Capture the construction site in 4D and forecast the consequences for the construction project — modern software from Amberg Loglay makes this possible. The tool is a key success factor for medium-sized and large construction and renovation projects, especially when it comes to efficiency and planning.
It is groundbreaking and unique: the Cadmium software combines BIM (Building Information Modelling), lean management, and logistics into a single application. The goal is to design processes and construction logistics so that work on-site is carried out as error-free, cost-effectively, and efficiently as possible. Thanks to Cadmium, it is possible to reconcile target and actual planning and execution at any time and to initiate a continuous improvement process.
What is BIM-LEAN-LOGISTICS?
BIM-LEAN-LOGISTICS combines three disciplines into one integrated approach. Building Information Modelling (BIM) provides the data-rich 3D model of the structure. Lean Construction applies the principles of lean production to the construction site: avoiding waste, synchronizing workflows, and focusing only on value-adding activities. Logistics ensures that materials, space, and resources are in the right place at the right time.
The difference between BIM and Lean lies in their roles: BIM is the digital representation—it defines what is being built and in what quantity. Lean is the methodology—it determines when and in what sequence construction occurs to prevent waiting times and excess inventory. Only when the model (BIM) is linked with the schedule (Lean) and the material flow (logistics) does a predictably manageable construction site emerge. This model-based construction logistics are represented by the "Cadmium" software in a single interface.
BIM, Lean, and logistics united in one software
Cadmium was developed by an international partner in collaboration with Amberg Loglay. The name Cadmium refers to the connection with CAD (computer-aided design) and DMU (digital mock-up), which represent the main functions of the system. One of the driving forces behind this is Matthias Gehrig, who manages the operational business and sometimes participates in planning meetings for major projects himself. There, he guides construction planners into the digital world and vividly demonstrates the possibilities.
BIM-LEAN in practice: the constant reconciliation between the physical and the digital
“The digital twin of the construction project only creates added value when it is used bidirectionally—a continuous reconciliation between the physical and digital worlds. Cadmium enables predictive planning, which can be adjusted at any time in an agile construction project,” explains Gehrig. The tool makes it possible to increase the efficiency of construction processes: it serves as a planning tool, monitors construction progress, and ensures quality. For this purpose, a dashboard can be created from the coordinated data, which is precisely tailored to customer needs and makes relevant construction process flows visible. For example: What is the volume of material to be installed? How many trucks arrive at the construction site per day, per week, or per year? Which company ships how much material to which location? What is the number of vehicles and people outside the building perimeter, and what impact does this have on the surrounding area?
Within the planning team, the respective sub-teams, such as the BIM, Lean, or scheduling teams, are responsible for data preparation. Amberg Loglay supports this as part of the planning team. With a wink, Gehrig explains his company's role: “We lay the foundation for a smooth construction process and ensure that the client can sleep soundly. That is our task.”
“A successful project is only possible in a symbiosis of BIM-LEAN LOGISTICS. Representing this in a digital interface is the key to success.”
Stability for complex construction projects
The data-based BIM-LEAN_LOGISTICS software is an ideal tool for managing major projects. Matthias Gehrig cites an area project involving several project teams as an example. “The challenge was to work on a data center, several commercial and office buildings and a large logistics center at the same time. There were seven project teams involved, some of which were not based in Switzerland, plus many different stakeholders,” says Gehrig. “Using the software brought stability to the construction project.”
The impact of this integrated planning is demonstrated by the construction of the Roche pRED research center in Basel: There, data-based BIM-LEAN-LOGISTICS reduced direct deliveries to the construction site by 40 percent, with a material volume of around 187,000 pallets.
The software also provides useful services for complex conversion or renovation projects. Gehrig refers to branch conversions by major distributors. The conditions for such projects are demanding — limited space, tight schedules, and sophisticated logistics. With data-based support from the software, these challenges do not disappear, but they can be managed in a controlled manner.
The cost factor is also a key focus. “With intelligent planning combined with our software tools, our customers save money, hassle and time,” says Gehrig from experience. “The right equipment is in the right place at the right time.” In other words: the material is ready for the contractor at the work area two to three days before it is needed.
The future of 7D
Amberg Loglay is currently accelerating further developments. To this end, the company is working with various universities. For example, students from the University of Stuttgart, among others, are currently entrusted with a project assignment. The aim is to incorporate students' ideas into further development and to benefit from each other. But that's not all. Matthias Gehrig also intends to integrate construction costs, recycling and moving into a standard process in the future. So there is nothing standing in the way of a 7D future that is not too distant.
