Virtual design and construction (VDC) is the use of integrated, multidisciplinary models of a construction project, covering the product (the facility itself), the work processes and the organisation of the design, construction and operation team, to support clearly stated business objectives.
The approach was developed at Stanford University’s Center for Integrated Facility Engineering. Building information modelling (BIM) is one of the main methods used in VDC. Beyond the usual three dimensions of geometry, models can be linked to time (often called 4D) and to cost (5D). In practice, VDC is used to detect clashes before work starts, plan sequencing and logistics, and produce quantities from the model. For the quantity surveyor, model-based quantities can speed up estimating, but they should be checked for:
- elements that are missing or not modelled in enough detail
- quantities that do not follow the agreed measurement rules, such as NRM
- items that are not normally modelled, such as temporary works and preliminaries
Related terms: BIM, 4D planning, 5D cost, clash detection.
