Tero Pulkkinen, BIM Specialist

I have worked as a data model coordinator since 2010. My work consists of demanding large construction projects as well as smaller kindergarten and school projects.

I feel that the best possible benefit of data model coordination can be obtained when it is implemented by the architectural office that is responsible for the project. Data model coordination assists the main designer and the responsible construction designer. It helps the construction project stay on schedule and in the budget. When the plans are coordinated and the building is built virtually before the actual construction, the quality of construction improves and the project gets finished on time.

A data model can be a versatile tool and source of information for the parties involved in a construction project. At its best, the data model serves the parties as a digital twin throughout the entire life cycle of the project. Accurate and high-quality models serve as effective tools for planning and implementation. After the project is completed, they serve as supporting tools for the maintenance and management of the property.

The data model coordinator typically works in close cooperation with the main designer. ARCO has an unprecedentedly good situation, as we have no less than two data model coordinators that can serve in different projects.

In addition to me, architect Juha Laurila handles data model coordination at ARCO. Thus, the client does not have to go and buy the service from another company. You can get the service from us even if another entity is responsible for the architectural design of the project.

The data model coordinator can combine the models of the project parties into a composite model. With the help of the combined model, it is possible to detect problems already in the planning phase and thus prevent expensive delays in the implementation phase.

My special expertise is the coordination of plans based on a data model. I guide the entire design team to succeed in their work. I also try to fit the plan inspection into the project’s schedule in a timely manner. For example, by using the data model as a tool for planning it is possible to get the elements to the construction site in such a way that the hole reservations needed by TATE installations are correct at once. Matching plans is a different puzzle for every project.

The data model can also be used to schedule and plan future work phases. With the guidance of a data model coordinator, building technical solutions can be effectively coordinated and the implementation will be of high quality.

Data models are getting more and more common on the construction site. Contractors install construction parts with the help of measurement data obtained from data models. From January 1, 2025, the new construction law obliges designers to use modern design methods and to standardize practices.

Uniform practices and standardization of information contents help to ensure the quality of the plans. Machine-readable plans also help with automation using artificial intelligence. With the help of these reforms, many new possibilities open up to support planning.

At ARCO, we have invested in the implementation of these new practices. ARCO’s experts are able to help our partners with the challenges of the transition period.

I particularly enjoy large and challenging construction projects. For me such projects have been, for example, the three buildings’ block Lyyra in Helsinki, and the shopping center Tripla.

Hybrid projects like Tripla and Lyyra are inspiring because they offer new challenges to data model coordinators. Helping the entire design team and learning new things in the day-to-day work is one of the best things about this role.

Tero Pulkkinen
Senior Construction Architect, BIM Specialist