Mortenson Construction Recognized for Leadership in Design Technology

Minneapolis, MN – Mortenson Construction is ranked among the best architecture, engineering, and construction companies in the nation in Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology, according to a recent report by Building Design + Construction, a leading industry online and print publication. 

In Building Design + Construction’s first annual Top 170 Adopters ranking, published as part of its 2009 Giants 300 survey, Mortenson Construction is one of only two pure contractors to make the top 50. The rest of the list is comprised of traditional architecture and design firms.

BIM is a component of Virtual Design and Construction (VDC), a collaborative process that allows architects, engineers and builders to explore a project virtually before it’s built on site.  It produces an interactive model that incorporates three dimensions: height, width, and depth.  A fourth dimension, time, can be added by combining three dimensional information with the project’s schedule. The model is then analyzed and used to help the customer make necessary decisions related to design, construction, and long-term operations of their facility.

Mortenson’s leadership in VDC began more than twelve years ago with the construction of the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles.  The unique, complex design challenged many standard construction practices and required innovative building techniques.  After realizing the incredible value of this tool, Mortenson invested in the technology and additional team member training, and made a commitment to integrate these tools on its projects to improve project outcomes and deliver better buildings. 

Previously used only on large, complex buildings, Mortenson now engages some form of VDC on all of its construction projects, regardless of size.  Most recently, VDC was used successfully on Target Field, the Minnesota Twins Ball Park currently under construction, and TCF Bank Stadium at the University of Minnesota, which opened this month. 

For Mortenson, VDC provides increased understanding and communication among project team members, improved safety planning, enhanced design coordination, better site logistics and more efficient work plan sequencing.  One important cost-saving benefit of the construction modeling software is that it identifies clashes between mechanical, electrical, structural and architectural building elements that helps solve problems before they become expensive to fix.  But, the value of VDC goes beyond dollars and is measured by real, tangible experiences that Mortenson’s customers, project partners, and on-site project teams experience every day.

“The benefits of this technology are tremendous.  By constructing the facility virtually, we can find numerous ways to increase efficiencies and reduce the time and cost of construction,” says Ken Sorensen, vice president and general manager of Mortenson’s Minneapolis operations. “In addition, it’s a great communication tool.  We find that the ability to share 3D information with our project partners leads to a more collaborative, trusting relationship throughout the entire project process.”

See the complete BIM story from Building Design + Construction at http://www.bdcnetwork.com/article/CA6668193.html.