What is VDC? Understanding Virtual Design in Construction

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As the construction industry is embracing digital transformation, traditional methods of managing projects and data are no longer good enough. Modern construction projects have high standards of efficiency, accuracy and fast collaboration. That’s where VDC comes into play. If you’ve been wondering what is VDC, you’re not alone. As projects grow more complex, construction firms around the world are turning to VDC to bridge the gap between design and execution.

In this blog, we explore what VDC is, its key components, and how it’s reshaping the future of
construction — while taking a look at the role of virtual design in construction software.

What is VDC?

VDC stands for Virtual Design in Construction. It is a process that uses digital models to plan, coordinate, and manage construction projects from start to finish. Unlike traditional methods where design and construction happen separately, VDC integrates every stakeholder — architects, engineers, contractors, and owners — into a single, collaborative workflow.

At its core, VDC leverages VDC software to simulate the entire construction process before a single shovel hits the ground. These solutions allow teams to identify potential issues, optimize schedules, and
ensure that all components fit together seamlessly.

It’s important to note that VDC is not just about 3D modeling; it’s a comprehensive strategy combining technology, people, and processes to deliver better project outcomes.

VDC vs. BIM: What’s the difference?

Many people confuse VDC and BIM (Building Information Modeling). While they are related, they’re not the same thing.

  • BIM is a digital tool — it’s the 3D model itself, containing rich data about a structure.
  • VDC is a process — it involves using BIM, but also includes workflows, project management strategies, and collaboration protocols.

In short: BIM is what you use, and VDC is how you use it to achieve project goals.

Understanding this distinction is crucial when exploring virtual design in construction software, as the best solutions offer both robust BIM capabilities and tools for broader VDC processes.

Core components of VDC

 

Understanding what is VDC means breaking down its main components:

1. 3D modeling and visualization

VDC relies heavily on 3D models to create detailed representations of the building or infrastructure. These models go beyond basic drawings to include real-world data like materials, costs, and schedules.

 

2. Collaboration and coordination

One of VDC’s biggest advantages is improved teamwork. With VDC software, project teams can collaborate in real-time, identifying and resolving clashes or design issues early in the process.

 

3. Process and workflow optimization

Virtual Design in Construction isn’t just about creating visuals — it’s about rethinking how construction projects are managed. Teams use data-driven workflows to optimize every phase, from design through to facility management.

 

4. Project Simulation and Analysis

Advanced simulations allow teams to forecast how different decisions will impact the project timeline, budget, and quality. This proactive approach saves time and money while improving final results.

VDC software across the construction project lifecycle

VDC software supports every phase of the project lifecycle—from initial design through construction and facility management—by integrating 3D models, schedules, and cost data into a single collaborative platform. Below is a breakdown of how VDC software enhances each stage of a construction project.

1. Planning & Design

  • Use Building Information Modeling (BIM) to create detailed 3D models of the project.
  • Collaborate with stakeholders to refine designs and ensure alignment with project goals.
  • Perform clash detection to identify and resolve conflicts before construction begins.

2. Scheduling & Cost Estimation

  • Integrate 4D (time) and 5D (cost) data into the BIM model to develop accurate project schedules and budgets.
  • Simulate construction sequences to optimize workflows and resource allocation.
  • Adjust plans dynamically in response to changes, minimizing delays and cost overruns.

3. Construction Execution

  • Deploy coordinated models to guide on-site construction activities.
  • Use VDC tools for real-time progress tracking and quality control.
  • Facilitate communication among teams to address issues promptly and maintain project momentum.

4. Operations & Maintenance

  • Transition the as-built BIM model to facility management teams for ongoing operations.
  • Leverage the model for maintenance planning, renovations, and future expansions.
  • Ensure that the digital twin reflects the current state of the facility for accurate decision-making.

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Benefits of VDC

There’s a reason so many firms are investing in virtual design in construction software and VDC processes. Here are some major benefits:

Improved design accuracy

VDC allows teams to work from a unified, highly detailed digital model, significantly reducing errors and inconsistencies. By identifying issues like clashes between structural and mechanical systems early in the design phase, teams avoid costly revisions later. This leads to more accurate builds that reflect the original design intent.

Enhanced communication and collaboration

VDC fosters real-time collaboration by bringing all stakeholders into a shared digital environment. Teams using virtual design in construction software can work more efficiently, with immediate access to model updates and clearer visual communication, reducing delays and misunderstandings.

Early problem detection

Simulations and digital reviews make it possible to detect design, scheduling, or logistical problems early. Whether it’s identifying structural conflicts or site access issues, VDC allows teams to address risks before they escalate, leading to safer, more predictable project outcomes.

Supports sustainable building goals

VDC supports sustainable construction practices by enabling energy performance analysis, material efficiency, and environmentally conscious design decisions. These capabilities help teams align with green building standards and reduce the environmental impact of construction projects.

Better project outcomes

With more accurate planning, fewer surprises, and a smoother process, VDC leads to higher satisfaction among clients, contractors, and design teams. The visual clarity provided by models helps align expectations and ensures that everyone is working toward the same goals.

Using VDC in real-life scenarios

Thinkproject customers are already reaping the benefits of using VDC within their construction projects. Here are some of them:

DEGES

After adopting Thinkproject’s Virtual Design & Construction (VDC) solutions, DEGES experienced significant improvements in project efficiency and sustainability. The digital tools streamlined workflows, enabling flexible, location-independent collaboration, which led to faster task completion and reduced the need for travel—cutting regular travel time by up to 30% and saving approximately 275,000 km in commuting.

This shift not only enhanced productivity but also contributed to environmental benefits, including the conservation of 2,069 trees, 159 million liters of water, and a reduction of 70 tons of CO₂ emissions by avoiding the printing of 28 million sheets of paper.

Gruner

Gruner Roschi AG, a Swiss engineering firm specializing in HVAC systems, enhanced its planning efficiency and accuracy by implementing Thinkproject’s Virtual Design & Construction (VDC) Manager. This solution streamlined model validation, clash detection, and automated quantity takeoffs directly from BIM models, reducing manual effort and improving cost estimation.

The integration of Thinkproject’s tools, along with comprehensive BIM training, enabled Gruner to elevate project quality and sustainability, as demonstrated in the complex renovation of Bern’s Schönburg building.

A99 motorway bridge project

In the A99 motorway bridge upgrade project, Thinkproject’s Virtual Design & Construction Management (VDC) solution was implemented to pilot Building Information Modeling (BIM) across design, planning, and execution phases. This facilitated the creation of a centralized platform for all project stakeholders, enabling automatic information checks and ensuring that 2D drawings were derived directly from BIM models. The structured onboarding process improved clarity and efficiency, demonstrating Thinkproject’s flexibility and effectiveness in enhancing infrastructure project management.

The future of VDC

As technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace, the future of VDC looks bright. New technologies have the potential to expand on the capabilities of VDC software, making it vital for construction projects. Here are a few trends that will likely impact that:

  • Artificial Intelligence (AI): Predictive analytics to foresee project risks.
  • Augmented Reality (AR): On-site AR overlays to assist with installations.
  • Intelligent Digital Twins: Creating living models of buildings for ongoing facility management.
  • Cloud collaboration: More powerful, real-time cooperation through cloud-based VDC software.

Future construction professionals will need to be tech-savvy, collaborative, and open to continuous learning to thrive in a VDC-driven world.

Thinkproject Virtual Design and Construction Management

Through its Built Asset Lifecycle Platform, Thinkproject delivers a powerful Virtual Design and Construction Management solution that enhances project delivery by optimizing design collaboration and ensuring the integrity of digital models.

Its core capabilities focus on:

  • Coordinating multidisciplinary design efforts
  • Verifying model precision and compliance
  • Managing the quality of BIM data
  • Enabling advanced model visualization
  • Supporting collaborative issue tracking and resolution

The platform fosters seamless teamwork, boosts the reliability of construction models, and strengthens communication between all involved parties. It also includes advanced support for construction scheduling (4D) and cost forecasting (5D), making it a comprehensive tool for modern construction management. Learn more, by booking a personalized demo.

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