Typical architectural documentation includes construction drawings, feasibility plans, permit plans, mechanical and electrical layouts, elevations, sections, renderings, CAD, and BIM models. These documents usually represent design intent, illustrating how an Architect, Engineer, or Designer intends for a building or it's components to be constructed in the real world.

However, actual construction often diverges from the original plans due to variations in fabrication, installation, change-orders, tenant improvements, and evolving mechanical implementations. Consequently, the built environment can differ significantly from initial architectural documentation, especially over time.

As-built drawings and models capture the true, as-built (or as-found) state of a building or space. Developed anytime during or after initial construction, they involve precise measurements to generate an accurate representation of the space or building at that specific moment.

3D laser scanning in particular, has transformed the way as-built data is collected and utilized. The technology enables rapid, highly accurate acquisition of spatial information, which can be integrated into CAD and BIM systems to create as-built plans and digital twins. Such documentation can be employed by building owners and managers to assist with leasing, management, operations, and marketing. For architects, engineers, and builders, as-built documentation supports heightened predictability, site awareness, clash detection, and deviation analysis.

Maintaining accurate as-built records is essential, as outdated or incomplete building information can be the cause of costly transactional errors, construction delays, and operational inefficiencies. For older facilities, architectural documentation is often missing or outdated, while in newer buildings, establishing a reliable as-built baseline is key for ongoing management. Since buildings evolve over time, regular updates help to ensure the accuracy of building records, ultimately optimizing asset performance for building stakeholders.