10 Ways Technology Is Transforming The Construction Sector

Construction is rapidly changing and technology has played a tremendous role in this transformation. Building projects’ perplexity is increasing while productivity and efficiency rates are decreasing. As a result, the advent of digitization can be a valuable gift for the sector.

Nonetheless, many construction stakeholders still can’t fully understand the impact technology will have on the way they work and build. This resistance has created critical issues in construction.

Mark Farmer, Founding Director and CEO at Cast, recently published an informative report entitled ‘Modernise or Die.’ The report discusses the sector’s serious challenges and how digital tools could help create a more transparent and accountable construction industry.

With this in mind, we decided to look at the numerous changes technology could bring to construction. Here are 10 of the most notable transformations which are already changing the industry:

1. BIM (Building Information Modelling)

Building Information Modeling (BIM) has significantly modernized construction operations. Since it can digitally represent the building structure, it’s a crucial tool for providing clients with a glimpse of their future investments. Plus it has also evolved and emphasizes team collaboration to be fully functional. In a nutshell, more collaboration signifies less mistrust between construction stakeholders.

2. Robotics

The robotics industry has been making massive progress in the construction industry. Robotics can improve efficiency in construction processes. One such example is the famous robotic arm made by MIT, the Digital Construction Platform. It uses 3D printing technology to build a structure. Of course, it is essential to note the industry’s stage. It is still new, and researchers are still trying to create better technology that can be used on various construction projects.

3. Big data

Big data is taking over construction, providing several opportunities for the sector. It has already had a lot of success in providing managers and contractors with project intelligence.

Thanks to the vast amounts of data available, construction agents can predict the outcome of a project and prevent costly mistakes. Furthermore, it can provide valuable insight into which future projects can be designed and executed with higher precision.

4. Construction Software

Software has played a significant role in modernizing various sectors. The same applies to the construction industry, which is constantly gaining ground.First, we have construction software that offers clients and contractors a wide range of functions and features. Project management software provides features such as budgeting, planning, forecasting, scheduling, etc.

At the same time, software solutions emphasize particular aspects of the building process. Scheduling software is an example, as it ensures that a project progresses according to plan.

5. Virtual and augmented reality

Virtual reality tech in construction has attracted a lot of attention. It is, of course, due to its many uses.

To begin with, VR enables virtual walkthroughs and allows contractors and clients to witness a realistic display of what the project will eventually look like. This powerful element is expected to boost accuracy during the construction process and reduce project costs and delays. Furthermore, it facilitates adjustments and changes to plans during the designing and planning phase.

VR also strongly stimulates employee training. The result is less time wasted, the use of innovative equipment, and a safer environment. One example is the famous Daqri helmet.

Augmented reality has not gained the same popularity as VR in the world of construction, but it is slowly making its presence known. AR tech’s job is to enhance an object or structure in a construction project via information. In other words, it provides measurements, material statistics,, andother details on a given object.

6. Modular construction

Prefabricated or modular construction is a new way of doing things in the building sector that has been gaining momentum for some time now. This technology allows most construction work to move off-site. The structure is broken into separate parts and created in a secure plant facility.

According to Modular.org, modular construction can move up to 80% of construction work off-site. On a similar note, Westchester Modular claims that modular construction increases construction project speed by up to 65 times.

7. Artificial intelligence

AI has developed in various ways. Currently, Machine learning and Deep learning are the two most popular aspects. AI can bring a lot of benefits to the construction industry. In an article, Anand Rajagopal discusses that AI can contribute to construction with generative design, risk mitigation, and safety.

Improvements in algorithms to solve complicated problems and come up with the best solution are another way AI is transforming construction.

8. Innovative building materials

Various innovative materials are being created to improve how things work in construction.

Largely due to the spirit of multiple researchers at well-known universities. One such example is the development of cement that generates light. It is a special material created by Dr. Carlos from UMSNH of Moreli.

Another innovative method is creating bricks out of cigarette butts. A material to reduce the impact cigarettes have on the environment.

We will see more of these innovations that will slowly and surely bring a new light to how things have been constructed.

9. Knowledge workers

The workers of the future in construction will be knowledge workers. With technology comes the need for a different way of using labor in construction projects. Intelligent workers who are capable of implementing new technologies in projects will be in demand.

The change can already be seen and is expected to become even more visible during the next ten years. A change in recruitment will appear, and an excellent opportunity for construction to review its status and emerge as a field for promising long-term careers will become apparent.

10. Gamification

Gamification uses gaming rules such as goals and points systems to increase project engagement and boost problem-solving.

In construction, gamification is now a brilliant way to increase employee motivation and make the assigned tasks more interesting. By adding competition to projects or tasks, managers can increase the pace of their projects and create a much more productive atmosphere on-site.

A different take on gamification is to assess leadership skills cheaply and unbiasedly—it’s a pretty good tactic to evaluate a potential manager or the performance of current managers.

Conclusion

The list of ways construction is transforming is growing as we speak. Above are only a few of the emerging changes. In any case, the future of construction looks bright, and now is the perfect time for bold new investments in the industry.