Information Landscape
Ideal digital twins exist thanks to ontology, BIM and asset management systems, and the dictionaries and models managed within them (including enterprise architecture models); together with several other operational and business systems (see also our chapter on Our Vision).
In the diagram below, we show the dictionary and model-related systems needed in a fully-featured digital twin.
The advent of digital technology has brought about tremendous changes in the way businesses operate and assets are managed. In the world of asset management, the use of Building Information Modelling (BIM) and Information Management has become increasingly important. Together, these technologies have the potential to contribute significantly to the development and use of digital twins.
Asset management is the process of managing a company's physical assets. This can range from equipment to buildings and entire industrial plants. The goal of asset management is to ensure that assets are used efficiently and effectively and that they provide value to the company. Asset management can be complex, as assets are often spread out over a large geographic area and may require specialised knowledge and expertise to manage.
BIM is a process for creating and managing information across a construction project’s lifecycle. BIM involves creating a digital representation of a building or structure's physical and functional characteristics, which can be used by other stakeholders involved in the project. The digital representations of buildings and infrastructure can help reduce errors and improve efficiency in the construction process. In addition, BIM can also be used to manage and maintain buildings over their entire lifecycle, including during renovations and upgrades.
Information management is the process of collecting, storing, and managing data so it can be easily accessed and used. This technology is critical in asset management, as it allows companies to track the performance of their assets, monitor maintenance needs, and identify potential problems before they become major issues.
When combined, BIM and information management can contribute significantly to the development of digital twins. Digital twins can be used to simulate the behaviour of assets in a virtual environment, allowing engineers and technicians to identify potential problems before they occur in the real world. Digital twins can also be used to monitor the performance of assets over time, helping optimise maintenance and reduce downtime.
In conclusion, the use of asset management, BIM, and information management technologies can greatly contribute to the development and use of digital twins. These technologies allow companies to manage their assets, reduce errors in the construction process, and optimise maintenance and performance over the lifecycle of an asset more effectively. As digital technology continues to evolve, the use of digital twins will likely become increasingly common in a wide range of industries.