WZMH Architects launches AEC software company Giraffe

Key Takeaways:

• WZMH Architects has launched Giraffe, an independently owned software company aimed at revolutionizing the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) sectors.
• Giraffe’s software suite includes eight smart technology solutions, such as digital construction measurement, autonomous site navigation, AI-driven planning, and environmental analysis tools.
• The software has already secured pilot tests and collaborations with industry leaders like Infrastructure Ontario and Microsoft.

The Whole Story:

WZMH Architects has launchd Giraffe, an independently owned software company dedicated to revolutionizing the architectural-engineering-construction sectors. The firm noted that Although Giraffe draws on WZMH’s extensive industry expertise, it operates as a separate entity with its own state-of-the-art software suite designed to enhance efficiency, sustainability, and collaboration in building design and construction.

The firm has made a effort in recent years to push the construction innovation forward. In 2017, the WZMH established sparkbird, a research and development lab dedicated to driving innovation in IoT (Internet of Things), design efficiency, modularity, and sustainability. Giraffe represents the latest evolution of this commitment, integrating practical architectural and construction knowledge with advanced AI and digital twin technology.

“At WZMH Architects, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in AEC (Architecture, Engineering, and Construction), and bridging the gap between traditional architectural and building practices, and the innovative potential of emerging technologies,” said the founding team at Giraffe.

They added, “Giraffe isn’t just about envisioning the future; we’re building it with solutions born from deep industry understanding and not just IT expertise. With the DNA of Giraffe rooted in WZMH Architects, we bring over 60 years of experience, more than 250 million square feet of designed and constructed buildings, and over 10 million hours of IP production and expertise. Our team of experts transforms visionary ideas into tangible outcomes for the architecture, engineering, and construction industry.”

The team stated that Giraffe addresses key issues in the AEC industry, such as fragmented and inefficient design processes, inconsistent standards and documentation, a declining skilled workforce, and limited automation. They believe that by streamlining the entire lifecycle of a building — from design and construction to management — Giraffe’s software solutions are designed to accelerate project timelines, automate tasks, and improve quality assurance.

The software suite features eight smart technology solutions and includes:

• doton – A digital construction measurement and inventory tracking solution utilizing standard camera technology and unique markers to enhance measurement accuracy, locate and determine the final placement of materials and construction site safety.
• ska-ana – A cutting-edge tool for autonomous site navigation, real-time data collection, and remote construction monitoring, reducing operational time and increasing efficiency.
• AiM (Ai Massing) – An AI-driven planning tool for rapid generation and adjustment of real estate development massing models, integrating creative vision with technical specifications.
• PARRiT – A centralized platform for managing design and furniture information, facilitating real-time updates and collaboration across project stakeholders.
• SOVAi – A site surveying tool that leverages advanced environmental analysis to provide rapid, comprehensive BIM models and reports, enhancing project planning efficiency.
• PLAiNNED – An AI-powered app that simplifies architectural design by quickly generating building code-compliant layouts for complex building components, epitomizing efficient ‘design by spreadsheet’.
• mySUN – An eco-conscious gaming app that tracks and suggests improvements to users’ environmental footprint, encouraging sustainable daily choices through automated activity.
• VOLPAi – An AI-powered application that redefines RFI management in the construction industry by expediting responses to improve project flow and serving as an educational resource on design and construction practices.

With ongoing beta testing and plans for commercialization by 2025, the team behind Giraffe believes their solution is poised to become a transformative force in the AEC industry.

They noted that it has already achieved significant milestones, including pilot tests and collaborations with industry leaders such as Infrastructure Ontario, RBC, Microsoft Cloud Infrastructure and Operations and major general contractors and subcontractors.