The Irish Government established Build Digital in 2021 as a priority action of the Construction Sector Group’s Innovation and Digital Adoption sub-group. Its mission was clear: to support the digital advancement of Ireland’s construction and built environment sectors.
From the outset, Build Digital was designed as a collaborative project, bringing together five Irish universities: ATU, MTU, SETU, TU Dublin, and UCD with industry stakeholders and Government representatives. This unique partnership created a platform for knowledge exchange, innovation, and the development of practical supports that would guide the industry through its digital transformation.
Evolving with the Industry
Like many ambitious projects, Build Digital has evolved over time. Advances in technology, coupled with pressing societal challenges such as the need to deliver housing and infrastructure more efficiently, have influenced the project’s objectives and targets.
One of the most significant pivots for Build Digital came in response to the Government’s Building Information Modelling (BIM) requirements, introduced into the Capital Works Management Framework in January 2024. Often referred to as the Irish BIM Mandate, this policy requires the adoption of the ISO 19650 series of standards, Uniclass classification, Industry Foundation Classes (IFC), and the International Cost Management Standard (ICMS) for all public sector projects by 2028.
By aligning Ireland with international best practices, the BIM mandate has enhanced the country’s competitiveness on the global stage, while driving greater consistency and efficiency across the construction sector. Build Digital has responded by creating a suite of supports to help industry stakeholders meet these new requirements.
Collaboration at the Core
At the heart of Build Digital’s work lies a belief in the transformative power of collaboration. By working across industry, academia, and Government, the project has fostered a strong foundation of shared knowledge and expertise. This collaborative approach ensures that the supports, resources, and tools offered by Build Digital are both practical and future-focused.
Through its centralised role, Build Digital not only helps stakeholders align with legislation but also encourages the wider adoption of digital tools and workflows. This engagement is key to creating a culture of innovation, problem-solving, and continuous improvement across the sector.
Key Milestones Ahead
Looking to the months ahead, Build Digital has two major milestones on the horizon:
A Future of Digital Transformation
While Build Digital was initially established as a five-year project, the adoption of digital tools and practices will be an ongoing evolution for Ireland’s construction and built environment industries.
Looking ahead, collaboration and connectivity across all sectors of the industry will be vital for the efficient delivery of Ireland’s housing and infrastructure needs. Through digital adoption, knowledge sharing and information management will become more streamlined, enabling organisations to deliver projects more effectively and on time.
Build Digital’s journey reflects both the challenges and opportunities facing the Irish construction sector. By embracing innovation and collaboration, the sector is paving the way for a more connected, efficient, and digitally empowered future.
If the work of Build Digital is of interest to you, please see the Build Digital Annual Conference, or take part in this survey at www.builddigitalproject.ie/engage
Construction Jobs Expo is returning to Dublin in 2025! This careers fair will take place on Saturday, 11th October (11am-4pm) in RDS' Shelbourne Hall. This careers fair will be dedicated to the construction and engineering sectors and will feature hundreds of active job opportunities. Construction Jobs Expo is the only careers exhibition of its type to feature FREE ADMISSION.
What can you expect at Construction Jobs Expo ?
Agenda Stage
Construction Jobs Expo's Agenda Stage will host talks on a variety of topics including jobseeking skills such as using social media to land your dream job and interview techniques as well as a CV writing workshop. Other seminars include talks by industry insiders on a variety of career topics.
We look forward to seeing you at Construction Jobs Expo !
