We have used 4D extensively on the mechanical and piping works with specific reference to construction rather than petrochem projects. In particular, it has proved useful in sequencing installation schedules where multiple layers of pipe or ductwork, including cabling trays, have to be installed adjacent to or above each other. The models are taken straight from CADPIPE or CADduct but with slightly less detail on brackets and some of the connection information which really is not necessary as the guys installing the services are more than capable of handling the process at that level. Also, when installing main plant items it is very good for planning logistics and delivery dates well in advance, which with long lead-in times for these items, is of particular use in procurement. All area’s don’t need the same level of planning detail so although the same number of tasks may be available to programme, bearing in mind the additional detail within the 4D planning environment, in discussion with the contractors responsible, we focus on those area’s with the biggest issues for coordinated activities or interfaces between contractors.

I haven’t had any experience of CommonPoint but have worked with A3D’s PAL system over the last 7 years, which is similar to what CommonPoint developed. By using the models as the basis for planning a project, as opposed to linking the programme to the model (it may seem a small difference but makes all the difference), the programme is developed from the design information. That way, when change occurs it can be better managed both in terms of time and cost and associated resourcing.

We work alongside the Construction Planner of the Project or Construction Manager, as the skill set required is a combination of Planner, Construction Manager and CAD technician, which doesn’t necessarily exist in the open market place. The Process has been deployed on over 50 projects of varying sizes and type i.e. commercial; retail; residential; whole city block; high-rise, etc. and uses off the shelf CAD and Planning software so you don’t need to go out and buy a whole new CAD system and you can continue to use your planning software as it was designed to be used, entering resources, running Critical Path Analysis etc. However, at the end of the day you have a model to interrogate everything you do and because you have worked through the model to get there, you know the project inside out along with all the critical interface issues, and can communicate that to all the different levels of people involved in the delivery process.

Hi Arno,

Thanks to you regarding the website link you gave me , infact I had a excellent demo from these people. The fact remains that it is more suitbale for INFRASTRUCTURE WORKS.

Cheers

Sunil

http://www.navisworks.com/index.php

Hi Peter,

I do. I think it’s pretty easy to work with, as long as the drawings are in the right format.

I played around with the Navisworks software a lot for my former employer to figure out if it would be a good idea to start selling it in the Netherlands. It’s compatible with P3 and MsP, and more or less interactive linked to your plan (you will have to tell the software to re-read the planning).
You can make pretty nice ’4d’ stuff with it. A couple of examples are available on the Navisworks website.

Feel free to contact me if you want to know more.

Arno

Why dont you e mail member 7130 Ronan Collins he is into all this stuff
Clive

Have a look at the graphisoft website may help you to do what you want
Clive