News.

AI in construction is shifting from generic productivity to embedded workflows. Firms using AI in delivery now gain speed, consistency, and certainty.

As construction standards evolve, clarity in compliance is becoming a competitive advantage. Firms that interpret and apply standards correctly move faster and reduce risk.

The Brisbane 2032 Olympics is reshaping the construction industry by compressing timelines, intensifying compliance, and redefining how interiors and specialist contractors deliver certainty in a deadline-driven market.

KEY TOPICS COVERED:

Standards in Flux: The tricky situation with the wind actions standard AS/NZS 1170.2, where the cited 2011 version is superseded but the 2021 version isn't yet cited.

Incremental Engineering Improvements:

ER95: A new code of practice for the seismic performance of non-structural elements and its practical take on C1/C2 anchor requirements.

Low Damage Seismic Design: How new guidelines will factor repairability and cost into designs, likely creating demand for new interior construction methods.

TS 1170.5: The new technical specification updating seismic loads based on the revised National Seismic Hazard Map.

Politically Driven Changes:

Earthquake Prone Buildings (EPB) Act: The significant rollback and what it means for the vast majority of buildings on the EPB list.

Overseas Building Products: A deep dive into the three-part amendment, including deemed-to-comply pathways for certified overseas products.

Building Minor Variations: A crucial change from "like-for-like product" to "like-for-like performance," and its impact on product substitutions and PS1 requirements.

BCA Liability: The shift from 'joint and severable' to 'proportionate liability' for councils and what it could mean for insurance and risk.

The New BCA Landscape: How private BCAs and nationwide tendering for consent work are making councils more competitive and commercially focused.

Whether you're an architect, engineer, contractor, or supplier, this presentation will help you stay ahead of the curve, identify opportunities, and mitigate risks in a rapidly evolving industry.

Mastering AI-assisted development unlocks the potential to rapidly create complex tools, like a custom SketchUp extension, while redefining the boundaries of software development for technical professionals.

Two key documents, the AWCI Code of Practice for Suspended Ceilings and the BIP Code of Practice for the Seismic Performance of Non-Structural Elements, have set a new benchmark for seismic resilience in building design. The AWCI CoP focuses on practical, updated guidance for suspended ceilings, integrating innovations like hybrid "fixed and floating" systems and expanded suspension options, while the BIP NSE CoP takes a holistic approach, addressing all non-structural elements and introducing concepts like Damage Control Limit State (DCLS). Together, these codes provide the clarity and tools needed to enhance safety, reduce costs, and build a more resilient industry.

The engineering details for interiors tends to be short, fast and with the potential for many clashes, resulting in a different BIM approach.

From the return to the office post-COVID to the impacts of governmental shifts on the industry, Irina provides candid perspectives on navigating challenges and seizing opportunities.

Essentially, every decision made is crucial to our success, and yet we want our people to make these decisions autonomously. We enable our team to do this with confidence because behind each of these decisions sit our three Brevity values.

Starting in August last year, Brevity was one of 20 companies from New Zealand and Australia to take part in the Four Day Work Week pilot (4DWW). In the initial trial we were experiencing high demand for our work. However, in a recession, where you can’t rely on 100% capacity, this is less of an accurate measure. 

Brevity excels in interiors engineering and seismic design, guiding construction professionals through complex regulations with a proven four-step process. Our tailored solutions, quick responses, and ongoing support ensure your project's success. Experience precision, efficiency, and superior service with Brevity, your trusted partner in seismic design.

Robotics are changing the landscape; providing opportunities to improve productivity, safety, and quality in interior construction.

Our industry leading Brevity Best Price Guarantee is only possible due to considerable behind the scenes productivity improvements over the last 3 years. We discuss the core changes we’ve made to the company to increase productivity.

Brevity, a New Zealand-based Engineering consultancy, has successfully implemented a four-day work week (4DWW) by prioritising productivity and innovation. The firm, which joined a global 4DWW pilot, rewards employees with a gift day every week when team and individual productivity goals are met. The consultancy adopted agile project management systems, value-based pricing, digital transformation and diversity to optimise its processes and remain productive.

Just over eight weeks ago, BVT began their 4 Day Week pilot. As the team discussed how they would increase their productivity, they also chatted about what they’d do with their non-work days. The idea of having a day out of the office during the week was new and tantalising - the options for how they could spend it were many!