In the second in a short series of Q&As to mark the turning of the year, nima vice-chair Casey Rutland sits in the hot seat and reveals his highlights from 2023 and his hopes and plans for 2024 – plus the joy of port and Stilton.
BIMplus: What’s the best thing that happened in BIM and digital construction in 2023?
Casey Rutland: With my nima and buildingSMART UK & Ireland hats on, I’d say we’ve seen a turnaround in approach this year. Rather than having to persuade industry to adopt (B)IM, they’re approaching us to ask how standardised data and information management can help them solve daily business challenges.
I should note that these aren’t ‘BIM’ challenges, but big-ticket items like life safety, decarbonisation (and other sustainability targets), costing, logistics, circular economy and material selection. It’s a huge step forward and one I’m glad to see.
What are you looking forward to professionally in 2024?
“Industry really needs to understand the value of data. Then perhaps avoid starting from scratch when understanding how to structure data about assets.”
Nurturing existing clients, working with new clients. Genuinely making a practical and economical difference in their daily business operations…
What does the industry need to do more (or less of) in 2024?
It’s perhaps a technical answer, but industry really needs to understand the value of data. Then perhaps avoid starting from scratch when understanding how to structure data about assets… It’s too much to delve into here, but watch out for some upcoming buildingSMART UK & Ireland guidance in early 2024.
Do you have any sort of festive ritual?
Yes! For almost 30 years now, I buy my dad a large jar of Stilton cheese from Fortnum & Mason along with a bottle of port and we share it after dinner on Boxing Day… a family tradition, rather than a ritual, but food is a big part of my life experiences!
Recommend a book, podcast, TV series, film or album that you enjoyed in 2023
Aligning with the above, I’d recommend Ultra-Processed People by Chris van Tulleken. I listened to it on Audible while driving as I tend to read a lot for work.
It’s not ‘preachy’, but is written in a personal way. It equips readers with ways to easily understand what foods might not be great for you… that said, enjoy your Christmas season food and drinks in whichever way brings you joy!
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