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I was particularly taken by Oasys' exploration of the issues that affect non-linear and lightweight structures, and the wonderful explanation of 'tensegrity' - the way in which the strengths of lightweight structures sometimes rely on opposing forces. The article explains it far more lucidly and features some excellent examples, from spider webs to Arup's Marsyas sculpture in the Tate Modern.

StruSoft is represented with a case study detailing how FEM_Design was used to design the concrete elements of the Kings Court project, a prestigious new seven storey residential, retail and restaurant development in Covent Garden. The analytical and design software was used in conjunction with other StruSoft analytical tools due to the complex nature of the different load combinations in the design.

We also take a look in this issue at Tekla Structural Designer, a total design solution that incorporates both the analysis and design of concrete and steel structures within one package. Recently launched, the software gives engineers the chance to analyse a structure, review the results, modify the design and re-analyse without having to leave Structural Designer - with the obvious benefits in terms of efficiency and time saving that brings.

Finally we have a case study from Bentley that illustrates how effective collaboration between designers and detailers using AECOsim's BIM capabilities has enabled a couple of months to be cut from the construction of a new scientific facility - a saving for the client of $1M a month!

There's a lot of chat in the industry at the moment about skill shortages and future challenges. Throughout, contractors are becoming alarmed at the lack of young people emerging with the skills to take the industry forward - something that may well impede the rate of progress in an industry ramping up its commitments to large scale infrastructure projects.

On the other hand, the BIM 2050 Group of young construction professionals has responded to Paul Morrell's "direct challenge" in his recent Edge Commission Report, 'Collaboration for Change', to lead from the front and help radically improve the industry, and to create a profession capable of meeting the needs of the 21st century.

The 25 individual members of the BIM 2050 Group, set up in September 2012 by the Construction Industry Council, and each representing different institutions within the CIC, have accepted Paul Morrell's challenge, and stress that the future lies in effective collaboration. They have vowed to look ahead and positively shape the future of the industry, researching and reporting on how the industry will develop through BIM Level 3 and beyond.

With one of Paul Morrell's critical concerns relating to the industry's response to climate change, it will be interesting to hear the 2050 Group's responses, which they promise to air in October at Digital Construction Week.

Keeping with the theme of up and coming stars in the industry, we also showcase in this issue the most recent winner of the Nemetschek Vectorworks Design Scholarships. If you are quick enough, and still a student, then you may still have time to enter the 2015 competition - see the article on page 30 for more details.

by David Chadwick