Consulting-Specifying Engineer Article: “Benefits of Data and Visualization in a Construction Project”

SSOE’s VDC Technical Leader Evan Collier, CM-BIM, recently authored a Consulting-Specifying Engineer article where he focuses on the challenges the AEC industry faces, particularly with requests for information (RFIs) and internal communication. He also discusses how data and visualization can help improve communication, even in large projects.

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Four Fundamental Enablers of VDC

Within SSOE, we’ve identified four fundamental enablers of VDC—essential elements to have in place for truly successful implementation of VDC project delivery.

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#1: Information capture (laser scanning) – for an accurate picture of current conditions. 3D laser scanning is the fastest, most efficient method to capture existing conditions of many facilities or sites. This replaces the time consuming and less accurate method of manually recorded field measurements. Now, lasers scan an existing facility or site creating a point cloud that acts as a highly accurate as-built drawing. The point cloud can be referenced into a 3D model to avoid collisions with the proposed design and costly rework in the field—resulting in an incredibly realistic and detailed 3D model of an existing facility.

#2: Coding structure for models – to allow data mining to automate and enhance certain functions, like quantity take-offs for estimating. This requires each model element have a unique code, and also that coding is consistently used from the very onset of a project. This concept encourages a more holistic approach to project delivery by leveraging data embedded in the models to improve and optimize other project efforts such as estimating, quality assurance, safety, documented savings, and more.

#3: Internal integration of the model – the ability to integrate design efforts between disciplines; one example is conducting multi-discipline reviews within the 3D model. SSOE’s 3D design review sessions bring together discipline leads before a client coordination meeting to hash out the agenda for the next meeting with project stakeholders. The agenda is a critical component in driving coordination success and serves as a framework to identify specific issues that need to be addressed during the meeting to move the project forward. One key benefit is that the internal review engages the design leaders by getting them into the model to find, track, and proactively resolve issues, as opposed to simply reviewing drawings prior to the meeting. Issues that require resolution or decisions from the client are captured within the model, and any later input from project stakeholders is added to keep a visual record of changes.

#4: External model collaboration during the execution of the project – the processes and technology required to gather input and create alignment with the fabricators, trades, and contractors into the model during construction. Methods to facilitate this collaboration, such as Interactive Planning (IAP) sessions, are also essential, even before the development of the model.

Coordination within the model takes place as various trade partners enter routing and fabrication-level detail (including hangers, supplemental supports, etc.) into their trade models which are used to generate submittal drawings for approval. These individual models are brought into one coordination model to uncover conflicts and avoid costly issues in the field that would otherwise be missed.  For example, on one project, once detailed models of the fire suppression systems and mechanical systems were put into the coordination model, it was discovered that there wasn’t enough clearance around the fire suppression system and the mechanical system design was adjusted prior to construction.

Performing external model coordination does for the entire construction project what internal model integration does for cross-discipline coordination. It highlights interferences, provides one “source of truth” for making adjustments, and drives the discussion and collaboration needed between partners to improve project outcomes so the owner knows exactly what will be built in the field.

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VDC Project Delivery 101

Many engineers and architects have spent a larger proportion of their careers on the design side of the project lifecycle. As we evolve to using VDC methodology on an increasing number of projects, it’s important that each individual grows their understanding of what happens after design to achieve a better, more constructible design. This understanding is critical for implementation of VDC and integrating design and preconstruction services into the project delivery process. Read more

What is Laser Scanning?

3D laser scanning is the fastest, most efficient method to capture existing conditions of many facilities or sites. Replacing the time consuming and less accurate method of manually recorded field measurements, lasers scan an existing facility or site, creating a point cloud that acts as a highly accurate as-built drawing. Laser scanning is extremely useful when there are no existing drawings or the information on the drawings is outdated for a project. Read more

What is an Interactive Planning (IAP) Session?

Interactive Planning (IAP) sessions serve as a platform to enhance collaboration between a cross-section of project stakeholders and team members to explore, discuss, and reach solutions about a particular aspect of a project. By bringing together all key members of a project team, we’re able to more effectively map out critical milestones, schedule considerations, and necessary tasks to support the achievement of those milestones. The session recognizes and reminds team members that the end in mind is a business objective that must be met, and looks for the best means to meet those objectives. The solutions and approach that emerge when your project is framed in terms of your business goals can be much different than those that focus on generating a set of drawings or simply putting up a building. Read more

Giving clients more for their money through innovative software

In our latest newsletter, we are highlighting the outstanding performance of Jonathan Bolbach and Mark LaBell, winners of SSOE’s Founder’s Award. Their accomplishment — developing the AutoNavis software application — met two of the award’s key criteria: delivering exceptional value to clients by saving them time, trouble, and money and implementing an innovation that leads to improved processes and quality. Read more

SSOE Group to Sponsor, Present, and Exhibit at Autodesk University 2023, The Design and Make Conference

TOLEDO, Ohio, November 6, 2023 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), an internationally ranked architecture and engineering firm, announced today their Silver Sponsorship of Autodesk University 2023, The Design & Make Conference where they will exhibit at booth 867, showcasing how they leverage Autodesk solutions to deliver large, complex projects to clients. Additionally, they will have nine experts present four sessions. SSOE’s  Vince DiPofi, PE, Chief Executive Officer; Catherine Myers, PE, President; Jeremy Woodgate, PE, SE, Chief Operating Officer, Advanced Technology and Process Engineering; Mathew Bierschbach, Business Leader; Lauren Collier, Associate AIA, Director, Project Technology; Mark LaBell, Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) Operations Practice Group Leader; Lisa Lewis, Project Management Assistant; James Malcolm, Senior Software Developer; and Jonathan Bolbach, Senior Software Developer, have been selected to speak at this year’s event to be held November 13-15, 2023, at The Venetian Convention & Expo Center in Las Vegas, Nevada. Read more

Pulling back the curtain on VDC

In moving a project from statement of work to completion of construction, regular collaboration between owners, designers, and contractors is no longer a luxury. It is the managerial insurance the project must have in order to stay on schedule and budget. Much of the unbudgeted time and expense incurred by change orders can be attributed to a lack of integration between the players. It’s often because these parties failed to include the resources and intentional effort for collaboration. Read more

Leveraging the Benefits of LCI

In earlier posts, we’ve uncovered that the AEC industry is one that hasn’t seen the rapid efficiency, productivity, and quality improvements that sectors such as manufacturing or healthcare have experienced. At SSOE, we recognize there is a fundamental shift that needs to take place in the way projects are delivered to achieve similar significant strides in those areas. And, because we’re looking to make entire projects lean, these practices must be embraced industry-wide (by owners, partners, vendors, contractors, etc.) to reach their full potential through collaboration. One organization looking to facilitate this shift in the industry is the Lean Construction Institute (LCI). Read more

Lab Manager Article: “Using the Cloud’s Latest Technologies for Data Integrity, Security, and Scheduling”

In this recent Lab Manager article, SSOE’s Lauren Collier, Associate AIA, Director of Project Technology, discusses what cloud technology has to offer to the AEC industry. Firms not only need to invest in this technology, but she explains how it will only be optimally beneficial if frontline leaders recognize and champion the benefits and engage in the necessary processes for their employees’ success. Read more

VDC Steel

Structural steel is often critical to both the timeline and budget of a project. It is also an area in which SSOE has set itself apart through a well-defined VDC execution strategy. In fact, the modeling to detailing capabilities of VDC Steel, along with some of the piping detailing we are performing, were recently identified by a contracting partner as one of SSOE’s main differentiators from our competition. With this perspective, let’s take a quick look at what VDC Steel entails. Read more

The icing on the cake: almost $20 million in documented savings

In the AEC industry, when a client asks for a project to be completed “faster, better, and cheaper,” chances are they will be told that two out of three is about as good as it gets. Thanks to technology, integrated delivery methods, and an exceptional team effort, SSOE raised the bar and delivered on all counts on a recent project for a global leader in the food industry.

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Area Development: “A Look at Integrated Project Delivery From the Inside Out”

Lauren Collier, Associate AIA, Department Manager, VDC Global Initiatives, and Senior Associate recently authored an article for Area Development. In the article, she discusses how Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) makes the most of all the project participants’ experience and escalates effective communication to diminish risk. By doing so, this approach reduces costly last-minute project changes therefore saving the client time, trouble, and money.

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Digital Builder: “Autodesk Construction Cloud Introduces New Data Sharing Capabilities to Transform Construction Collaboration”

SSOE’s Luis Ángel Garcia, Project VDC / BIM Specialist in our León, Mexico office, was featured in this Autodesk Digital Builder blog article announcing the much-anticipated Bridge application. Aptly named, this transformational new collaboration capability connects project data for internal and external teams within the Autodesk Construction Cloud. Read more

SSOE’s Lauren Collier Named a 2023 Autodesk Construction Champion

TOLEDO, Ohio, September 1, 2023 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), an internationally ranked architecture and engineering firm, is proud to announce that Lauren Collier, Director of Project Technology at SSOE, has been named a 2023 Autodesk Construction Champion. The Autodesk Construction Champions is an annual, global awards program that recognizes 25 construction thought leaders who are making waves in the industry by driving innovation and change. Learn more about Collier by viewing her Construction Champion profile here. Read more

Lab Manager Article: “BIM Tools Provide Construction Advantages”

Lauren Collier, Associate AIA, Department Manager, VDC Global Initiatives and Senior Associate at SSOE Group, recently authored an article in Lab Manager describing how 3D modeling utilizing BIM 360 provides visualization, transparency, and collaboration while also helping projects remain flexible and within budget. BIM 360 is a game-changer for the AEC industry by providing a tool that offers a detailed depiction of the project development in an open and highly collaborative environment. Read more

Building Design+Construction Article: U.S. Engineering Firms Ride on Waves of Innovation

SSOE was recently featured in this Building Design + Construction article “U.S. Engineering Firms Ride on Waves of Innovation” which highlights innovation as being engineering firms’ “best foot forward” in terms of staying competitive. The article opens with a project example where we saved one of our automotive clients over $250,000 by streamlining data capture, utilizing laser scanning, implementing innovative workflows, and more.

To read the full article, click here.

Plant Engineering Article: “Laser Scanning Optimizes Costs, Helps with Standards”

SSOE’s Mark LaBell, Senior Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) Technical Leader, recently authored an article in Plant Engineering. Laser scanning, among the world’s most cutting-edge technologies, is rapidly becoming universally adopted. This article discusses how stakeholders who use laser scanning can increase project efficiency and speed with lower initial costs. Read more

New Equipment Digest Magazine Article: “Define Your Competitive Advantage through BIM 360”

Lauren Collier, Associate AIA, Department Manager, VDC Global Initiatives and Senior Associate at SSOE Group, recently authored an article in New Equipment Digest. In the article, Lauren discusses the benefits of implementing the BIM 360 cloud-hosted environment, especially now that a great number of project teams are working remotely from their homes as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. She explains that because of the collaborative accessibility of the platform, all stakeholders can see what is happening in real-time, making it much easier to capture consensus and sign-off at every phase of the project. Read more

SSOE’s Lauren Collier Named Autodesk’s 40 Under 40 Champions of Construction 2022

TOLEDO, Ohio, November 28, 2022 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), an internationally ranked architecture and engineering firm, is proud to announce that Lauren Collier, Director of Project Technology at SSOE, has been named to Autodesk’s 40 Under 40: Champions of Construction 2022. This annual, global awards program recognizes professionals under the age of 40 who are making big waves in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry for their creativity, forward-thinking, and dedication, particularly over the last several months. Read more

ENR Article: “Contractors Must Develop an Effective Data Strategy to Compete in Today’s Market”

Lauren Collier, Associate AIA, Department Manager, VDC Global Initiatives and Senior Associate at SSOE Group, recently authored an article in Engineering News-Record (ENR). In the article, Lauren gives insight on how effective data management strategies are key to better decision-making as well as executing seamless, quality projects delivered on time and on budget.

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ENR Article: “Quality Control, Support Key to Maximizing the Value of Laser Scanning”

SSOE’s Mark LaBell, Senior Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) Technical Leader, recently authored an article in Engineering News-Record (ENR). Laser scanning is among the world’s most cutting-edge technologies and is starting to become adopted universally. This article discusses how leaders must tweak their current quality assurance / quality control processes to make laser scanning a successful tool for their business. Read more

New Equipment Digest Article: “Ingenious Innovations for Scanning”

SSOE’s Mark LaBell, Senior Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) Technical Leader, recently authored an article in New Equipment Digest. With the need to do more with less becoming more prominent in recent years, project teams are finding it increasingly necessary to stretch budgets and deliver quickly. This article discusses how laser scanning is a primary solution for budget optimization and that, with the right combination of expertise and technology, project teams can achieve things that were never possible in the past. Read more

Manufacturing.net Article: “What Has to Change to Optimize VDC?”

Lauren Collier, Associate AIA, Department Manager, VDC Global Initiatives and Senior Associate at SSOE Group, recently authored an article on Manufacturing.net where she details what project teams need to change in order to optimize the benefits VDC has to offer. VDC, if implemented properly, can be a critical element in maximizing return on investment. She explains that taking full advantage of target value delivery, technology and data, time, and having cost certainty can really help project owners stand out from the rest of the pack. Read more

SPAR 3D News Article: “Who Owns the Data?”

Tony Sabat, BIM / CAD Technical Specialist at SSOE, recently authored an article on the SPAR 3D blog titled “Who Owns the Data?” The value of data has been tremendous to the built environment. But as data capture grows, who really owns this data? Data has been seen as the new oil, but does that analogy fit the value proposition of the industry? With the nuances of the data we look to extract, this can be a confusing question. In this article, Tony investigates these questions and discusses how data ownership can evolve. Read more

New Equipment Digest Article: “Advance Your Project with Advance Work Packaging”

Lauren Collier, Associate AIA, Department Manager, VDC Global Initiatives and Senior Associate at SSOE Group, recently authored an article in New Equipment Digest where she explains that Advanced Work Packaging (AWP)—an industry response to a reduction in resources and the overall cost and capital of projects—is built on the premise that aligning engineering and procurement packages results in more efficient productivity. She notes that by creating these packages to deliver work, industrial projects can be delivered at a higher quality, faster, and with less cost. Read more

Area Development Article: “The Value of Laser Scanning to Your Food Facility Project”

Mike Vetter, PE, PMP, Senior Project Manager and Senior Associate for SSOE’s Food and Consumer Products (FCP) Division, recently authored an article in Area Development. In this article, he discusses how capturing the data of an existing food processing facility though laser scanning can help with the buildout of a new or customized operation. Read more

SSOE Group’s Lauren Collier Promoted to Director of Project Technology

TOLEDO, Ohio, August 30, 2022 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), an internationally ranked architecture and engineering firm, is proud to announce the promotion of Lauren Collier, Associate AIA, to Director of Project Technology.

Collier started her career at SSOE more than 15 years ago as an architect in training who transitioned to technology taking on the role of BIM / VDC Technical Specialist. In this position, she specialized in the research and development of current and future architectural software and worked on advancements in BIM technologies. Since joining the firm, she has held positions of increasing responsibility including Technical Leader, BIM / CAD; Section Manager, Design Technology; Section Manager, VDC Global Initiatives; and most recent Department Manager, VDC Global Initiatives before her promotion to Director of Project Technology. Read more

LiDAR News Article: “Minimum Effective Dose of Accuracy”

Tony Sabat, BIM / CAD Technical Specialist at SSOE, explains in this article featured on the LiDAR News blog how reality capture is no longer a race for accuracy. The market has seen a greater need beyond accuracy; other conditions need to considered such as cost and speed. With these considerations entering a potential customer’s field, the reality capture industry has evolved into a spectrum of accuracies coupled with the issues of time and cost. What is your minimum effective dose of accuracy?

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New Equipment Digest Article: “Steel Package Delivery as an Integrated Whole”

Josh Zimmerman, Section Manager for SSOE’s BIM2Fab™ Steel Group, recently authored an article in New Equipment Digest where he explains how an innovative Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) project approach allows architecture and engineering firms, such as SSOE, the ability to bring the detailing and steel fabrication optimization process in-house at the beginning of the project instead of the middle—saving real time and real dollars.
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SSOE’s Lauren Collier Conducts Autodesk BIM / VDC Master Class

TOLEDO, Ohio, June 23, 2022 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), an internationally ranked architecture and engineering firm, announced today that Lauren Collier, Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) Department Manager, has been selected to conduct an Autodesk Master Class for those currently pursuing or interested in advancing their career in BIM / VDC—a growing profession. Read more

Manufacturing Automation Magazine Article: “Insights to Capture the Full Benefit of Laser Scanning”

Mark LaBell, BIM / CAD Technical Leader, recently authored an article on laser scanning featured in Manufacturing Automation Magazine. Within, Mark discusses how laser scanning speeds up a project, reduces costs, and improves safety. Although there are challenges when adjusting laser scanning for specific projects, he writes that understanding project goals is key. Laser scanning is quickly becoming the go-to tool for reality capture—replacing the time consuming and less accurate method of manually recorded field measurements and ultimately creating an incredibly realistic and detailed 3D model. The article dives deeper into insights and benefits of using this innovative technology.  Read more

SPAR 3D Article: “How Accurate is the Marketing of Accuracy in the Reality Capture World?”

Tony Sabat, BIM / CAD Technical Specialist at SSOE, explains in this article featured on the SPAR 3D blog how the rise of reality capture has opened up the market to more inexpensive, easier-to-use hardware, resulting in many new professionals using a technology with which they are unfamiliar. This is where the issue of marketing tactics comes in, as users heavily relay on the accuracy claims—more specifically, the percentage of accuracy statements made by the manufacturer. Tony goes on to explain how these numbers can be misleading and the importance of educating yourself before making a purchase. Read more

AEC Next Article: “Could Blockchain be the Missing Link for the AEC / Built World Industry?”

Tony Sabat, BIM / CAD Technical Specialist at SSOE, examines whether blockchain is just hype or something more in this AEC Next article. As the industry prepares for a boom in disruption and innovation, the term blockchain—described in the article as an “open distributed ledger that can record transactions between two parties efficiently and in a verifiable and permanent way”—comes up repeatedly. With transparency built into the technology, Tony explores what blockchain could mean to the AEC industry and built world. Read more

Assembly Magazine Article: “Computational Fluid Dynamics Software Saves Time, Cuts Costs”

Dewayne Galyon, Basebuild Technical Specialist at SSOE, spotlights the value that computational fluid dynamics (CFD), a simulation software that models airflow, offers when designing a cleanroom environment in this Assembly Magazine article. Dewayne urges readers to avoid trial and error methods to keep characteristically high construction costs at bay, while starting the project off right with clean, complete data within the model. He drives his points home with project examples throughout the article, including an overview of a fast-track multi-basebuild, ISO 4 cleanroom installation project that helped SSOE solidify our ongoing relationship with Micron Technology. Read more

AEC Next Article: “Drones Are Getting AEC Professionals to Ask the Right Questions About Reality Capture”

Tony Sabat, BIM / CAD Technical Specialist and one of several licensed drone pilots at SSOE, discusses the shift in reality capture as a result of drone / unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology in this AEC Next article—spoiler: reality capture is now easier than ever. Using this non-destructive technology to generate a 3D model can be a game changer, allowing you to turn assets into detailed, accurate deliverables. With the drone’s speed, mobility, and safety, it has become the most efficient method for capturing the existing conditions of many facilities and sites, with added benefits downstream. Read more

BD+C Magazine Article: “Laser Scanners Go Handheld”

Jason Christen, PMP, Senior Account Executive at SSOE, and Mark LaBell, Senior VDC Technical Leader, were both featured in a BD+C Magazine article that examines the rise of 3D laser scanners, which have recently evolved into handhelds. 3D laser scanning is the fastest, most efficient method to capture existing conditions. In addition to allowing us to scan harder-to-reach places, handheld scanners provide the ability to show clients results immediately after taking a scan with a workable model showing an accurate representation of the facility—a major benefit of the technology that often translates into cost savings for our clients. Read more

SSOE’s Mark LaBell Named Autodesk’s 40 Under 40 Champions of Construction 2021

TOLEDO, Ohio, November 3, 2021 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, is proud to announce that Mark LaBell, Head of Innovation at SSOE, has been named to Autodesk’s 40 Under 40: Champions of Construction 2021. This annual and global awards program recognizes professionals under the age of 40 who are making big impacts, demonstrating exceptional leadership, and displaying their ability to inspire, educate, and advance the industry in ways worth admiring. Read more

Informed Infrastructure Magazine Article: “Optimizing Time with VDC: Steel”

Featured as the cover story in a recent issue of Informed Infrastructure Magazine, Josh Zimmerman, VDC Steel Section Manager, explores the workflow and key considerations necessary to optimize the benefits of VDC Steel in this article. Coordination, collaboration, and clarity of scope are of upmost importance when using this delivery system. Within, Zimmerman provides a short case study on a project for Starwood Capital Group where a concurrent approach to design and steel detailing was used to meet an aggressive project schedule. Read more

Area Development Magazine Article: “Streamlining the Construction Project to Deliver Ahead of Schedule and Below Budget”

New Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) for steel technology seamlessly integrates steel design, fabrication, and erection with reduced cost and a faster schedule.

Josh Zimmerman, VDC Steel Section Manager at SSOE, is featured in the November issue of Area Development Magazine. Within, Josh describes how Virtual Design and Construction methodology can be applied to the steel detailing process and result in significant schedule reduction. This is accomplished by creating fabrication-ready models quicker and earlier in the construction workflow—moving the timing of steel detailing to occur congruently with structural design on the project. Two examples are explored in the article, one saving 2.5 months on the construction schedule through early coordination of design and detailing associated with VDC Steel. Read more

SSOE’s Lauren Collier to Present at Autodesk University 2021

TOLEDO, Ohio, September 23, 2021 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, announced today that Lauren Collier, Associate AIA, Department Manager of VDC Global Initiatives and Senior Associate, has been selected to speak at Autodesk University (AU) 2021. The global event will be held digitally October 5 – 14, 2021. Read more

Modelo Blog Article: “Design Manifestos”

Lauren Collier, Associate AIA, was recently featured on Modelo Blog’s “Design Manifestos” discussing her career path to Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) Manager. With over 10 years of industry experience, Lauren offers a glimpse into her professional journey – from making the decision to study architecture and interning with SSOE, to her evolution into the project execution realm. Now a key member in SSOE’s VDC initiative, she’s responsible for enforcing corporate BIM / VDC standards and developing innovative new technology strategies and processes. Read more

Aerospace Manufacturing and Design Magazine Article: “Achieve Optimal Cost and Flexibility Through an Integrated Approach”

SSOE experts, John Gill, PE, PMP, Director of Virtual Design and Construction, and Mike Duffey, PE, Principal Account Executive, explore the many benefits of combining an integrated approach with Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) to achieve a collaborative aerospace facility. With this approach, significant advantages result, including a more transparent and collaborative team environment that fosters participation and valuable input during the early stages of a project, increased flexibility and efficiency during the project’s development in the virtual world, and reduction of RFIs. On average, SSOE has seen 20%+ schedule reduction through strategies including concurrent engineering and the use of prefabrication and modularization. Read more

Building Design + Construction Magazine Article: “Managing Risks with Laser Scanning Gives AEC Firms an Edge”

Mark LaBell, BIM / CAD Technical Leader, was interviewed for this recent article on laser scanning featured in BD+C Magazine. Within, Mark discusses SSOE’s rapid and widespread adoption of 3D laser scanning to capture existing conditions of facilities or sites and reviews the investments needed in not only software, hardware, and personnel training, but also third-party vendor relationships needed to fully support laser scanning data processing and modeling. Laser scanning is quickly becoming the go-to tool for reality capture—replacing the time consuming and less accurate method of manually recorded field measurements and ultimately creating an incredibly realistic and detailed 3D model. Read more

Medical Construction & Design Magazine Article: “Virtual Design & Construction: Transforming the Operation of Healthcare Facilities”

John Gill, Director of VDC and Craig Pickerel, Architect and Section Manager take a look at how VDC has already transformed the way design and construction teams work together to develop new healthcare facilities—and where they see additional benefits in the future in Medical Construction & Design Magazine. The pair provides insight into specific ways VDC could enhance operations, maintenance, and management of a healthcare facility, improve the patient experience, and enhance staff efficiency and performance. Read more

BOSS Magazine Article: “Facilitating a Culture of Global Collaboration with Technology”

SSOE Group is a leader in leveraging the latest technology to enable integrated and collaborative project delivery. SSOE Group was featured in BOSS Magazine, in an article highlighting the company’s technology strategy and culture — both of which are helping provide better solutions to clients. Driven by collaboration, SSOE is using innovative tools and customized applications to deliver high quality projects more efficiently, while working to maintain employee engagement along the way. Read more

ENR Magazine Article: “A Healthy Market Spurs Investment in Plants”

Firms being asked to play a bigger role in providing expertise

Dave Sipes, Chief Operating Officer at SSOE Group, was featured in this article recently published in Engineering News-Record (ENR). The article highlights manufacturing, a particularly robust market currently, and the need within this market to improve processes — with an emphasis on output. Popular among manufacturers is integrated project delivery, a concept that focuses on collaboration and commitment among all parties, which is successfully executed with the help of highly evolved technologies like 3D modeling and laser scanning. Read more

Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Magazine Article: “Virtual Design & Construction Brings All Parties Together”

In this article featured in the October, 2015 issue of Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Magazine, SSOE’s Ed Royzman, PE and John Gill, PE, PMP take readers through an overview of Virtual Design & Construction (VDC) and its role in removing barriers between the phases of project delivery. Royzman and Gill take a look at how the benefits of VDC were leveraged on one FDA-compliant pharmaceutical project – providing significant value for process validation by allowing designers, fabricators, and contractors to input detail into the model. This resulted in a more accurate picture of building conditions, with the added benefit of all commissioning and validation efforts recorded for future facility adaptation. Read more

ENR Article: “Design Professionals Must Embrace VDC to Improve Their Profession and Projects”

John Gill, PE, PMP, LEED AP, SSOE’s Director of VDC, was recently published in Engineering News-Record (ENR) discussing the topic of Virtual Design and Construction (VDC). Gill has over 20 years of industry experience and was responsible for the implementation of SSOE’s VDC program. He writes on the many strengths the VDC framework has to offer our industry, and offers some tips for implementing a solid foundation on your next project. Read more

Building Design + Construction Article: “When is it Safe for your Firm to Adopt New Technologies?”

Mark LaBell, BIM/CAD Technical Leader at SSOE Group, and Lauren Collier, Assoc. AIA and Design Technology Section Leader, are both featured in this article recently published in Building Design + Construction Magazine. The article discusses the recurring theme of reluctance to technology that exists in the conservative realm that is the AEC industry. Despite the opposition, when implemented well, innovation can offer a better way with the rewards surpassing the risks. Read more

GlobalAutoIndustry.com Article: “Tropicalize a Project Plan to Keep it On Schedule — Deploying Projects in Mexico When Timing is Everything”

Cultural and commercial variances between the U.S. and Mexico can sometimes result in construction delays or expensive component substitutions. When strategic plans rely on heavily maintaining schedules, the following insights, which are often grouped under the head of tropicalization, should add confidence to the planning and executing of projects here in Mexico. Read more

SSOE BIM Experts to Present at Autodesk University 2020

TOLEDO, Ohio, November 6, 2020 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, announced today that Mark LaBell Jr., Senior VDC Technical Leader, and Justin Lipsey, Project VDC / BIM Specialist, have both been selected to speak at Autodesk University (AU) 2020. SSOE’s Larisa Flory, Assistant Project Manager, and James Malcolm, Senior VDC Technical Leader, will join Lipsey as co-presenters for his session. The event will be held digitally on November 17 – 20, 2020. Read more

Design-Build Institute Article: “An A/E Perspective on Optimizing the Design-Build Strategy”

Matt Oberts, PE, LEED AP, Automotive and Industrial Division Facilities Manager at SSOE, recently published “An A/E Perspective on Optimizing the Design-Build Strategy” for Design-Build Institute of America. In his article, Oberts talks about design charrettes, which he defines as “an intensive, collaborative session that is held as early as possible in the life of the project.” This daylong assembly of project participants — from both the design side and the build side — sets the foundation for a successful project in which goals and objectives are understood, agreed upon, and ultimately achieved. Additionally, the design-build process itself becomes increasingly effective by employing the various components of Virtual Design and Construction (VDC). Through early process planning, and optimal implementation of 3D/BIM technology and measureable benchmarks, a design-build project has the potential to exceed client expectations, regardless of whether the focus is schedule or budget. Read more

SSOE Group’s Mark LaBell to Participate in Webinar Panel Discussing Cintoo Cloud during the Virtual SPAR 3D Expo & Conference 2020

TOLEDO, Ohio, September 23, 2020 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, announced today that Mark LaBell, Senior VDC Technical Leader, has been selected to participate in a webinar panel during the SPAR 3D Expo + Conference 2020. This event will be held virtually on September 24, 2020, from 11am – 12pm ET. Read more

ARCHITECT Magazine Article: “Designing in a Cloud”

A roundup of tools and services that architects are using to break free from company servers and physical boundaries.

Lauren Collier, Assoc. AIA, design technology section manager at SSOE Group, is featured in this article recently published in ARCHITECT Magazine. The article reviews recent industry trends related to cloud-based system use, going beyond file sharing and backup. Companies are beginning to incorporate the cloud into schematic design, project management, energy performance analysis, renderings, and other outsourced tasks. The cloud offers adept speed that releases us from our dependency on less-efficient company servers, and generating productive collaboration.

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SSOE Group to Host 31 High School Students during Annual “Engineer for a Day” Program

TOLEDO, Ohio, February 14, 2020 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, will host 31 students from local area high schools; Tecumseh, Dundee, and Ida, as part of Engineers Week. Focused on promoting entry into the engineering profession, Engineers Week takes place February 17 – 21, 2020 in locations across the country. Engineers Week is a way to increasing the understanding of and interest in engineering and technology careers and helps address the shortage of talent in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) careers by increasing public dialogue about the need for engineers and other STEM professionals. Read more

SSOE BIM Experts to Present at Autodesk University Las Vegas 2019

LAS VEGAS, Nevada, October 30, 2019 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, announced today that Mark LaBell Jr., Senior VDC Technical Leader has been selected to speak at Autodesk University (AU) Las Vegas 2019. SSOE’s Charles Berteaux IV, AAE, ACP, BIM / VDC Department Manager and Justin Lipsey, Project VDC / BIM Specialist will bring their reality capture expertise to act as lab assistants during the first session. The event will be held November 19 – 21, 2019 at the Venetian Hotel. Read more

SSOE Proud Sponsor of “A City in Transit” Gala X Expo Hosted by Midstory Media ThinkHub

TOLEDO, Ohio, July 31, 2019 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global architecture, engineering, and construction management firm, announced today that they are a proud sponsor of the “A City in Transit” gala x expo hosted by Midstory, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to retaining, cultivating, and attracting young people in post-industrial communities—beginning in Toledo, Ohio—through creative storytelling and solutions-oriented projects. This event will take place on Saturday, August 3, 2019 at the Downtown Toledo Train Station, third floor, from 4pm – 9pm. Read more

Tony Sabat, One of SSOE’s Top BIM Experts, to Present Two Sessions at the Joint AEC Next and SPAR 3D Technology Expo + Conference 2019

ANAHEIM, California, May 03, 2019 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, announced today that Tony Sabat, BIM / CAD Technical Specialist, has been selected to present two sessions during the AEC Next and SPAR 3D Technology Expo + Conference 2019. This event will be held May 21 – 23, 2019 at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, California. Read more

SSOE BIM Experts to Present Three Sessions at Autodesk University 2018

LAS VEGAS, Nevada, November 6, 2018 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, announced today that Mark LaBell Jr., Senior VDC Technical Leader and Tony Sabat, BIM / CAD Technical Specialist, have been selected to speak at Autodesk University 2018. The event will be held November 12 – 15, 2018 at the Venetian Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada. Read more

SSOE Experts to Present “Key Strategies to Create Impactful Learning Environments” and “Programs, Building Blocks, Etc.” at the 2018 AIA Ohio Convention

TOLEDO, Ohio, September 27, 2018 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global architecture, engineering, and construction management firm, announced today that several of their architectural experts were invited to present at the 2018 AIA Ohio Convention. This event will take place on October 4-6, 2018 at the Renaissance Toledo Downtown Hotel. Read more

SSOE VDC Expert Mark LaBell to Present at Advancing Construction Technology Conference

CHICAGO, Illinois, July 27, 2018 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, announced today that Mark LaBell, Jr., Senior Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) Technical Leader, has been selected to present at the Advancing Construction Technology 2018: Improving Field Productivity conference, which will take place August 20-22 in Chicago.

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SSOE Group Partnering with Toledo Public Schools on Pilot Apprenticeship Program

TOLEDO, Ohio, August 25, 2017 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, is partnering with Toledo Public Schools (TPS) on a pilot apprenticeship program to engage students at the high school / pre-college level and provide them exposure to science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) careers. Today, engineering is one of the fastest-growing, best-paid careers for recent college graduates, and this growth is projected to continue into the future. Read more

SSOE Experts Lauren Collier and Mark LaBell to Present at Annual 2017 Ohio Facilities Construction Commission Conference

TOLEDO, Ohio, August 2, 2017 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, announced today that Lauren Collier, VDC Department Manager, and Mark LaBell Jr., Senior VDC Technical Leader, have been selected to present at the annual Ohio Facilities Construction Commission (OFCC) Conference. This year’s event takes place over the course of four different dates in locations around the state of Ohio: August 15th in Columbus, August 23rd in Cincinnati, August 30th in Cleveland, and September 12th in Columbus. Read more

SSOE VDC Experts to Present at Autodesk University 2016 on Laser Scanning / Reality Capture Best Practices

LAS VEGAS, Nevada, October 26, 2016 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, announced today that Senior VDC Technical Leader, Mark LaBell Jr. and VDC / BIM Section Manager Tony Paupert have been selected to present at this year’s Autodesk University. The event will be held November 15 – 17, 2016 at the Venetian Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada. Read more

SSOE’s Douglas Furia to Present on Virtual Design & Construction at the Fall 2016 BIMForum

ATLANTA, Georgia, October 11, 2016 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management announced today that Project VDC / BIM Coordinator, Douglas Furia will speak at the Fall BIMForum, to be held October 17-19, 2016 at the Hyatt Regency Atlanta. Read more

DiPofi and LaBell of SSOE to Present at PSMJ’s THRIVE 2016 – THE A / E / C Industry Summit

NASHVILLE, Tennessee, September 19, 2016 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, is proud to announce that Vince DiPofi, PE, Executive Vice President / Chief Strategy Officer and Mark LaBell, BIM/CAD Technical Leader, have been selected to present at PSMJ’s THRIVE 2016 – The A / E / C Industry Summit. The event will be held October 12-14, 2016 at Loews Vanderbilt Hotel located in Nashville’s exclusive Midtown. THRIVE 2016 provides attendees with a chance to learn, network, and to get an eye-opening perspective on what the world’s most successful  A / E / C firms are doing right now to thrive. Read more

Howell and Gill of SSOE to Present at the 18th Annual Lean Construction Institute LCI Congress

CHICAGO, Illinois, September 16, 2016 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management, announced today that CEO Bob Howell and Director of Virtual Design & Construction (VDC) John Gill will present at the 18th annual Lean Construction Institute (LCI) Congress in Chicago, October 5 – 6, 2016. Read more

SSOE and Autodesk Host First Reality Capture Summit

TOLEDO, Ohio, May 26, 2016 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) firm along with Autodesk, Inc., an American multinational software corporation that makes software for the architecture, engineering, construction, manufacturing, media, and entertainment industries, hosted their first Reality Capture Summit on Thursday, May 12, 2016 at SSOE’s world headquarters. Read more

SSOE BIM Expert Mark LaBell to Present on Laser Scanning at the Spring BIMForum 2016

MINNEAPOLIS, Minnesota, April 8, 2016 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) firm, announced today that Senior VDC Technical Leader, Mark LaBell Jr. will speak at this spring’s BIMForum: BIM and the Built Environment, to be held on April 20 & 21at the Hyatt Regency Minneapolis. Read more

Three SSOE Strategy & Technology Experts to Present at the Association for Strategic Planning (ASP) Annual Conference

SAN FRANCISCO, March 11, 2016 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) firm, announced today that Chief Strategy Officer, Vince DiPofi, PE, along with Dan Vining, General Manager, EPCM, and Lauren Collier, Associate AIA, Integrated Project Delivery Specialist, have been selected to speak at the Association for Strategic Planning (ASP) Annual Conference. The event will be held March 16 – 18, 2016 at the Sheraton Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco, California. Read more

Mark LaBell of SSOE to Present “Reviewing the Role of Laser Scanning to Create Preliminary 3D Digital Representations of a Structure to Incorporate into BIM Models” at the BIM Integration Congress 2015

San Francisco, California, August 14, 2015 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) firm, is proud to announce that Mark LaBell, BIM/CAD Technical Leader at SSOE, has been selected to present at BIM Integration Congress 2015. The event will be held August 26-27 at Hotel Kabuki in San Francisco, California. Read more

Two SSOE BIM Experts Presenting at the 2015 North American Revit® Technology Conference

Washington, D.C., July 20, 2015 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) firm, announced today that two BIM specialists from the company’s Portland, Oregon, office will present at the fifth annual North American Revit Technology Conference at the Crystal Gateway Marriott in Washington, D.C., July 23 to 25, 2015. Read more

Three SSOE BIM Experts Selected to Present at the 2014 North American Revit Technology Conference

PORTLAND, Oregon, June 16, 2014 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) firm, announced today that three BIM specialists from the company’s Portland, Oregon, office have been selected to present at the fourth North American Revit Technology Conference at the Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Hotel in Chicago on June 19 to 21, 2014.

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SSOE Group Announces Bob Howell as the Next President and CEO

Toledo, Ohio – June 3, 2014-— SSOE’s Board of Directors announced today that it has selected Bob Howell to be the next President and CEO of SSOE Group—a global engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) firm . Effective December 3, 2014, Bob Howell will assume the reins from current CEO, Tony Damon, who announced his plans to retire late last year.

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