The construction industry is advancing at a fast pace, yet a lot of precast work still uses basic 2D drawing methods. Currently, when efficiency, accuracy and collaboration are necessary, using 2D drawings by themselves is becoming insufficient.
We see this shift at NEOS and have put model-based 3D detailing into our regular process. We feel it’s time for the entire industry to develop, and we are passionate about setting the standard.
Switching to 3D technology is important because it can improve communication, lower error rates and improve results in all parts of a precast project. I will explain why the upgrade is important and detail the benefits it brings to detailers, site engineers, manufacturers and clients.
1. 2D Workflows Are Slowing Projects Down
Many times in traditional 2D detailing, drawings are checked in different rounds, manually modified and shared among many separate documents. Because this approach is old, it comes with several safety issues.
- Problems with the teams not understanding each other
- There are now more RFIs and site questions asked by clients.
- More likely to repeat the process
3D models handle these issues by putting all dimensions, views and connection details into one place that is simple to use. It is easier and quicker for teams to ensure their designs meet the requirements.
2. Mistakes Are Harder to Catch in 2D
When working with flat drawings, it’s often hard to detect when alignment or embeds are wrong. The challenges often come up during the construction stage, pushing architects into quickly and expensively dealing with them.
With 3D, you are able to:
- Use algorithms to identify problems between objects in a model.
- Examine and check if the panels are installed and measure them correctly.
- See how embeds are used in practical tasks and how they are connected.
- Think about each step in the erection process before you get started
As a result, both the accuracy of the design and the dangers on-site are reduced.
3. Precast Manufacturing Demands Precision
It doesn’t take much error in rebar placement, inserts or lifting anchors to cause big problems in precast production. Because 2D drawings do not always depict complex depths or angles well such issues could happen.
3D model-based detailing includes 3 important elements.
- All components are placed accurately in the real world.
- Data passed from the model straight to the fabrication equipment
- Proper cooperation among designers, detailers and manufacturers
We build every model at NEOS with precision so that it supports both the quality of the design and the effectiveness of manufacturing.
4. 3D Enables Better Coordination Across Stakeholders
This engineering work needs clear conversations among all group members, though 2D drawings can be misread and reviewed more slowly.
Model-based processes let us:
- Users are able to share models online and make comments on them.
- Consultants and clients speed up their approval process
- Better joint efforts among MEP, architectural and structural teams
In 3D, it’s simpler for teams to understand and work together, reducing misunderstandings and maintaining everyone on the same path.
5. The Industry Is Moving Toward Digital Delivery
There is a growing trend where governments, infrastructure teams and private groups are insisting on using BIM and digital ways to build. 3D is now the standard that professionals want.
NEOS and similar firms already apply these standards, guaranteeing that their results meet the digital expectations of modern construction.
Final Thought
2D drafts are useful, yet they shouldn’t be your only way of working. In 2025, using 3D and digital detailing will give a company an edge over others, cut project delays and help avoid expensive mistakes.At NEOS, we’re not just embracing the future—we’re shaping it. As experts in 3D and model-based precast detailing, we’ve already helped countless clients streamline their workflows, reduce errors, and deliver projects with greater speed and precision. The results speak for themselves.