Digital engineering is the art of creating, capturing and integrating data using a digital skillset
From drawings to simulations and 3D models, engineers are increasingly using advanced technologies to capture data and craft design in a digitized environment. Through progressive applications, the art of digital engineering enables designers to explore possibilities and develop innovative solutions in a virtual environment.
Essential tips for digital engineers
- Keep up with the digital evolution
Digital engineers must keep up with the digital trends and make it a habit to explore and learn about them. With unabated development in digital solutions underway, they should aim to be up to date with the new technologies, and learn how to spot opportunities that can help in improving the design, construction and operations process. - Learn how to code
Coding and scripting is a great skill to nurture. While IT professionals may be better at coding, engineers can provide a better understanding on how to apply it for design. As the barriers of non-interoperable design applications are fast being eroded through application programming interfaces (API), digital engineers should step up and take advantage of its benefits. - Soft skills still matter
Digitisation is not all about maths or science. It is important to acknowledge that soft skills are important too. Since clients may not always understand the technical aspects of building information modelling or simulations, digital engineers must bridge that gap through effective communication and collaboration – they must tell the story of digital engineering. - Diverse backgrounds and skills are important
To create holistic and effective designs, digital teams composed of members with diverse backgrounds may be the key to make sense and maximise the potential of the digital revolution. The aim must be to get different kinds of expertise and specialisation into a team, as this will be most valuable in developing progressive design solutions for users.