3D models have long supported design validation, clash detection, and visualization, but their true potential extends far beyond design. With the rise of Advanced Work Packaging (AWP) and intelligent construction planning tools like ONBuild from O3 Solutions, data-rich 3D models are now a cornerstone of efficient, coordinated project delivery.
This guide explores how O3 enables construction teams to transform 3D model data into actionable intelligence, driving clearer communication, faster decision-making, and consistent results in the field.
Traditional methods rely heavily on 2D drawings, spreadsheets, and disconnected systems. As projects grow in size and complexity, these tools fall short:
In contrast, O3's ONBuild provides a connected 3D model environment that centralizes scope, materials, sequencing, and progress into one visual, data-driven source of truth.
When integrated with O3’s ONBuild platform, 3D model data unlocks significant advantages across every stage of construction planning and execution.
Instead of interpreting 2D drawings, users can explore work areas directly in the model, inspecting components, construction sequences, and metadata (examples include quantities, types, and status) in a clear visual context.
ONBuild intelligently extracts and filters 3D model data from various disciplines, including piping, steel, equipment, electrical, instrumentation, and concrete, allowing users to build construction components tailored to fabrication, erection, or installation. Model maturity and metadata drive the right level of detail.
With ONBuild, there's no need to export model data to Excel or work outside the O3 environment. The platform features a powerful rule-based engine that analyzes model updates and automatically creates construction components, ensuring seamless and immediate integration as soon as new data is received.
Model objects are directly connected to related drawings, fabrication data, Bill of Materials (BoM), schedules, and other documents, giving planners and field teams instant access to all the information they need to make informed decisions and take action without delays.
Through model colorization and visual filters, stakeholders can instantly assess:
This advanced visual reporting makes progress tracking intuitive, improving accountability and transparency across teams.
O3 provides a range of predefined model visualization options, and also allows users to create custom colorizations tailored to their project needs.
When creating IWPs or CWPs, planners can automatically include annotated screenshots or model views as part of the documentation. These visual cues reduce ambiguity and improve crew understanding in the field.
Not all 3D models are created equal, and most weren’t designed with construction in mind. ONBuild bridges this gap through:
ONBuild by O3 Solutions is more than a model viewer. it's a purpose-built AWP platform designed to create intelligent construction components from model data, fabrication data, non-graphical data and external systems.
Whether or not a 3D model is available, ONBuild allows teams to:
Effective AWP implementation starts long before the first package is created. O3 works closely with clients to define upfront data standards - including what must be included in models, how tags are applied, and how disciplines coordinate.
This proactive data planning ensures the 3D model becomes a reliable foundation for scope definition, sequencing, and performance tracking.
O3 is the industry leader in AWP solutions, battle-tested on more than 500 projects with over 20,000 users. Our modern, cloud-based platform empowers teams to plan, track, and execute work with unmatched clarity and confidence.
Schedule your personalized demo today to discover how ONBuild transforms your 3D model into a powerful engine for work packaging success.