In Russia, a 'digital twin' of a construction site was created to speed up building construction

A New Era of Predictive, Data‑Driven Construction

Specialists at Novgorod State University have introduced a methodology capable of radically accelerating and optimizing the construction of multi‑story residential buildings. The core of the innovation lies in merging a highly detailed digital model of the future building with an hourly timeline of construction tasks. This synchronization makes it possible to visualize each stage of the project in real time and prevent costly delays.

Traditional spreadsheet‑based planning often fails in dense urban environments: material piles clog pathways, equipment movements collide, and schedules drift unpredictably. The Russian system eliminates these issues by creating a unified digital environment for supervising the entire project, according to TASS.

Real‑Time Progress Tracking and Automatic Delay Detection

First, engineers generate an ultra‑accurate 3D model that includes all building elements and materials. In parallel, an hour‑by‑hour schedule is created. The key innovation comes next: every task is linked directly to the corresponding model elements. As construction progresses, the system displays real‑time updates and highlights delays automatically, changing the color of affected zones within the digital twin.

A major advantage of the platform is its intelligent logistics engine. It can precisely calculate which materials are required each day — and in what quantity. Deliveries can then be scheduled exactly when needed, eliminating clutter on the site. This frees up valuable working space and reduces the risk of theft or spoilage.

The digital twin becomes a single coordination center for all contractors, ensuring transparency and predictability. When several buildings are being constructed at once, the benefits multiply. The economic effect begins at the design stage: using digital models can reduce planning time and cost by up to 30 percent, and the new methodology extends that efficiency straight to the construction site.

From Manual Oversight to Continuous Digital Control

The university’s development pushes construction management into a new technological phase — faster, cheaper, cleaner, and more controlled.

Earlier, we reported that the VIZ‑Steel metallurgical plant in Yekaterinburg launched a unique digital monitoring system for buildings and structures. The platform provides around‑the‑clock oversight of facilities totaling more than 7 million cubic meters, transitioning from periodic inspections to continuous automated supervision. Meanwhile, in Moscow, construction sites already use sensors that track noise levels, dust, and air quality in real time, supporting environmental safety and operational transparency.