The Future of Digital Systems in Architecture with Dave Moyes

In a recent interview with Computer Weekly, Dave Moyes, the information and digital systems partner at SimpsonHaugh Architects, shared his insights on the evolving role of IT in the architectural sector. With over 20 years of experience as an IT leader and 14 years at SimpsonHaugh, Moyes has been instrumental in driving digital transformation within the firm. His journey from IT manager to partner reflects the growing importance of technology in architecture, as well as the unique challenges and opportunities it presents.

Transforming Business Processes with Digital Innovation

Dave Moyes has been at the forefront of leveraging digital services to transform business processes at SimpsonHaugh. His role involves setting the strategic direction for technology and taking a hands-on approach to managing support, system upgrades, and information management. This dual responsibility ensures that the firm maximizes the value of its existing systems and data sources while staying ahead of technological advancements.

The Role of Technology in Modern Architecture

The architectural sector has seen a significant increase in its reliance on digital and data over the past decade. Moyes notes that the number of drawings produced for client packages has increased dramatically, along with the level of detail and sophistication. Tools such as Revit and Rhino have become essential, and Building Information Modelling (BIM) has introduced a new level of metadata as a key deliverable for clients.

Each client has different expectations regarding the quality and level of data, but every project now includes some form of data deliverable. The relationship between architectural practice and data deliverables is expected to tighten further with the rapid adoption of AI technologies. Moyes predicts that AI will significantly shake up the industry in the next two years, offering a much quicker transformation compared to the decade-long journey with BIM technologies.

Challenges and Opportunities in Digital Transformation

As the architectural sector continues to embrace digital services from multiple providers, data interoperability has emerged as a significant challenge. Moyes highlights the need for an open file format to address concerns arising from proprietary systems. Despite these challenges, SimpsonHaugh remains focused on creating robust foundations to navigate ongoing digital transformation effectively.

Investing in IT Infrastructure

SimpsonHaugh has made substantial investments in its IT infrastructure to support its digital transformation goals. The firm is upgrading its corporate network to a 25GB Ethernet backbone and has introduced higher resolution 2K and 4K screens for staff. Additionally, they have implemented Nutanix data storage to manage their virtual server environment.

Security is another critical focus area for SimpsonHaugh. Given the importance of client project confidentiality, the firm has invested heavily in strengthening its security posture. This approach ensures the delivery of world-leading building designs while adhering to strict non-disclosure agreements and managing client data and contracts meticulously.

Notable Projects and Technological Milestones

SimpsonHaugh’s portfolio includes award-winning projects such as Deansgate Square in Manchester, One Blackfriars in London, the Engineering Innovation Centre at the University of Central Lancashire, and Circus West Village (formerly Battersea Power Station Phase 1). Moyes is particularly proud of the technological advancements achieved in these projects, such as the use of computational Grasshopper scripts for design exchange in the Blackfriars development.

Implementing Virtual Desktop Infrastructure

One of Moyes’ key projects in recent years has been the implementation of Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) technology. The firm has invested £1.21m in technologies including Citrix Virtual Apps and Desktop, Citrix NetScaler, VMware vSphere Hypervisor, Dell Servers with vSAN storage, Nvidia vGPUs, and ControlUp’s DEX platform. This managed VDI approach, supported by specialist service provider Ebb3, allows staff to securely and effectively connect to the network from any location.

The VDI technology has significantly reduced IT downtime, leading to approximately £1.79m in saved earnings for 2023. It has also improved collaboration with third parties and optimized the firm’s infrastructure to manage project workflows efficiently. This technology supports better working practices, enabling staff to maintain a good work-life balance and ultimately delivering better designs for clients.

The Future of AI in Architecture

Moyes continues to push the digital transformation agenda at SimpsonHaugh, with a particular focus on AI technologies. The firm is exploring AI in three key areas: word AI, image AI, and generative AI. Word AI will help reduce time spent on tasks such as summarizing reports and preparing emails. Generative AI, already well-established in architecture, will be used for parametric design, leveraging tools like Autodesk Forma and Grasshopper.

Enhancing Design Proposals with Image AI

Image AI will play a crucial role in creating early-stage design proposals based on sketches and prompts. This technology can significantly enhance sales processes by allowing employees to generate project pitches quickly.

Given the sensitivity of client data, SimpsonHaugh is implementing internally hosted AI solutions. One of these solutions is ComfyUI, which is trained with their data to generate images. This approach ensures data security while leveraging the benefits of AI.

In conclusion, Dave Moyes’ leadership and vision have positioned SimpsonHaugh Architects at the cutting edge of digital transformation in the architectural sector. By investing in robust IT infrastructure, embracing AI technologies, and focusing on security, the firm is well-equipped to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the digital age.