Construct NSW: Digitalisation of Construction: Detailed Report on Digitalisation of Design and Construction of Class 2 Buildings in New South Wales

This report presents the findings of a research project set out to review the state of digitalisation of the class 2 (multi-unit) building sector of the New South Wales construction industry with specific reference to the production of design drawings and as-built drawings. It involved a detailed worldwide literature review followed by gathering data through a quantitative survey of class 2 building designers and builders (including developers). The survey included questions regarding the organisation profiles, design/ drawing submission processes, IT infrastructure and digital capability, subcontractors and suppliers, training, research and development, drivers and barriers, which provided a current market snapshot of NSW’s class 2 building sector. The survey received 542 valid responses from 347 designers and 195 builders, resulting in a sample size that achieved a 90% confidence level. A large proportion of the sample were registered members of peak industry bodies representing designers and builders, including the Building Designers Association of Australia (BDAA), Australian Institute of Architects (AIA), Association of Consulting Architects Australia (ACA), Housing Industry Association (HIA), Engineers Australia (EA), and Master Builders Association (MBA). The data were then further verified and expanded through a series of qualitative interviews involving building designers, builders and software service providers representing small, medium, and large companies. The findings provide an overview of the current state of digitalisation relevant to class 2 buildings in NSW and map the feasible levels of digitalisation that can be achieved over the years. Further, it proposes a strategic framework for digitalisation of design and construction of class 2 buildings aimed at enhancing the state of digitalisation over the next decade and beyond.