With the help of 3D models, buildings and facilities can now be completed in a computer before construction operations have commenced. The use of such a method resolves many issues and problems that would otherwise arise during the actual construction process. The method is called Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) and, since late 2007, NCC has been focusing intently on introducing it throughout the company. To date, its impact has exceeded all expectations. With more than 160 ongoing projects in which 3D models are being used, NCC is a global leader in Virtual Design and Construction, according to Professor Martin Fischer at Stanford University in the US, an institution with which NCC cooperates:

"With over 160 projects using VDC (Virtual Design and Construction) to help manage the construction phase, NCC is leading general contractors around the world in the widespread application of VDC to improve the construction of buildings and infrastructure."

Provides all parties with a common view

In the virtual construction process, 3D models are used to visualize, integrate and automate the various processes that are under way during a construction project, such as project design, costing, work planning and purchasing. Traditionally, two-dimensional drawings and descriptions from architects, technical consultants, suppliers and so forth have been used.

This results in the challenge of ensuring that all actors have a common view of the project and the conceived work process required to complete it. Hundreds of different paper documents are concerned that together constitute the project, which must be comprehensible for all of the project participants, even for those that are not involved on a day-to-day process. Modifications that frequently arise during the course of a project can be difficult to communicate to all of the parties concerned due to the extensive and, in many cases, difficult-to-grasp documentation.

Fewer defects and cheaper

In those NCC projects in which 3D models are used for communication, it has been possible to take many decisions at an early stage of the process and to ensure that all of the parties are given the same impression of the project right from the start. The construction process has had a better flow and no major surprises have disturbed the work processes. Follow-ups of these projects show that up to 17% of the production costs can be saved when 3D models are used.