Virtual Design And Construction: A New Communication In Construction Industry

Construction projects involve a high degree of complex procurement processes. The increasing use of Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) is changing the way of working in the construction industry. VDC, a visual representation of data, is introduced for a better communication to clients in a clear and concise way. Its implementation in bidding stage is to support the construction planning in virtual environment and expected to improve efficiency, speed and accuracy. With the introduction of VDC follows the creation of new roles and new ways of communicating within the industry. The aim of this paper is to identify the application of VDC practices during bidding stage. This includes parties involved in the bidding stage, their perception on what bidding that applies VDC should possess and definition and perceived benefits of VDC. An interview was conducted in one of the Malaysia's largest construction companies. The finding shows that there is high agreement concerning the goals of VDC within the company. A team of specialist and employees who possess VDC skills were employed. The company heavily invested on technology in order to be competitive and remains relevant. The environment of bidding that involves VDC presently is at infancy stage. Finally, the utilization of VDC in bidding stage and other stages of project cycle needs an active engagement and support from the government and all actors for it to reach its maturity.