buildingSMART International Chapter Leader Profile
First name: Maya
Last name: Tryfona
Chapter: Greece
Role in the Chapter: Chairperson
Where are you based? Athens, Greece
When was your first interaction or involvement with buildingSMART?
In 2017, in the Summit in London.
Tell us a little about your work history/professional journey, and how it led you to buildingSMART.
In 2017, while working as a consultant for Schiphol Airport, I became part of the newly established BIM team. My primary role was to bridge the gap between the BIM and GIS departments, to promote better collaboration and to ensure seamless integration between these two essential systems.
This experience was pivotal for me, as it deepened my understanding of the true power of interoperability—how vital it is for these systems to work together in harmony to drive optimal project outcomes. I quickly realized that, to achieve the full potential of digital transformation in construction, standardizing openBIM practices across the industry was critical. This led me to recognize that buildingSMART’s mission to advocate for openBIM was not only the right approach but an essential one for shaping the future of the construction sector.
What do you like the most about the work you do within your Chapter?
The most rewarding part of my work with buildingSMART Greece is that, as a newly formed chapter, we are at the very beginning of an exciting journey. While we have only just begun, I am truly enthusiastic about the opportunities that lie ahead. I am especially looking forward to expanding our collaboration with a community of like-minded professionals who share the same vision for transforming the construction industry in Greece.
What would you say are the biggest successes or milestones to date within your Chapter?
Although buildingSMART Greece is still in its early stages, we have already achieved some important milestones that set the foundation for future success. One of our key accomplishments has been the formation of the chapter itself, which is a significant step in bringing together professionals, organizations, and stakeholders in Greece who are passionate about openBIM and digital transformation in the construction industry.
What does openBIM mean to you personally?
openBIM has the potential to make a positive, lasting impact on both the environment and the quality of life for people everywhere. For me, it is not just about improving processes, it is about making a meaningful contribution to a more sustainable and resilient future.
What overriding challenge(s) do you see the community facing today?
There is still a resistance to change in some sectors of the construction industry, and overcoming this reluctance requires continuous education, demonstration of value, and support from industry leaders.
What challenge(s) do you encounter within your Chapter?
One of the primary challenges is overcoming resistance to change within the traditional construction sector. The adoption of openBIM standards and services requires significant shifts in mindset, processes, and technology.
Additionally, the lack of widespread awareness and understanding of openBIM among many professionals poses a barrier to widespread adoption.
Despite these challenges, we are committed to overcoming them by raising awareness, providing education and resources, and building strong partnerships to advance the adoption of openBIM in Greece.
What do you see as the main opportunities for your market?
In Greece, BIM is increasingly being adopted, especially in the design phase. However, its true potential lies in its application across the entire lifecycle of assets, from design through construction to maintenance and operations. Embracing openBIM across all stages of an asset's lifecycle is essential for maximizing long-term value and improving the efficiency, performance, and sustainability of both buildings and infrastructure in Greece.
What are your visions and/or aspirations for the future, both for your Chapter and for buildingSMART internationally?
The primary vision of the Greek chapter is to drive digital transformation within the Greek construction sector through the adoption of openBIM standards and services. Our goal is to enhance industry efficiency, sustainability, and innovation through key initiatives such as building a network of experts, engaging with stakeholders, promoting buildingSMART International activities, translating and disseminating resources, and encouraging collaboration between the public and private sectors.
On a broader scale, we aim to support the mission of buildingSMART International by advancing openBIM adoption, improving interoperability, and driving digital transformation within the construction industry.
Updated in March 2025