After more than a decade working with laser scanning and 3D data, we’ve come to believe that one of the most underused — and misunderstood — tools in construction is as-built analysis.

Often viewed as a post-project requirement or a final “sign-off” document, it’s easy to underestimate its real potential. But in the right hands, and applied at the right time, as-built analysis becomes a powerful driver of quality, cost-efficiency, and transparency across the entire construction lifecycle.

Beyond Finger-Pointing: Reframing Quality

In construction, there’s often hesitation when it comes to being “checked.” It’s human nature — nobody wants to be second-guessed, especially on fast-moving sites where plans can change by the hour.

But that’s the wrong mindset. As-built analysis isn’t about blame — it’s about building better.

Used correctly, it doesn’t slow teams down — it empowers them. It removes guesswork, confirms alignment between design and reality, and brings clarity to complex site conditions. Think of it as a quality assurance tool, not a compliance checkbox.

Timing Is Everything

Traditionally, as-built analysis has been seen as an end-of-project step. But in our experience, the real benefits are unlocked during construction.

By integrating scanning and model comparisons throughout the process, issues can be identified early — and fixed before they cascade into costly rework or schedule delays. It shifts the focus from reactive corrections to proactive quality management.

We’ve seen this approach streamline workflows, reduce material waste, and even speed up timelines by improving coordination between trades and stakeholders.

A Workflow That Works

A successful as-built analysis workflow is built on consistency, clarity, and the right tools. Here’s a simplified overview of how we typically approach it:

• Scan the site High-resolution laser scanning is performed on location to capture the exact state of construction at that point in time.
• Process and clean the point cloud The raw data is refined to focus on relevant structures and remove noise or irrelevant elements.
• Isolate compared elements Only the key construction components (e.g., walls, slabs, beams, HVAC paths) are extracted to streamline the comparison process.
• Import and align the model The as-designed BIM or CAD model (IFC, RVT, DWG, etc.) is aligned with the scanned data (in best case scenario, the scanning had been done in same coordinate system as the model)
• Analyze deviations Differences are calculated and visualized using heatmaps, cross-sections, or tabular data depending on the project’s needs.
• Share clear results The findings are presented in a way that is easily understandable — even for non-technical stakeholders — so that action can be taken quickly if needed.

For over a decade, we’ve relied on Leica Cyclone 3DR as our main platform for this. It’s powerful, efficient, and flexible enough to handle diverse file types and site conditions.

A Real Example: €20K per Floor Saved

One standout case was a multi-story office building, approximately 3,000 m² per floor, where self-compacting concrete (SCC) was used as a structural layer.

Before pouring, we scanned the floors and analyzed deviations in the base layer. With accurate volume data in hand, the concrete plan was adjusted to match actual conditions.

The result? According to the client, over €20,000 was saved per floor — not just in material, but also in avoided rework and improved finish quality. That’s the kind of impact 3D analysis can have when integrated at the right stage.

Breaking the Cost Misconception

A common barrier to wider adoption is the perceived cost. Many assume 3D analysis is expensive compared to 2D checks, especially when 2D is already a mandated part of the workflow.

But the value of 3D lies in completeness. Rather than sampling a few points on the ground, you get full coverage of entire surfaces, elements, or systems. You can verify the accuracy of the entire structure — not just what’s visible or marked on plans.

This leads to fewer assumptions, fewer surprises, and stronger outcomes — both technically and financially.

What Needs to Change

If construction wants to keep pace with digital evolution, it’s time we stop treating as-built analysis as an optional luxury.

It should be standard — not because it’s “nice to have,” but because quality matters. Because better data leads to better decisions. And because no one benefits from problems discovered too late.

Changing the mindset is the first step. Don’t see it as critique. See it as an opportunity to lead with precision and deliver with confidence.

Final Thoughts

As-built analysis has evolved. It’s not a niche service anymore — it’s part of the future of construction. The tools are mature. The workflows are proven. What’s needed is wider understanding and broader adoption.