The VDC Scorecard: Formulation and Validation

As of 2009 over 80% of Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) companies in the US have adopted virtual design and construction (VDC) applications and processes (Barista, 2009). However, the development of methodologies to assess the maturity and performance of VDC implementation is lagging compared with other innovations in the construction industry, such as green building assessment frameworks.
Researches at Stanford University’s Center for Integrated Facility Engineering (CIFE) have drawn from existing research and observations of professional practice to formulate the VDC Scorecard, which employs a standardized and comprehensive set of measures and vocabulary to evaluate and inform project planning, adoption, technology and performance of VDC applications and processes. The VDC Scorecard aims to: 1) holistically assess VDC technologies as well as the teams and processes involved in using them, 2) provide results that are quantifiable and objective, 3) be of practical use to researchers and AEC professionals, and 4) be adaptable to diverse projects and evolving industry norms.
As of spring 2013, CIFE researchers have used the VDC Scorecard to evaluate 108 projects that vary in location, facility type, delivery method, and project phase. The resulting data was used to identify industry performance patterns and benchmarks, and validate and refine the VDC Scorecard.

Acknowledgements: The writers would like to thank acknowledge the contribution of the following individuals as former CIFE researchers: Min Song, Julian Gonsalves, Catherine Aglibert, Ella Sung, Justin Oldfield, Richard Tsai, Anthony Zara, Rith Yoeun, Michelle Kim, Ali Ghaemmaghami and Linda Brown. The writers would also like to acknowledge the input of the students who enrolled in CEE 212 and CEE 259 at the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering of Stanford University in 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2012.