Digitisation of Construction: Implenia Leads with Hexagon’s Solutions

Author: Penny Boviatsou

Implenia, a leading name in Swiss construction and real estate, is transforming the 30,000 m2 Kochareal district in Zurich, Switzerland, using advanced digital tools from Hexagon. This ambitious project encompasses 350 residential units, commercial spaces, and a public park, aiming to create a vibrant community for 1,000 residents. Implenia’s adoption of digital workflows ensures precision, efficiency, and seamless collaboration across stakeholders.

Streamlined data management with digital workflows

Thomas Wirth, BIM Manager responsible for digitisation at Implenia, highlights, “For us, the construction of Kochareal is an example project demonstrating how we implement a minimum standard in digital processing. We use many digital tools to bring data, models, and drawings directly to the construction site, enabling employees to work with them effectively.”

Instead of traditional paper-based processes, Implenia has introduced cloud-based workflows. Data and drawings are uploaded to a Common Data Environment (CDE) and synchronised directly to field devices like tablets and the Leica iCON field solutions. “This means we no longer have to manually upload data via USB sticks but can transfer it directly from the cloud to the tablet,” adds Wirth. This approach reduces document revisions and simplifies collaboration, resulting in fewer errors and enhanced project coordination.

Tools and technology

Daniel Garofalo, an experienced construction foreman at Implenia, explains the tools used on-site: “We use Leica iCON solutions here, specifically the Leica AP20 AutoPole and the Leica iCR70, combined with digital drawing’s container and tablets for the foremen.” These integrated tools provide significant value to the builder and all subcontractors, eliminating the need for paper drawings.

The Leica AP20 AutoPole is particularly valued for its automatic inclination compensation, prism recognition, and height determination. Daniel notes, “The AP20 with the iCR70 or iCR80 is, for me, the standard package. I wouldn’t measure any other way.”

Enhanced precision and efficiency

The digital tools have proven invaluable for measuring the complex geometry of the Kochareal. The site features over 600 diamond-shaped supports and columns, along with numerous height and offset measurements. “Using Leica iCON is a huge gain in efficiency, accuracy, and handling,” says Garofalo. “It’s also a lot of fun working digitally and learning new things.”

With easy data synchronisation and intuitive workflows, even less experienced staff can efficiently perform layout and measuring tasks. Wirth shares an example: “A second-year apprentice is performing layout tasks on this project. That would have been unthinkable a few years ago.”

Digital construction practices in action

From planning to execution, Implenia integrates digital processes to enhance the quality of work. As Wirth explains, “We coordinate with planners, builders, and other stakeholders using digital models to design and improve the project proactively.” Real-time access to data ensures that employees focus on relevant tasks, whether constructing walls or setting supports.

Garofalo elaborates on the independence enabled by these tools: “Data goes directly from the planner to the site, where we handle it independently, reducing delays and increasing productivity.”

Advancing toward the future

Implenia views the Kochareal as a benchmark for the broader implementation of digital construction practices. “Our goal is to implement this at all sites, achieving more automation and generating added value,” states Wirth. The company plans to expand the use of iCON solutions and models, moving closer to fully integrating Building Information Modeling (BIM) processes.

Impact and outcomes

The adoption of Hexagon’s solutions at the Kochareal project has elevated project execution through:

• Improved collaboration: The seamless integration of data from a CDE into iCON reduces workflows and prevents outdated planning versions
• Increased efficiency: Automated tools like the AP20 reduce manual efforts and save time
• Enhanced quality: Accurate data and intelligent models minimise errors, ensuring high standards in construction
• Employee empowerment: Digital tools improve accessibility and skills, making work more enjoyable and efficient

As Garofalo puts it, “The future of construction lies in digital innovation. The Leica iCON solutions are not only efficient but also enjoyable to work with, transforming the way we build.”

The Kochareal demonstrates how advanced technologies from Hexagon can revolutionise complex construction projects. By prioritising digitisation and innovation, Implenia sets a new standard for modern construction, delivering enhanced efficiency, quality, and value.