The construction industry has been changing rapidly in the last few decades and will continue to do so in the coming years. Technology continues to play an ever-larger role in almost every aspect of construction. From 3D printing to connected buildings, artificial intelligence (AI) to virtual reality, there are now more opportunities for innovation than ever before.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the emerging technologies impacting construction projects, as well as how these projects are managed and how organizations can utilize them to their advantage.
Virtual Reality (VR)
Virtual reality (VR) has become very popular in the last few years as more people discover its many uses. VR can be used for entertainment, education, marketing, and even construction project management.
Most construction companies have some VR training programs in place for their employees. VR training has become very popular for safety-related topics and can be used for everything from crane operations to confined space entry. In addition, most construction project management software providers are now integrating VR into their products. Contractors can create 3D models of their projects to be viewed, edited, and projected in virtual reality.
Augmented Reality (AR)
Augmented reality (AR) is another popular technology that has been used in construction management in recent years. Like VR, contractors can use AR to create virtual models of their projects so they can view and edit them more easily.
Contractors can also use AR to provide additional information to their field crews. For example, AR can be used to show the exact locations of underground utilities before any digging is done. It’s also an effective way for workers in the field to get information from project managers or engineers without going back and forth between locations.
Robotics
Robotics have been used in the construction industry for many years. Industrial robots have been used in factories to improve productivity and efficiency for decades. Newer robotics technology suitable for the construction industry has recently become more affordable, offering more options for contractors.
Robotics can be used in many different construction areas, from excavation to demolition. They can also be used for heavy lifting and installing equipment.
In construction project management, robots can be used to collect data. Contractors can place sensors on their equipment, and robots can scan the site and create 3D models. Some construction software providers allow users to integrate their data to develop models for the project. This data can then be used in project management to help create timelines and track progress.
Predictive Analytics
Predictive analytics are computer systems that use historical data to predict future outcomes. Powered by artificial intelligence (AI), predictive analytics can be used in many different industries and on many different levels. AI may be able to make predictions in construction work more quickly and with greater accuracy than a human can.
For example, contractors can use predictive analytics to forecast their schedules, predict the weather, and indicate energy use. The data collected is used to create models based on past data. These models are then projected to forecast future outcomes. Predictive analytics technology can also predict how much energy equipment will consume and when. This can help users manage their energy costs and reduce waste.
Construction Project Management Software
Construction project management software has many benefits and helps contractors streamline the building process of a project. By integrating the data and information from various sources, construction managers can create a more efficient building process and save time and money. Contractors can use construction project management software to create a digital model of the site, track progress, manage contracts, oversee equipment purchases and maintenance, review financials, and collect data on time usage and energy consumption.
The use of construction project management software has also helped organizations move from traditional to more agile project management. Construction work comes with a significant amount of ambiguity, which makes agile project management particularly beneficial, as it fosters collaboration across teams and helps decrease that uncertainty. This ultimately has helped many construction companies reduce costs, improve efficiency, and increase revenue.
3D Printing
Though many industries can benefit from 3D printing, in construction, contractors can use it to create their design mock-ups. They can also use it to make small parts that are needed on site. 3D printing is not used on every project and typically will be used in the design phase. Designers can create 3D models of their design, and contractors can use 3D printers to create mock-ups of the design.
This technology can also be used to create small parts that are needed on site. Many construction project management software companies have integrated 3D printing into their software. Contractors can upload their designs to the software and let the software create the model they need for the project.
Internet of Things (IoT)
The IoT is a network of devices, appliances, and tools that are connected and can communicate with one another. IoT technology has been used in many industries but has recently been adopted by the construction industry.
Many construction project managers are currently integrating IoT technology into their operations. Contractors can connect sensors to their equipment and buildings and create data. This data is stored in the cloud and can be used to develop models and send alerts when something significant happens.
Conclusion
The construction industry is changing at a rapid pace. As more organizations embrace these quickly-developing technologies, the construction industry will be able to become more efficient and productive overall.
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