Data and the Built Environment

Ian Gordon is Leader in Data Advisory and Advanced Analytics at Arup. He has applied his extensive knowledge to a plethora of critical national infrastructure projects. His commitment to using data for societal benefit is evident in his role at Arup, where he aims to forge better outcomes for society through innovative data utilization. He has held data (and data-adjacent) leadership positions at a range of large client organizations. Highlights include stints as Head of Data Architecture and Engineering at National Highways, Project Director for System Integration on Thames Tideway, Interim Head of Performance at Network Rail, Southeast Route, and most recently Head of Data at the Houses of Parliament Restoration and Renewal Programme. He is also passionate about interoperability and Digital Twins where he has collaborated with the Centre for Digital Built Britain, the Infrastructure Client Group, Innovate UK, and the Digital Twin Hub. Ian holds a Bachelor of Science in Geography with Economics from the London School of Economics. Neil Thompson is a Fellow of the Institute of Engineering & Technology, Chartered Construction Manager via the Chartered Institute of Building, and Member of the Data Management Association. He currently serves as Director of Digital Integration & Delivery at AtkinsRéalis, bringing a unique perspective as a Chief Technology Officer in a complex defence portfolio and a member of a major joint venture senior leadership team. Previous roles include the Head of Construction Innovation Hub Programme for the Centre for Digital Built Britain (joint venture between Cambridge University and UK Government), Head of Digital Integrity and Head of Digital Research and Innovation at Balfour Beatty. He is also Chair of the Built Environment for the Institution of Engineering and Technology and Honorary Associate Professor at the Bartlett School of Sustainable Construction, University College London. His academic background has positionedhim as a leading voice in the industry, contributing significantly to industry reports and government policy formation on a global scale. He holds a Bachelor of Engineering degree with honours in Building Services Engineering, a Master of Science in Construction Economics and Management from the Bartlett, University College London and a Certification in Virtual Design & Construction, Stamford USA.

• Purpose and pedantry.- The challenge of the Built Environment.- Background reading.- Data and organisational culture.- Delivering data capability.- Radical technologies.- How to be a data person.