EXPERTS have been lauded nationally as outstanding after pioneering a technique that is transforming the construction industry.

Niven Architects have won the top ranking from the KTP Grading Panel, an awards body of the Government-funded Technology Strategy Board.

The accolade is the culmination of two years’ work with Teesside University and major software investment by the North-East practice as part of a knowledge transfer partnership.

Director Simon Crowe said: “The KTP partnership helped us exchange information that allowed us to put theory into practice. We were able to test the technology in real life environments.

“The result is that our practice can bid for much bigger schemes. The award is a ringing endorsement of our hard work and commitment to BIM.”

Darlington-based Niven Architects have been at the forefront of Building Information Management on the back of which they recently launched a new company, BIM Strategy Ltd.

The system uses digital technology in the construction process and management of buildings.

It is proving crucial to the construction industry because it brings together a host of professionals and tradesmen who then work from a single design model.

Computer software provides a single set of three-dimensional plans for building projects of all sizes.

The technology is redefining the construction industry globally and in the UK is being mandated by the government, which is aiming to make it an industry standard by 2016 for publicly procured work.

For more information bimstrategyltd.co.uk or call Marc Warren, technical manager for BIM Strategy, on 01325-461175.