An online technical seminar on the captioned topic was jointly organised by the CV and EV Divisions on 29 July 2020. The seminar was delivered by three speakers: Ms Huky Li from Drainage Services Department, Mr Kevin Chan from the consultant Black and Veatch Hong Kong Ltd, and Ms Ping Ngan from the contractor Build King - Kum Shing Joint Venture.

First of all, Ms Li introduced the project initiation of implementing Construction 2.0 in Sha Tau Kok Sewage Treatment Works, and discussed the budgeting, contractual scope changes, the introduction of building information modelling and related technologies. Mr Chan presented the adoption of modular integrated construction in the upgrading works and how it could raise project productivity and shorten the construction time. Ms Ngan then presented the digital site management, site supervision and documentation to facilitate real-time information sharing and collaboration on the project. In addition, Ms Ngan also presented the trial and improvements in the use of smart safety helmets in enhancing the safety of the workers.

The presentations were followed by a short question-and-answer session on the ways to succeed in implementing innovations, adopting an open mind to changes and a proactive manner to keep improving pilot projects. The seminar ended with the expectation of applying technology in a more extensive manner with the success of this pilot project.

The captioned seminar was organised by the CV Division and held online in the evening on 19 August 2020. Mr Yannick Lenormand, Arup’s East Asia Foresight leader, was the main speaker who shared his perspective on the future of workplaces around the region.

Mr Lenormand started with a brief introduction to the current situation of the commercial property market under the impact of COVID-19. He suggested that the COVID-19 situation has undeniably accelerated a range of pre-existing trends around health and well-being, activity-based working, flexibility and the drive for the better utilisation of offices.

Sustainability, smart buildings and digital workplaces are also reshaping the commercial offer. Taken together, these trends and developments will profoundly impact the kinds of workplaces likely to be needed in a post-pandemic world. COVID-19 has already pushed millions to work from home and many of them will likely go back to a very different office.

Mr Lenormand presented the opportunity for a shift in working cultures. He said that many employers have come to realise that it is possible to have staff working successfully from home to get the job done as planned once trust has been established.

Since some of the workforce will now permanently work from home, employers might decide to downsize their office premises or look for flexible office space rather than long-term leases. The COVID-19 situation is not only redefining what an office is, but also its fundamental purpose.

Mr Lenormand concluded the seminar by leading the audience to explore the sense of place, building communities and the shift in work cultures of the post-pandemic future.