Inspection case study

Proactive Clash Detection Saves 11 Days on a 30MW Data Center

A leading data center operator is constructing a 30MW facility in France. Known for delivering scalable digital infrastructure across Europe, the client must meet aggressive delivery timelines while managing highly interdependent trades and technical systems. In this environment, undetected clashes or sequencing errors can cause significant delays and rework, making real-time progress tracking and proactive issue resolution essential for staying on schedule and within budget.

TIME SAVINGS

11 DAYS

Program schedule days saved from early discovery

THE PROJECT

Client:
Confidential

Project:
Data Center

Location:
France

Size:
30 MW

Accurate progress tracking is the foundation of success in data center construction. By keeping workflows aligned with demanding schedules and intricate interdependencies, it mitigates the risks of unexpected clashes and delays. Early detection and resolution of errors not only prevent costly rework but also ensure projects remain on time and within budget. This proactive approach enhances cost efficiency, safeguards timelines, and fosters seamless collaboration, ultimately driving operational excellence throughout the construction process.

During a routine daily progress capture inspection conducted with engineering grade augmented reality™ (AR), on this 30MW data center project, the focus centered on tracking the progress of containment installations. This systematic review uncovered a critical design clash between the ventilation duct and the containment brackets installed by the subcontractors.

Observation and error

Issue identified: The design of the ventilation duct conflicted with the location of the containment brackets, causing a potential obstruction to the scheduled containment installation.

critical design clash between the ventilation duct and the containment brackets installed by the subcontractors.

another view of critical design clash between the ventilation duct and the containment brackets installed by the subcontractors.

Knock-on effects of the observation

Had this clash gone unnoticed, the issue would have been discovered only during the installation phase, leading to:

Significant project delays: Redesigning models, rearranging brackets, and redoing installations would have pushed the timeline beyond the scheduled completion date.
Increased costs: The rework would have incurred additional expenses related to labor, material wastage, and updated designs.
Operational disruptions: Subcontractors’ workflows would have been hindered, creating inefficiencies in subsequent phases of the project.

Resolution and impact

The timely identification of the design clash allowed the team to:

Address the issue promptly: The design was reviewed and adjusted to resolve the clash before installation commenced.
Maintain the project schedule: By preventing delays, the project stayed on track, ensuring that the timeline was not compromised.
Enhance cost efficiency: Avoiding rework saved resources, minimized material wastage, and reduced potential financial losses.
Streamline operations: Collaboration with the XYZ team facilitated quick identification and resolution, improving overall workflow efficiency.

Image 3: Inspection following the redesign (South View). — Inspection following the redesign (South View).

Why was this discovery important?

This case study exemplifies the critical value of proactive inspections in large-scale complex projects. Early identification and resolution of design clashes not only mitigate risks but also contribute to the efficient execution of the project. This data center project demonstrates how diligent inspection processes can save time, resources, and costs, ensuring successful project delivery within the defined parameters.

11 days saved. One inspection. Want to replicate this success on your next project?

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