Data and the Built Environment

This book takes a data-first approach to framing the built environment sector’s unique challenges and how industry can address them through better use of data. It describes how the sector has failed to derive value from data, and the common causes underlying this failure. It then provides practical guidance on how to use data to construct and operate built environment assets in a manner that better meets society’s needs. The book examines how industry norms, organizational culture, and our personal behaviours contribute to the successful use of data. It sets out a philosophy and vision for the use of data in the built environment, and how this in turn might help the sector realise better outcomes in terms of cost, schedule, quality, and sustainability. Data is a valuable asset, one that the built environment sector must generate, protect, manage, and exploit. The book works as a holistic primer to data and the built environment, written both for those who are new to data or the built environment, and including deep-dive material that will provide insight to experienced professionals.

Ian Gordon is Leader in Data Advisory and Advanced Analytics at Arup. He has applied his extensive knowledge to a plethora of critical national infrastructure projects. His commitment to using data for societal benefit is evident in his role at Arup, where he aims to forge better outcomes for society through innovative data utilization. He has held data (and data-adjacent) leadership positions at a range of large client organizations. Highlights include stints as Head of Data Architecture and Engineering at National Highways, Project Director for System Integration on Thames Tideway, Interim Head of Performance at Network Rail, Southeast Route, and most recently Head of Data at the Houses of Parliament Restoration and Renewal Programme. He is also passionate about interoperability and Digital Twins where he has collaborated with the Centre for Digital Built Britain, the Infrastructure Client Group, Innovate UK, and the Digital Twin Hub. Ian holds a Bachelor of Science in Geography with Economics from the London School of Economics. Neil Thompson is a Fellow of the Institute of Engineering & Technology, Chartered Construction Manager via the Chartered Institute of Building, and Member of the Data Management Association. He currently serves as Director of Digital Integration & Delivery at AtkinsRéalis, bringing a unique perspective as a Chief Technology Officer in a complex defence portfolio and a member of a major joint venture senior leadership team. Previous roles include the Head of Construction Innovation Hub Programme for the Centre for Digital Built Britain (joint venture between Cambridge University and UK Government), Head of Digital Integrity and Head of Digital Research and Innovation at Balfour Beatty. He is also Chair of the Built Environment for the Institution of Engineering and Technology and Honorary Associate Professor at the Bartlett School of Sustainable Construction, University College London. His academic background has positioned him as a leading voice in the industry, contributing significantly to industry reports and government policy formation on a global scale. He holds a Bachelor of Engineering degree with honours in Building Services Engineering, a Master of Science in Construction Economics and Management from the Bartlett, University College London and a Certification in Virtual Design & Construction, Stamford USA.