The Virtual Building™ embraces the entire building industry and manages the entire information life cycle of buildings. Ben Wallbank from London architects JRA explains, through his years of hands-on experience, how integrating virtual modeling throughout the design process is the way forward. Unlike a simple 3D model on a computer, the Virtual Building™ contains a great deal more information about the building's materials and characteristics. It is a 3D digital database that tracks all elements that make up a building. This information can include surface area and volume; thermal properties; room descriptions; price; specific product information; window, door and finish schedules; and more.