Understanding Common Data Environment
Common Data Environment (CDE) is an online platform to store your project information, including documents, models, updates, RFIs, etc. It allows the stakeholders involved in the project to find, share and update information related to the project.
In other words, a CDE is a central digital hub as part of a typical BIM workflow. The CDE was originally created as part of the UK BIM Standard Level 2. Today it is evolving and going beyond BIM, it can include everything from schedules, project contracts, RFIs, etc.
Project information aggregated within a common data environment can be used both before and after completion. The functions within it are used to coordinate between engineers, investors and builders during the design and construction phase. Building information can also be reused to repair or improve certain components in the building.
Most enterprises cannot create a CDE due to a number of key barriers. Therefore, common data environments are created as a third party service to serve project stakeholders. One of them is Autodesk Construction Cloud, BIM360, Procore, etc.
Basic Features of CDE
Today, a wide variety of common data environments are developed to serve various needs in construction management. However, it all has these main features:
Data storage and management
During the design and construction process, there is always a large amount of documents exchanged between contractors, investors and builders such as project contracts, drawings, etc. So managing all that data properly is a huge challenge. A common data environment was created to optimize data flow and keep stakeholders on top of the latest project information.
Scheduling and submittal
Scheduling tools keep your projects on time, and keep team members on track. Schedule it efficiently and submit it to your clients.
Request for Information
A good common data environment always has a place for contractors and investors to request missing information, or change information about plans and schedules. It is usually a request for engineers or architects to clarify details or make changes to conform to standards.
Instant & Remote Syncing
In this 4.0 era, you don’t need to meet in person to discuss requirements and changes anymore. To connect parties from all over the world, CDE was created for contractors, investors and builders to synchronize data remotely and instantly.
Integrations
Not only a place to exchange information and data, a CDE must also integrate with BIM software so that engineers and architects can quickly update building information between design tools.
Top 5 New CDE platform in 2022
oceanBIM Platform
oceanBIM is a cloud-based construction management platform that helps investors, subcontractors, specialist contractors, engineers, architects work together wherever they are. Only an account and password is required to log into the platform.
The oceanBIM platform includes advanced tools including scheduling, drawing management, document management, conflict management, material quantity management, phasing management, and cost management. It provides a real-time messaging solution that helps stakeholders communicate with each other better. Strict version control of plans and documents.
The main functions on the 3D model help to increase the visibility of the building, extracting data and quantities from different phases of the project.
RedTeam
RedTeam is a software that covers the entire lifecycle of a construction project, from planning to completion and renovation. It includes tools like bidding, project management, estimating, submissions, RFI, change orders, and scheduling.
In addition, it also supports digital contracts, documents and processes that accelerate the project. The data is updated in real time so members are always stay on track when working remotely. It provides an efficient collaboration solution including free mobile apps.
Fieldwire
Key features of Fieldwire are real-time messaging, task assignment, inspection management, scheduling, and marking up plans. It improves job site coordination, tracks team performance, and reduces risk. Fieldwire helps coordinate field and office, assign tasks, and work on the latest drawings.
Oracle Aconex
Oracle Aconex is a CDE that includes tools for collaboration such as project management, data management, cost management, field management. Support project management, reduce risks and connect teams.
Oracle Aconex provides efficient and secure data management to easily manage documents and models of any size, type, or number of files. It controls versions, tracks workflows, and reports based on real-time analytics.
Other features include communication and forms, BIM coordination, automated quality and safety processes, integrated cost management, and out-of-the-box reports and dashboards.
Smartsheet
Smartsheet provides a central platform that helps users plan, coordinate and manage a variety of construction projects in the residential, commercial, industrial and infrastructure industries.
Smartsheets can be used throughout the life of the project. Help connect office and field teams, subcontractors, and other stakeholders. It offers custom templates for pre-construction, resource management, safety management, field operations, quality control, and reporting.
Additional Information
There are many common data environments on the market, but finding the right CDE for your business is a big challenge. oceanBIM provides you with an effective data management solution at a much lower cost than others, suitable for small and medium businesses. In addition, they have the ability to customize the platform according to your requirements. To make sure this platform is right for you, check out the oceanBIM platform tools at: https://oceanbimcloud.com/construction-management-app/
