Innovation

Collen is an engineering-led contractor that continually evolves how projects are delivered, ensuring safe and efficient outcomes for clients.

Off Site Manufacturing (OSM)

At Collen, we are consistently reviewing how we deliver projects with a focus on safety, quality, and efficiency. We actively promote modularisation, prefabrication, and off site manufacturing (OSM) across our operations.

The OSM approach has been successfully applied to a wide range of building types including schools, hotels, office developments, residential buildings, life science projects, and data centres. Our teams have delivered complex solutions using bathroom pods, containerised electrical plantrooms, E-houses, MEP vertical and horizontal modules, modular façades, skid-mounted MEP plantrooms, prefabricated sprinkler systems, and modular wiring.

Benefits of OSM

  • Factory-based working enhances:

  • Planning and programme certainty

  • Accuracy in production

  • Quality control

  • Waste reduction

  • Safety management

  • On-site logistics

Digital Construction

Collen’s digital construction strategy is supported across the company and led by dedicated digital construction managers, leads, and coordinators. Their work integrates innovation, safety, sustainability, and quality through well-coordinated, clash-free project delivery.

The digital construction team plays a pivotal role in embedding the strategy into Collen’s operational functions. We have adopted innovative technologies and developed internal processes aimed at continuous improvement. These technologies include, but are not limited to:

  1. 4D planning

  2. Reality capture and point cloud scanning

  3. Field and data integration

  4. Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR)

4D Planning

Collen uses 4D construction simulations throughout all project stages—from bid to completion—using Synchro 4D. Our planning team has refined this process, with 4D leads focusing on enhancing quality, safety, productivity, and efficiency.

Our BIM models are now synchronised with construction schedules, allowing real-time feedback loops, hazard planning before site works commence, and improved stakeholder engagement via 4D models during progress reviews.

Reality Capture

Collen has made strategic investments in reality capture technology, deploying scanning assets across all regions of operation. These technologies are critical for verifying as-built conditions in complex environments such as data centres, airport baggage handling systems, and biopharmaceutical facilities.

Following the adoption of Leica scanners, we have expanded into using Trimble X7 and X9 systems, enhancing our capability and expertise. Collen continues to trial and integrate advanced capture solutions, including 360° walkthrough tools, which enable real-time monitoring and improve team collaboration.

We also utilise Evercam, a construction camera platform offering real-time monitoring and time-lapse recording.

Field and Data Integration

Collen employs leading Common Data Environment (CDE) platforms including Procore, Autodesk Construction Cloud, Viewpoint 4Projects, and Dalux. These tools provide site teams with immediate access to accurate, real-time project information via mobile devices.

We collaborate with data specialists to ensure the information within these platforms remains current and reliable. Power BI is used to extract insights, helping drive data-led decision-making and continuous project improvement.

By combining field technology with robust data analytics, Collen supports efficient workflows and transparent communication across all stakeholders.

Virtual and Augmented Reality

Collen has implemented virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) solutions, including the Hololens 2 headset. These technologies allow personnel to visualise and engage with virtual buildings before construction begins.

The Hololens 2 enables remote collaboration by allowing site personnel to present live project environments to distributed teams, with real-time interaction. This immersive experience supports informed decision-making and enhances design coordination.

These tools are part of Collen’s digital construction suite, reinforcing our commitment to innovation and smart project delivery.