Over the past 10 years the industry has been continually changing at a speed greater than has ever been seen before. This panel will provide an overview on what the main drivers promoting digitalisation development have been; as well as the trajectory for what future development is likely to look like. It will consider the impact of the BIM Mandate particularly in terms of micro enterprises and contracting authorities; and how the necessary changes are going to be supported, planned for, and incorporated. Panellists will also describe what they see as the greatest risks in creating a digital savvy construction industry across the board.

Topics will include:

• BIM requirements on the Capital Works Management Framework
• Empowering SMEs and micro enterprises to overcome the challenges of becoming digitally enabled
• Challenges faced by Contracting Authorities in implementing the BIM mandate
• Supports for industry
• International Cost Management System and ARM 5

Across Europe, the adoption of BIM is accelerating — yet fragmented practices, varied interpretations of standards, and inconsistent information requirements continue to slow progress. For clients, suppliers, and facility managers alike, this lack of harmonization results in unpredictable outcomes, higher costs, and missed opportunities to fully leverage digital collaboration.

The openBIM Harmony initiative addresses this challenge head-on. Developed within the European openBIM Forum, it provides a consistent framework of guidelines, predefined information requirements, and templates based on internationally recognized standards such as EN ISO 19650 and CEN/TR 17654. The goal is to help all stakeholders — from strategic decision-makers to on-the-ground project teams — work from a shared understanding, improving predictability, interoperability, and efficiency in both projects and asset management.

This keynote will outline why harmonization is not just a technical necessity but a strategic business imperative. It will explain how openBIM Harmony can create a common culture for BIM collaboration — making it easier for SMEs to participate, clients to specify their needs, and the entire supply chain to deliver better outcomes

Are Ireland’s Building Regulations and associated standards developed to an exceptionally high level or are they simply aligned with European requirements? This panel will provide insights into how standards and regulations have been developed. As discussions continue to take place across Europe on the need for harmonisation of standards to promote the widespread adoption of MMC, this panel will focus on the Irish perspective.

• Construct Innovate’s Standardize Project
• NSAI Agrément Certification
• The Irish Building Regulations
• The quality of the Ireland’s future building stock
• The impact of regulations and standards on construction and lifecycle costs

The construction industry is on the brink of a technological revolution, driven by advancements such as AI, robotics, digital twins, and sustainable materials. However, adopting these futuristic technologies brings challenges including integration with legacy systems, high up-front costs, regulatory uncertainties, and workforce adaptation. In this panel, we will discuss what is on the horizon for the digital construction in Ireland and what to expect.

• Seamlessly incorporating AI, IoT, and robotics into existing workflows without disrupting ongoing projects
• Strategies for managing the high initial investment in cutting-edge technologies while demonstrating long- term ROI
• Regulatory and standards alignment
• Preparing the construction workforce for new technology through education, training, and change management

As the construction industry in Ireland advances and adopts digital tools – ranging from BIM and IoT devices to cloud- based project management systems – cybersecurity threats have emerged as a significant but often underestimated risk! We will explore how tackling hidden risks is crucial to safeguarding confidential information, preserving stakeholder confidence, and sustaining the integrity of digital construction processes and how you can be cyber resilient.

• Understanding the unique cybersecurity risks in construction’s digital ecosystem (e.g. ransomware attacks, phishing, supply chain vulnerabilities).
• Best practices for safeguarding project data and proprietary designs in cloud environments.
• Integrating cybersecurity protocols into digital construction standards and training programs.
• Collaboration between construction firms, technology providers, and regulators to establish clear security guidelines.
• Building a cybersecurity culture among workers and stakeholders to reduce human error vulnerabilities.

Discover practical strategies for guiding project teams through resistance and uncertainty during AI-powered transformation. Learn how to break down barriers, address misconceptions, and build trusted AI that delivers measurable value- creating lasting buy-in and keeping teams engaged and aligned throughout every stage of change. Drawing on real-world AI case studies, we’ll explore practical steps for integrating AI across different stages of a project, ensuring value assurance and long-term impact.

Thematic roundtables are interactive discussions in small working groups. Moderated by seasoned industry experts and practitioners, they will address a compelling digital construction trend, issue, challenge, demonstration or an inspiring case study. This is your chance to join insightful discussions and workshops to align, share experiences and get new and actionable ideas from peers and experts.

Artificial Intelligence is reshaping industries worldwide, and construction is no exception. However, opinions vary – some see AI as a game-changer, while others remain sceptical or unsure how it fits their projects. We will discuss AI’s real benefits, limitations, and how to start embracing it without fear or guesswork.

• Practical AI tools already transforming construction workflows.
• Understanding and managing risk 
• Addressing common misconceptions and fears around AI adoption.
• How AI can improve safety, reduce waste, and optimise scheduling.
• Steps for integrating AI at different stages of a project.

Adopting new digital tools in construction isn’t just a technical upgrade… it’s a cultural shift that requires bringing everyone along, regardless of their background or experience. With team members at varying levels of education and comfort with technology, resistance to change is natural. Explore how clear communication, tailored training, and hands-on support can break down barriers, build confidence, and empower every worker to embrace the future of construction.

• Designing training that connects with diverse learning styles and experience levels.
• Using straightforward, relatable communication to engage and inspire teams.
• Leveraging peer mentoring and practical on-site learning to boost adoption. 

Digitisation is costly both in terms of purchasing and implementing IT systems; in addition to management and staff time spent on upskilling. Considering that SME’s are more often than not time poor with limited resources; what practical resources and information should be put in place to assist them? This roundtable will provide an opportunity to brainstorm potential avenues for further exploration.

How futuristic technology will transform the construction industry. From robotic systems, 3D printers, and other emerging hardware, we will explore real-world applications, regulatory updates, and what contractors and project managers need to know to stay ahead of the curve.

Construct Innovate’s Standarize Project has been established in response to the industry’s need for open-source MMC standardised construction performance details to enable the more widespread adoption of offsite manufacturing processes. By standardising the design and testing of details that achieve the performance requirements of the Building Regulations it will allow mainstream development as is the case with traditional construction. The Project is in its early stages and has held one workshop to date with various stakeholders. This is the second workshop and is by invite only.

As we bring the day to a close, facilitators from each round table will share key insights, takeaways, and actionable ideas that emerged from their discussions. To wrap things up, our conference moderator will deliver a final address, reflecting on the themes of the event and key takeaways