At DRIAS Rådgivende Ingeniører, manual workflows and time-consuming calculations have been replaced with Real-Time LCA. The result is a digital workflow where LCA calculations have become an integrated part of the projects – from the initial design phases to ongoing sparring with external partners.
Before the transition to Real-Time LCA, LCA calculations at DRIAS were handled manually – with many links between model, data and documentation. This meant that each calculation took a long time and required repeated measurements, conversions and manual entry. This way of working made it difficult to scale the work and took the focus away from what creates real value for the projects: qualified and sustainable choices.
"There were many steps where something could go wrong. And it took time away from what we wanted to focus on – namely finding good and sustainable solutions," says Kristine Toft, Sustainability Manager at DRIAS.
The need for a more streamlined, digital approach became clear as climate requirements became stricter and demand for LCA documentation increased.
With the implementation of Real-Time LCA, DRIAS was able to consolidate all sustainability work into one platform. The solution is directly connected to Revit, making it easy to transfer quantities, create analyses and prepare documentation – without having to work in several separate systems. This creates a common digital starting point for, for example, designers, sustainability specialists and project managers.
The platform is easy to use and does not require heavy training. Today, virtually the entire organization uses Real-Time LCA – not just the sustainability specialists.
Along the way, DRIAS had a close sparring with Real-Time LCA and direct support was always within reach, with ongoing dialogue about needs and wishes, and the solution being adjusted as experience grew.
One of the most tangible benefits of working with Real-Time LCA is the time savings. DRIAS has built a library of construction types and materials, enabling data reuse and automating large parts of the process.
"If we use known elements and name them the same, the system can recognize them and suggest materials. Then we can quickly get to the bottom of the analysis and only adjust what is project-specific," explains Kristine.
At the same time, calculations can now be carried out much earlier in the project. Where LCA was once reserved for later phases, DRIAS uses the tool from the start to analyze and compare solutions. This makes it possible to adjust materials, test alternatives, and ensure projects are aligned with ambitious climate goals or certification requirements – right from the beginning.
By bringing all data and analysis together in one place, DRIAS has significantly reduced the risk of errors and data inconsistencies. Everyone works from the same foundation, and the platform supports different user roles, so that project managers, designers and sustainability specialists can access exactly what they need – without being dependent on individuals.
"It is a great advantage that developers and external partners can follow along directly in the platform. It is all very intuitive to work in, and it results in fewer misunderstandings and better flow in the collaboration," concludes Kristine.