Lean construction is integral to Barton Malow’s culture, aiming to maximize project value and minimize waste. In 2020, Barton Malow and an automotive client were exploring advanced construction management solutions to integrate design and construction processes onto a single platform. The client needed a general contractor who could coordinate effectively with its architecture/engineering firm. We began to explore Autodesk Construction Cloud as a central source of truth for project data, minimizing the need for duplicative file transfers between platforms.
In 2022, Barton Malow initiated the use of Autodesk Construction Cloud on an automotive project where it served as a testbed for developing effective workflows and collaboration strategies. Barton Malow and Autodesk developed a playbook that established best practices for folder structures, permissions, and data management. The playbook was crucial for onboarding new team members and subcontractors, ensuring clarity in roles and responsibilities, and facilitating smooth file turnover to clients.
Our successful integration also involved assisting the client with their implementation by providing training and support, demonstrating the importance of comprehensive training for effective system adoption. We utilized Autodesk Bridge to enable seamless file sharing and collaboration. It allowed each party to retain ownership of their respective files while ensuring everyone had access to the most updated information regarding the project. The system was essential for managing over 1,200 outgoing and 1,600 incoming Bridges, with all updates communicated in real time.
The Issues tool within Autodesk Construction Cloud has been particularly impactful, allowing for collaborative problem-solving in place of traditional Requests for Information (RFIs), which are often less effective in Lean environments. The tool has streamlined communication and facilitated quicker resolutions to project challenges.
Overall, Autodesk Construction Cloud has played a vital role in advancing Barton Malow’s data strategy, breaking down data silos, and ensuring that all project information is up-to-date and accessible. Our Lean construction approach, supported by Autodesk technology, has fostered better collaboration, enhanced efficiency, and contributed to the successful delivery of complex projects, such as the automotive project used to help pilot our use of Autodesk, which is working toward a 2025 completion date.
