# Seeking a Definition of Digital Twins for Construction and Infrastructure Management
## 6 Discussion of the Proposed Definitions and Use Cases  
### Introduction  
The utilisation of DT technology in various industries, particularly in construction and infrastructure management, emphasises its potential to transform conventional methods and results. This research has revealed that DTs function as a technological innovation and a paradigm shift, promoting a more integrated and sophisticated strategy for building and infrastructure management.  
In construction, DTs offer a significant leap in how projects are visualised, managed, and delivered. The data-driven nature of DTs allows for a more accurate and dynamic representation of projects, facilitating better decision-making and efficiency. Our findings suggest that, while the integration of DTs in construction is still in its promising stages compared to sectors such as manufacturing and aeronautics, the potential for optimising  
Figure 5: Technologies and interoperability issues.  
project lifecycle management is immense. This potential is particularly notable in complex projects where multiple stakeholders require real-time data to make informed decisions.  
For example, in the development of a DT-based management system for the Bidebieta-Basauri railway station as part of a remodelling project. This system exemplifies the practical benefits of DTs in construction and ongoing infrastructure management. By integrating technologies, such as BIM, GIS, IoT, and cloud computing, the system provides a comprehensive management tool that enables real-time monitoring and management of critical parameters, such as CO\({}_{2}\) levels, occupancy, temperature, and humidity. This case highlights how DTs can optimise operational efficiency and proactive maintenance in real-world settings.  
Another compelling example from our research is the DT implementation at UPM's Civil Engineering School. The DT environment was crucial during the COVID-19 pandemic, facilitating space reservations and managing occupancy to adhere to health guidelines. DTs have allowed for the detailed visualisation and management of space utilisation in real time, ensuring safety and compliance with public health protocols. This example underscores the role of DT not just in project management but in facility management under crisis conditions, demonstrating its adaptability and critical importance in emergency response and health safety management.  
These examples vividly illustrate how DTs in construction go beyond mere theoretical applications to deliver tangible actionable benefits. By enabling a more integrated, real-time approach to project and facility management, DTs enhance the responsiveness and flexibility of construction and infrastructure operations, leading to improved project outcomes and more efficient resource management.  
The implementation of digital technology in the construction industry is hindered by various obstacles. One of the primary concerns is the requirement for substantial initial investments in technology and training. Additionally, the conventional resistance of the construction industry to change and the fragmented nature of its operations pose significant barriers to DT adoption. Nevertheless, the strategic implementation of DTs can result in long-term cost savings, improved project outcomes, and enhanced sustainability.