Just like any other industries, the construction industry is slowly changing for the better– thanks to the recent advancements in technology. Construction workers don’t have to rely on hard copies of the construction plan solely, nor wait for several days to have a phone line.
Technology made it possible to access blueprints digitally, and communicate with each other through the Internet or mobile devices. However, that’s not all; the updates and upgrades in computer-based applications, together with the developments in technology have made the construction industry more reliant on new technology than before.
Here are some ways on how technology is disrupting the construction industry.
BIM Continues to Grow
Perhaps, one of the most significant uses of technology in the construction world is building information modeling. With this innovation, it has become possible to produce highly accurate virtual building models because it’s very powerful drafting and collaboration software.
Aside from that, it also functions as a library of information that contains the design, maintenance, and construction of a structure. Through this, the creation process– be it tunnels, buildings, bridges, roads, or just about anything has become more efficient and accurate.
With BIM, it has become possible to see what the project will look like upon completion– digitally. This allows the team to perform the necessary modifications if needed.
Furthermore, unlike the more traditional blueprints where you have to rely on sketches, BIM offers 3D models that allow contractors to have a virtual walkthrough of the project. Every information, such as the exterior surfaces, interior walls, windows, doors, and even the plumbing fixtures are all included in BIM renderings, allowing the project managers to be able to view the entire project and see if any changes should be made.
The only problem with BIM is that, although there’s no shortage of BIM tools, lack of skills to utilize them would make it seem complicated.
Seamless Integration with Construction Apps
For the past few years, the tools made explicitly for the construction industry keeps on growing– ranging from smart wearables, such as safety goggles, safety vests, smart hats, to apps that improve safety within the construction site.
These apps are capable of keeping records of project files and any changes made are automatically synced with another platform. This means that those who will need this information would have real-time access to plans on site.
Back then, this seems to be impossible as it has to be done on reams of paper, or if electronically, the data are stored in desktop computers in an office, and there’s no way of accessing them while on the job site. With technology, it doesn’t matter where you are– you’ll be able to obtain the information, giving you a competitive advantage.
New Technology Helps Streamline the Process of Construction Bidding
With new technology, construction bidding has become more comfortable– it’s a crucial aspect to ensure success. With the help of construction apps, the workflow and project management productivity has dramatically improved.
For instance, workers can now utilize Dropbox where they can comment on PDF documents, allowing the whole team to see if there are any updates, wherever they are. This improves overall productivity because the entire team would be able to collaborate on a file more naturally. Not just that, the apps made from the construction industry are usually easy to manage and use.
Additionally, being able to review the project plan allows the whole team to focus on producing quality and keep the creative energy flowing. Instead of merely getting the job done, they can focus more on improving quality.
Remote Control
Almost everything in the construction industry seems to be controlled remotely– from drones to driverless vehicles. Technology allows workers to monitor the work without being physically present.
Which means, no worker would have to risk his life just to get the job done. Aside from that, another huge benefit that can be enjoyed with autonomous machinery would be the remarkable improvement in efficiency as the energy output can now be carefully monitored and optimized.
The Future Of The Construction Industry Looks Bright!
Even though the construction industry is still in its early stages of tech disruption, there’s no denying that the new ones are already having a considerable impact, and wean expect this to continue for years to come. Technology would continue to make the building process simpler, faster, and much more efficient.