Alar Jost, CEO of beyondBIM makes one thing clear: real digitalization in construction demands open, cloud-based data structures, standardized interfaces, and a shift in mindset across all project phases. The following summarizes the podcast interview
Digitalization in Construction: Thinking Beyond BIM
In the conversation with Alar Jost, one thing becomes clear: Digitalization in construction doesn’t stop at 3D models. It’s about how data flows between stakeholders and how systems interconnect. As Alar points out, “As long as every tool only speaks for itself, BIM remains a nice visualization — not a true integrated solution.” Without open standards and a common data language, the true potential of digitalization remains untapped.
Technical Foundations: Open Data Structures
A key topic is the creation of open, interoperable data structures. Alar Jost draws a parallel with online banking: Only after the introduction of standardized systems like IBAN did online banking become widely adopted. Transferred to construction, this means that digitalization in construction requires standardized formats, interfaces, and communication protocols — not only for procurement and construction documentation but also for the building’s operational phase. Proprietary solutions alone are not enough.
Cloud-Based Data Transfer: Beyond a Buzzword
Another focus of the episode is the importance of cloud-based data transfer. It’s not just about where data is stored, but how smartly it flows: Sensors, monitoring systems, and planning data must be combined and made accessible in real time. Alar emphasizes, “It’s not enough to hand over a stack of documents at the end of a project. We need to build digital twins during the planning and construction phases that can seamlessly continue into the operational phase.”
Integrating into Operation: The Future of Construction Data
One of the biggest technical advantages of true digitalization in construction lies in building operations and maintenance. Alar explains, “When planning maintenance, renovations, or repurposing, we need current, consolidated data.” Systems must be designed to maintain and evolve digital data throughout a building’s lifecycle — dynamically, not statically. BIM models without continuous data logistics do not meet this requirement.
Outlook: Digitalization in Construction as a New Value Chain
The discussion concludes with a clear future vision:
Digitalization in construction must evolve into a continuous value chain. Planning, construction, operation, and refurbishment should be seamlessly linked through integrated data. To achieve this, the industry needs:
Unified cloud platforms
Defined open standards
Reliable and transparent interfaces
Alar Jost calls on the industry to have the courage to move away from isolated, proprietary systems and work toward truly interoperable solutions.