Construction is an industry that’s always looking for new ways to improve efficiency and reduce costs. With the arrival of the “Industrial Revolution,” production shifted from being done in homes to factories, with huge economic benefits. The latest revolution? Construction technology.
Construction tech is changing the way we work in construction, with apps that are taking over everything from project management to job costing. Here are some ways that construction technology is changing the industry.
Apps
Technology is transforming how we communicate in the construction industry. It’s now possible to use an app to share documents, collaborate on blueprints, and send emails to coworkers.
But apps for construction technology go beyond communication. Construction tech includes everything from apps that track job expenses and generate estimates, to apps that notify employees about their schedules and provide real-time updates on projects. Apps are taking over many aspects of the industry, enabling offices and workers alike get more done with less effort.
Virtual Reality & Augmented Reality
Virtual reality and augmented reality are two of the most cutting-edge developments in construction tech. These technologies have a variety of applications for the construction industry, from improving training to increasing productivity.
One of the most popular applications for virtual reality is in training. VR can be used to train workers on new technology, simulate an experience so it’s more realistic, or allow a worker to practice before they face a real-life scenario. Construction workers often have specialized skills that require training before they get started on a project. VR allows these workers to become familiar with their work environment before actually going into that environment – which can save time and money on projects.
Augmented reality also has many applications for the construction industry. One example is using AR to provide instructions on a job site – like how to use a tool correctly or where materials should go – without having to leave the work area or interrupting workflow.
AR also has potential for use in inspections, 3D modeling, and more. With augmented reality, you can take measurements with your phone and instantly see them translated into 3D space, view models from any angle without taking physical measurements, and even create your own mockups without ever drawing on paper or using a computer.
Artificial Intelligence
The latest technology to come into construction is artificial intelligence. Artificial technology, like Amazon’s Alexa, is giving business owners the opportunity to automate their processes and lead to more efficient and cost-effective projects. From robotics and drones in infrastructure, to 3D modelling and scanning services, AI has an amazing potential for how we work in construction.
Automation from traffic cones
The first and most obvious change is that construction tech has automated many of the tasks that humans traditionally did. These jobs were often time-consuming and laborious, so it makes sense to create technology to do them.
For example, autobid software from traffic cones saves hours of bidding by automating the process of submitting bids for a project. No more copy-pasting or filling in data sheets – you simply upload your company’s information and the software does the work for you.
As well as making bidding easier, this automation also reduces costs: you don’t need an expensive human workforce to manage your bids anymore.
The Future of Construction Technology
Construction is one of the oldest industries in the world, and it’s always looking for ways to improve efficiency and reduce costs. One way that technology has helped? Becoming a more important part of the construction industry. Technologies like iPads and project management apps have taken over tasks like pricing jobs and tracking time, work hours, and materials. These apps help contractors and builders be more efficient than ever before.
One popular example of an app that’s making a big difference in construction? Job costing apps. You can use these apps to easily track your time, material costs, job value, etc., which makes it easy to stay on top of your finances. This is especially helpful when you’re running a smaller business with one or two employees who may not be trained in accounting procedures yet.
There are many other construction tech tools that are changing the industry too – from Google Earth to 3D modeling software to drones. Get to know all about how to use a 3D scanner to analyze a real-world object or environment.
Beyond this, construction tech is also impacting intersecting and adjacent industries like mechanical engineering. This is apparent through the services offered by mechanical engineering consultancies such as barair mechanical consultant who, with the advent of advanced technology, can now offer help to businesses with computer-based parametric 3D modelling; finite element analysis and kinematic simulation; and photorealistic and VR renderings for project presentation.
Construction tech is an industry with no end in sight; even in this article we’ve only touched on some examples. With new technologies available every day, there are always new ways for construction companies to grow their businesses. There are so many opportunities for contractors to keep up with technological innovations because there is so much variety.
Construction tech has changed the way we build buildings, and it’s changing the way we do everything else. The construction industry has been slow to adopt new technologies, but that’s changing. Construction tech is revolutionizing how we build buildings, but it’s also transforming everything from insurance to architecture.
Construction tech is a complicated industry, and every company is going to have a different strategy for success. But one thing is clear: if construction companies want to stay relevant in the future, they will need to embrace the tech revolution.
