From Paper to Precision: Building a Fully Digital Inspection Workflow for LNG Modules
Introduction: Moving Beyond the ‘As-Is’
In LNG module construction, inspection workflows are mission-critical—but still largely manual. Despite digital tools in pockets of the process, LNG companies lack a truly end-to-end digital ecosystem that connects planning, execution, and handover.
This fragmentation affects every stage—from creating inspection plans and managing Resident Engineer (RE) tasks to capturing reports and closing punch lists. The result? Slower delivery, increased rework, and limited visibility across teams.
Recognizing these challenges, one of our leading LNG customers recently delivered a compelling internal presentation that laid out their path to transformation. Rather than layering more tools onto a broken process, they proposed a unified digital workflow powered by mixed reality (MR) and intelligent data integration.
Their vision centers on connecting field activities with centralized planning and reporting—enabling real-time deviation tracking, immersive collaboration, and faster decision-making. By aligning technology with inspector needs and operational realities, they’re not just digitizing inspection—they’re redefining it.
Understanding the Current “As-Is” Process
Today’s LNG module inspection process follows a structured but manual flow:
- Preparation & Documentation Review Teams rely on 2D drawings like P&IDs, isometrics, and GAs. The Inspection and Test Plan (ITP) guides the activity, but most inputs are still manual.
- Site Visual Inspection Inspectors perform checks using printed checklists and visual verification. Subsystem-based inspections focus on piping, E&I, and structural elements.
- Punch List Management Non-conformities are documented and assigned to responsible teams. Punch lists are digitally stored, but inputs are manually entered.
- Rework and Re-inspection Field teams execute corrections and update punch list status manually.
- Client Inspection Once punch points are closed, the system is reviewed and cleared for commissioning.
Key Challenges in the Current Workflow
Despite its structure, today’s inspection process faces persistent pain points:
- Limited Traceability Inspection checklists and punch lists lack real-time visibility. Teams struggle to trace non-conformities or monitor live progress.
- Late Stage Rework Rework and execution delays inflate project costs and push schedules off track.
- No Visual Comparison (3D vs. Real Construction) Inspectors walk the site with 2D drawings in hand, trying to match what’s built to what was designed—without any visual overlay. It’s like comparing a blueprint to a maze, one pipe at a time.
- Time-Consuming Manual Work There’s no single digital source of truth. Inspectors must cross-reference multiple documents and instructions on-site, increasing the risk of oversight.
Challenge #1: Lack of a Data-Driven Inspection Process
The data already exists—in BIM systems, document control platforms, and inspection records. But there’s no seamless integration that connects all stages of the process:
From initiation → execution → reporting → closure.
To move forward, we need a connected digital ecosystem where every inspection activity is:
- Captured in real time
- Linked with its corresponding design data
- Accessible through a single digital interface
This integration enables data-driven decision-making, reduces human error, and improves inspection accuracy across the board.
Such a connected digital inspection environment brings:
- Real-time progress tracking
- Reduced rework and cost of quality
- Faster handover and commissioning
- Full traceability and compliance visibility
Conclusion: Bridging the Digital Gap
Digital transformation in inspection isn’t just about replacing paper with tablets—it’s about creating a single source of truth that connects data, people, and processes.
By bridging the digital gap, oil and gas companies can unlock:
- Smarter inspections
- Proactive issue detection
- Faster project delivery
- AI-powered quality management
The future of LNG module inspections is connected, intelligent, and traceable. Let’s build it—together.
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