The Globe and Mail reports in its Monday edition that digital twin technology is making it easier for workers in industries such as energy or construction to monitor sites remotely via virtual 3-D models. The Globe's Pippa Norman writes that while Canadian technology is being adopted by companies around the world to take advantage of this competitive edge, adoption rates at home are lagging. Remote projects are some of the largest and most complex; think mines, oil refineries or power plants. Hundreds of workers and moving parts come together in these massive operations, posing a challenge to those tasked with keeping them running smoothly. Previously, constant monitoring meant regular, thorough site visits, during which notes of progress or incidents would be made. "A picture, it's worth a thousand words. A 3-D model is maybe worth three times as much," said James Smith, director at consultant Turner & Townsend. Using sensors and data analytics, digital twins provide a real-time model of a physical asset while it is being built. The software also centralizes project data, increasing the likelihood that infrastructure is delivered on time and within budget. Imperial Oil, BC Hydro and Exxon are using the technology.