About CIDELAB
The Construction Informatics and Digital Enterprise Lab (CIDEL) is an applied research hub focused on the investigation, design, development, deployment and use of digital technologies to address challenges in the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry and the wider built environment.
Our work explores how digital tools such as digital twins, Building Information Modelling, big data analytics, the Internet of Things (IoT) and machine learning can enhance productivity, improve sustainability and increase efficiency across the project lifecycle.
Research focus
We develop and test practical digital solutions in real project and organisational contexts.
- Building Information Modelling (BIM) & digital twin: data-driven design, construction and asset management; integration of models with real-time information sources.
- Sustainable and healthy built environments: waste management, building performance, indoor environmental quality and air quality management.
- Modern Methods of Construction (MMC): offsite construction, process optimisation and industrialised approaches to project delivery.
- Smart procurement and risk management: innovative contracting strategies, supply-chain analytics and digital decision support tools.
- Smart city planning and information management: data infrastructures, interoperability and information governance for the city scale.
Beyond the AEC sector, we also apply digital technologies to address challenges in other domains, including education and agriculture.
Impact and applications
CIDELAB has contributed to solutions that automate time-consuming and repetitive tasks, diagnose non-conformances, support air-quality management, and improve the cost-effectiveness and sustainability of construction projects.
Our research is carried out in collaboration with industry partners, public sector organisations and other academic groups, ensuring that outcomes are both scientifically robust and practically applicable.