Digital transformation is no longer the future of construction – It’s happening now.
For over three decades, STRABAG, one of the leading players in the regional construction industry, has been building, innovating, and introducing new technologies to the Croatian market. As a Silver Member of the Centre for Digital Built Croatia (CDI), STRABAG is actively working to enhance digital processes in construction, setting new standards that are transforming the way we build – making it more efficient, safer, and more sustainable.
In an exclusive interview with Boško Mišlov, BIM Department Manager, we learn about their perspective on the state of digitalization in Croatia, the projects where they are driving innovation, and why digital transformation is an inevitable step for the entire sector.
1. How would you briefly describe your company and its contribution to the construction sector?
Our company is one of the leading players in the construction industry in the region, recognized for high-quality standards, innovation, and a sustainable approach to building.
We have been present in Croatia for thirty years, with around 1,500 experts and more than 150 projects annually across nearly all segments of construction – from infrastructure and building construction to bridges, tunnels, and special structures. But our contribution to the sector goes beyond numbers: STRABAG continuously introduces innovations and sets trends in the construction industry – particularly in digitalization, where we were among the first in Croatia to implement BIM and modern digital tools in everyday practice. This allows us to actively transform the way construction is carried out – making it more efficient, safer, and more sustainable.
2. What motivated you to become a partner of CDI?
We recognize CDI as a key organization systematically promoting the digital transformation of the construction sector in Croatia. STRABAG, as a company that continuously invests in digital tools and knowledge, naturally joined CDI to contribute its experience and international expertise to the development of digitalization on a national level.
3. How do you assess the current state of digitalization in Croatia’s construction sector?
At present, digitalization in Croatia’s construction sector is still at a relatively low level. Although BIM is increasingly being used in the design phase, it is often not fully leveraged – models are used primarily as drawing aids, with little collaboration between disciplines or connection to quantities. On construction sites, digital tools are rare, and the maintenance phase is hardly digitalized at all. A lack of standardization, clear guidelines, and legal frameworks further slows progress, meaning that digital transformation largely depends on the initiative of individual companies or professionals.
4. Which projects are you most proud of that involve digital tools or innovations?
On the Blue Mare project in Novigrad, we used a digital platform for snagging and integrated the BIM model with 360° photography for the first time, significantly improving defect tracking and resolution.
On the Špansko swimming complex project, we modeled the entire pool equipment and detected critical clashes before construction even began.
For DV Kila, we highlight the use of checklist inspections based on BIM models within Dalux, which enabled much faster and more precise quality control on-site.
On the Hrvatski Leskovac – Karlovac railway project, we developed a detailed LOD 400 model that was used both during construction and for redesign needs, supported by construction management platforms.
For the Kranjčevićeva stadium renovation, drones were used to capture existing conditions, and based on cadastral data, we created a precise installation model.
On the Caprag project, a 4D animation was developed in Synchro Pro, including the construction schedule, enabling day-by-day visual and time-aligned site monitoring. Additionally, a 3D-printed model of the project was produced.
Each of these projects demonstrates that BIM and digital tools are not merely technical support, but strategic instruments for managing quality and efficiency in everyday operations.
5. Which technologies or approaches (e.g., BIM, IoT, AI, construction management platforms) are key in your daily work?
BIM methodology plays a crucial role in our day-to-day work, enabling better coordination, more accurate planning, and greater efficiency on construction sites. We use a variety of digital tools and platforms, including Revit for multidisciplinary modeling, Civil 3D and ProVI for infrastructure projects, and Synchro Pro for 4D scheduling and visualization of construction phases. We also rely on cloud-based solutions like Trimble Connect and Autodesk Construction Cloud (BIM 360) for real-time collaboration and data access, while Dalux supports defect management and quality control in the field.
Although AI and IoT are still in the testing phase and not yet part of our daily routine, we closely monitor their development and are considering how to integrate them into our processes in the future.
6. How does collaboration through CDI benefit your business?
Working with CDI enables continuous improvement through knowledge exchange with other experts, participation in events, and involvement in professional working groups. We actively contribute to the technical committee TO 551 at the Croatian Standards Institute, where we help develop standards that are essential for a harmonized and systematic digital transition in the construction industry.
7. How do you see the future of digital construction in Croatia and the wider region?
Digital construction is key to the future development of the sector – it enables greater efficiency, transparency, and safety. In Croatia and the region, we expect further integration of BIM, 3D modeling, automation, and smart platforms. However, without clear legislation, standardized guidelines, and institutional support, progress will remain slow and fragmented. Only through joint efforts – by companies, industry associations, and government bodies – can we create a sustainable and competitive sector ready to meet future challenges.
8. What message would you send to other members of the community and those considering digital transformation?
Start as soon as possible. Digital transformation requires investment – in people, tools, and processes – but it pays off many times over. More precise modeling, better coordination, and faster project delivery are just some of the benefits. Experience shows that digitalization leads to long-term savings, improved quality, and greater competitiveness in an ever-changing market.
Digital construction is becoming an increasingly important factor in creating a sustainable, efficient, and transparent construction sector. Our conversation with STRABAG illustrates how digital tools can transform processes – from more accurate planning to higher-quality execution and maintenance of assets.
But it also makes one thing clear: there is still a long way to go before digitalization becomes the norm rather than the exception. Only through the joint efforts of companies, professional associations, and legislative bodies can Croatia create an environment where digital construction becomes the standard, not just an ambitious goal.
