Dakshina Liyanapathirana

Technologist

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As a technologist at BIM Academy, Dakshina’s role involves data modelling, auditing, coordination and clash detection. Dakshina has an honours degree in quantity surveying from Liverpool John Moores University, as well as a BTEC HND in civil engineering. He currently is pursuing an MSc in construction project management at Northumbria University, with a specific focus on BIM studies.

How would you summarise your current role?

As a technologist, my main duties involve providing assistance to the team and ensuring that projects are delivered successfully. This includes creating models, conducting coordination checks, performing data auditing, and managing other information related tasks. 

What inspires you?

My parents put a lot of effort into supporting our family, and their commitment to their careers has given me a strong work ethic and drive to be successful. Watching my sister pursue her creative passions has also been incredibly inspiring, as she has shown me that it’s possible to turn your interests into a fulfilling career. Beyond their individual successes, my family has taught me the importance of compassion, kindness and tenacity. I appreciate their influence, constant support and encouragement, as it has given me the strength to follow my own aspirations.

What do you believe are the current challenges in our industry and how can we overcome them?

A lack of adopting new technologies is the one of biggest challenges we currently face in the construction industry. While technology has the potential to increase efficiency and productivity, many companies are hesitant to invest in new tools and processes due to the cost and the need for specialised training. Through adopting new technologies and investing in training programs, companies are able to overcome this challenge and benefit from improved project outcomes, reduced costs, and increased competitiveness. To remain relevant and successful in today’s rapidly changing market, companies must recognise the importance of innovation and prioritise the adoption of new technologies.

What’s going to be the next big thing for the digital built environment?

Real time data capturing is rapidly becoming the next big thing in the construction industry, and for good reason. Using sensors and other advanced technologies, construction companies can gain unprecedented insights into their operations, from material usage to equipment performance. As a result, they can make better decisions, optimise their workflows, and identify issues ahead of time. In addition to improving safety on construction sites, real-time data capture allows managers to take proactive measures to prevent accidents, providing them with information on potential hazards. Overall, the benefits of real time data capturing in construction are clear, and it’s likely that we’ll see more and more companies adopting these technologies in the years to come.