Technology can play a huge role in construction. Over the last 50 years or so, we’ve seen technologies advance and drive the construction industry forward. So, why do we need technology in the construction industry? It makes our construction sites safer, our workers more efficient and our collaboration efforts more refined. Here are some ways technology is shaping the construction industry.

Improve Productivity

A productive project is essential for meeting certain deadlines and even budget constraints. Today, technology in construction has allowed companies to manage all aspects of their project in an efficient manner.

Technology is incredibly useful during all construction phases of a project, from planning to post-construction. Software, particularly cloud-based software, can assist construction companies by helping to streamline their processes leading up to a project, as well as changing and updating schedules and budgets in real time. Mobile technology enables on-site workers to submit timesheets, expense reports, and send project updates promptly.

Robots and artificial intelligence (AI) are being used to monitor project progress with real time, actionable data to improve job site productivity and estimate a time of completion. Sensors can be installed on equipment to track how it is moving throughout the construction site. This eliminates wasted time moving about the site to retrieve tools and equipment for tasks.

Offsite construction is typically used on large-scale projects like apartment buildings, schools and retirement facilities. Building components are manufactured in a plant or factory before being assembled on the actual construction site. At Solutions Built, we use pre-fabricated construction materials like AFS Logicwall, Rediwall and Hebel. Because these materials are made to measure specifically for a building, they help cut increase the speed of construction and also on-site waste.

Focus on Safety

As technology in construction advances, it is becoming a priority to create systems for improved workplace safety.

Several safety training programs and equipment pieces now exist, and they are making a huge impact in the construction industry. Using virtual reality, construction workers can practice completing jobs in either confined spaces or at a certain height, all in a safe and controlled environment.

Wearable tech on personal protective equipment (PPE) will start to gain popularity. Common construction equipment like hard hats and work boots can be outfitted with smart technology to monitor workers’ movements and alert project managers of any slips and falls.

Drones are also being used on construction sites to improve safety. They can be used to conduct site inspections in case any conditions change, identify any potential hazards and monitor workers to ensure they are safely completing tasks.

Improve Collaboration

Good collaboration in the construction industry requires excellent communication. For a project to be successful, it’s important to share necessary information like project progress with stakeholders.

Using technology in construction like smartphones and apps has certainly made communication and collaborating during a project a lot easier. For instance, workers can use their phones to share project updates and send pictures for inspections. Smartphones also allow workers to join in on meetings on the job site, rather than driving to an office. With real time communication, any issues or queries on the construction site can be resolved efficiently and effectively.

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a collaborative process that allows architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) professionals the opportunity efficiently plan, design and construction buildings with one 3D model. Any changes to the BIM model can happen in real time, and updates can instantly be communicated to workers who have access to the model. Team members can review the model onsite and on their phone, ensuring they have the most up-to-date information at any time. BIM certainly allows for sharing and collaborating more than a paper drawing would.

How Has Technology in Construction Worked For Solutions Built?

At Solutions Built, we make sure to use the latest technology in construction to assist our workers. To find out more about the technologies we use and some tips on how to implement them, feel free to get in touch.