In modern construction, precision, speed, and cost efficiency are crucial to the success of any steel structure project. Growing demand for shorter construction timelines has led many engineering firms and steel fabricators to outsource steel detailing services as a strategic solution.
Steel detailing is one of the most critical aspects that starts with creating highly accurate drawings and 3D models for the fabrication and erection of structural steel components. Any errors lead to costly delays, material waste, or structural compromise. Outsourcing is not simply about cutting costs; it’s about enhancing operational flexibility, improving delivery speed, and leveraging global best practices.
Benefits of Outsourcing Steel Detailing
Cost Savings
Steel detailing involves expenses such as salaries, benefits, training, software licenses, and equipment. Significant costs can be reduced by outsourcing to specialized firms like Simsona that can save on this operational cost.
Access to Specialized Skills and Expertise
Steel detailing requires a global talent pool that has skills in steel detailing, particularly in advanced software like Tekla Structures, SDS/2, and Revit. Outsourcing allows firms to avail themselves of expertise that may not be available locally, and the cost of recruiting them is high.
Faster Turnaround Times
Outsourcing companies have the advantage of a large team that can work on multiple shifts. Detailing processes become faster and shorten project timelines to ensure fabrication and erection can start promptly. It’s very helpful to meet tight construction schedules and avoid delays on-site.
Scalability and Flexibility
The outsourcing firm required flexibility to scale up or down based on project requirements. Modern projects involve complex design that sometimes demands more team members, and if the workload reduces, the team can easily adjust accordingly.
Reduced Overheads and Administrative Costs
Managing a full in-house team requires resources to handle HR functions, software licenses, workspace, and benefits administration. Outsourcing eliminates these overheads, as the external firm takes care of the staffing and infrastructure costs.
Improved Quality and Accuracy
Outsourcing firms like Simsona use advanced software tools and have a thorough understanding of building codes and standards. They maintain quality control, error detection, and rework management that often result in higher quality and accuracy.
Focus on Core Competencies
The primary focus of a construction or engineering firm is to focus on their core competencies. The outsourcing of steel detailing to a firm like Simsona saves a lot of time and cost. Steel detailing is a highly technical task, and it’s better for a firm to leave it in the hands of experts.
Risk Mitigation
Outsourcing steel detailing can help mitigate risks associated with design changes, errors, and delays. Since outsourcing companies are experts in the field, they have established systems to manage revisions and track changes efficiently, reducing the likelihood of conflicts between the design and the final product. Additionally, some outsourcing firms offer insurance or liability coverage, providing extra protection in case of errors.
Access to Advanced Technology
Outsourcing firms typically use cutting-edge technology and software tailored to the needs of steel detailing, such as 3D modeling, clash detection, and BIM integration. By outsourcing, companies benefit from the latest tools without having to invest heavily in training or purchasing software themselves.
Reduced Training and Recruitment Costs
Steel detailing is a technical task that requires the hiring and training of skilled steel detailers. It can be costly and time-consuming, especially on a tight deadline.
