To move towards efficient, sustainable, and intelligent building management, the digitalisation of built assets is essential. Only with reliable digital models can we accurately plan maintenance, energy retrofitting or heritage conservation interventions. Furthermore, open and shared access to this data can generate synergies and collective actions with a positive impact on society as a whole.
At Coloma Armengol, we are committed to driving this transformation. This is why we are participating in the OPTIM_DIGIACTIU project—an initiative that advocates for more efficient, affordable, and useful digitalisation of buildings, particularly those that still lack a digital representation. The proposal, developed in collaboration with the UPC (Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya) and the Spanish Office of Data, lays the foundations for a Construction Sector Data Space that facilitates open access to digital models and fosters a collaborative, data-driven economy focused on the common good.
However, making this vision a reality requires a fundamental preliminary step: the massive digitalisation of existing assets.
Digitalising to Transform: A Strategic Opportunity
In Catalonia, the vast majority of buildings—particularly those built before the 1980s—do not have any form of digital representation. This hinders efficient management, complicates renovation efforts and prevents progress towards advanced models such as digital twins and predictive management.
In this context, OPTIM_DIGIACTIU emerges as a structured and realistic response to enable the smart, cost-effective digitalisation of existing buildings across the region.
A Scalable Two-Phase Methodology
The project is grounded in a proprietary methodology structured in two key phases:
- Phase 1: Starting from the physical asset and the profile of its manager, we define the optimal digital asset, that is, the model with the essential features required to add real value in future management.
- Phase 2: Once this optimal model has been identified, we determine the most suitable technologies and methods to digitise it at the lowest possible cost, without compromising effectiveness.
This approach allows digitalisation to be tailored to different building types and user profiles, while also enabling large-scale implementation through informed, scalable planning.
Validating the Model with Real Case Studies
The methodology is being validated through real-world pilot projects across two strategic segments: offices/public facilities and historic buildings. These pilots will provide:
- Accurate data on digitalisation costs
- Simulations of management cost savings
- Exploration of monetisation models (e.g. via the metaverse) to create added value for digital assets
Building a Digital, Sustainable and Shared Future
OPTIM_DIGIACTIU is not simply a technological innovation project—it represents a firm commitment to a sustainable, scalable and collaborative vision for the future of the construction sector. The digital models produced will pave the way for the development of digital twins focused on energy efficiency, indoor environmental quality and alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Backed by the Government of Catalonia and ACCIÓ
This project is supported by the Government of Catalonia through ACCIÓ, as part of its funding programme for open and disruptive innovation projects. A bold initiative designed to digitally transform the construction sector from its foundations, with a clear focus on long-term impact.
At Coloma Armengol, we have years of experience in the efficient management of buildings and infrastructure. If you are interested in learning more about the project or exploring how we can support your organisation, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
