICATION Tishman Construction considers the unique part of Synchro to reside in the scheduling for the visual construction with 4D modelling simulation. The company uses the Synchro software application for a number of reasons:
Revel and Tishman wanted to understand the project's evolution in real-time. Both client and project manager could communicate better to resolve change orders. Synchro serves as a "virtual builder" to simulate construction plans with 4D modelling. Synchro helps Tishman to share collaboratively with Revel a common view of a massive and complex, multi-billion dollar project.
WHAT SYNCHRO LTD PROVIDES
Support for construction modelling techniques 4D simulation software Training of the Revel and Tishman project management teams.
OUTCOMES As Construction Manager, Tishman is committed to working with Revel and applying Synchro's real-time based 4D model for idea generation and problem solving within the project team consisting of subcontractors, architects, vendors and suppliers to deliver this landmark hotel/casino complex.
TAKE A TEST DRIVE. To experience the power of Synchro, take our 10 day, risk-free, test drive at www.synchroltd.com. If you want to learn more or would like a demo, please contact us.
Synchro Ltd
Online:
Design Hub 2.3 Coventry University Technology Park Swift Road, Coventry CV1 2TT
www.synchroltd.com t: +44 (0) 2476 792209