The critical role of open data with Nicholas Cumins

Jan 6, 2025

Nicholas Cumins, the Chief Executive of Bentley Systems, shares his insights on the future of infrastructure technology. He emphasizes the power of data and software solutions in creating resilient infrastructure to meet global demands. Cumins discusses innovative uses of AI and geospatial tools, like digital twins, for improved design and operational efficiency. He also highlights the essential role of open data and collaboration in addressing the sector's challenges, while showcasing his passion for balancing AI advancements with environmental sustainability.

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INSIGHT

Software Bridges Engineer Gap

Infrastructure demand is soaring but engineer availability is insufficient.
Software bridges this capacity gap by boosting infrastructure project delivery efficiency.

INSIGHT

AI Enhances Asset Maintenance

Existing infrastructure assets require better management, not just new builds.
AI and digital tools help systematically monitor asset condition and extend lifespan effectively.

ADVICE

Promote Open Data Flow

Enable free flow of infrastructure data across software platforms to unlock insights.
Avoid trapping data in proprietary formats to address productivity paradox in infrastructure.

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We are back for 2025 and in today's podcast we will I hope, start the new year by catching a glimpse of the art of the possible when it comes to embracing the use of data, technology and digital tools to drive improvement across the infrastructure sector.

As such it is my pleasure to sit down today with Nicholas Cumins, chief executive of global infrastructure software giant Bentley Systems. Nicholas stepped into the hot seat six months ago when former ceo, founder and driving mind for the business Greg Bentley moved up to chair the now public company, ending three decades of family control. So no pressure there then!

Nicholas set out his stall for the direction of the business during his keynote address to the 2024 Bentley Systems Year in Infrastructure event held last October in Vancouver. This annual event gathers infrastructure’s top minds to share information and inspiration, find out what’s new in the digital design, construction and operation world and, or course, to celebrate success with a bunch of now highly coveted awards.

These kind of global events demonstrate clearly how governments around the world are banking on infrastructure investment to drove economies but also that the future of our built environment depends on doing more with less and on achieving better economic and social outcomes for communities.

And as Nicholas pointed out in Vancouver, that means creating new, sustainable solutions that will both protect our natural environment and meet global target for cutting carbon emissions. But it also means finding new and better ways to manage and maintain the vast amount of vital infrastructure that already exists.

Digitalisation, data and the power of AI and data analysis tools are key to helping professionals to make better decisions and creating better outcomes for the societies that rely on it.

And it’s fair to say that software companies like Bentley are developing extraordinary tools to power this transformation. So let’s hear what’s new and what’s around the corner.

Resources
Bentley Systems iLab
The Digital Twin Hub
Bentley Systems Year in Infrastructure 2024
YII 2024 Keynotes
Cesium 3D Tiles
Google partnership
Unreal Engine