Event for work environment,
workplaces and building management
For the Netherlands, Belgium
and North Rhine-Westphalia

Greater ease of use at Utrecht University

February 8, 2026 | From the editors

Utrecht University, with approximately 650.000 square meters of real estate, faced the challenge of effectively managing real estate information. Managing 200 properties, ranging from modern to historic buildings, is a complex task. Jasper Garssen, head of the Real Estate Information department, emphasizes the need for a centralized system for sharing information.

Traditionally, real estate management relied on physical archives. With the implementation of BIMcollab Twin , the university has succeeded in digitizing and centralizing thousands of documents. This offers not only ease of use but also the ability to quickly and reliably exchange information between different user groups.

BIMcollab Twin utilizes metadata, leading to a standardized method of information management. This system supports not only archiving but also collaboration between various departments and external parties via a common data environment. As a result, project managers, contractors, and students can easily access relevant information.

With increasing pressure on educational institutions to report sustainability measures, the new system offers the ability to accurately document CO2 emissions and building materials. Utrecht University is collaborating with other universities on the further development of BIMcollab Twin, which promotes the continuity of knowledge sharing and innovation.

The integration of artificial intelligence in the future can also help predict maintenance needs and optimize energy consumption. This development emphasizes the university's role as a learning community that is always striving for improvement.