The pandemic has plunged many global contractors into one of the most challenging times. Global construction output fell by 3.1% in 2020, according to GlobalData. In Western Europe, construction fell by about 7.3%, in the US by 1.7%, and in Northeast Asia by 0.9%. Nowadays, the industry has started to adopt new tech solutions and choose construction software development, but the progress remains slow and modest. The engineering and construction (E&C) industry shies away from innovative solutions so that construction specialists end up wasting nearly a third of their time on non-optimal operations.
The lack of innovations on construction sites results in increased costs, job delays, and workplace safety hazards. Based on more than 5-year expertise in custom construction software development, in this article, the Intelvision team reveals the major reasons why construction fails to abandon the analog age.
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Reasons for Setbacks of Construction Tech
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Fragmented Construction Projects
Construction projects are generally divided into multiple parts. With so many teams typically working together, projects become a perfect illustration of the old saying “Too many cooks spoil the broth”. When many businesses are working on a single project, miscommunications are also not uncommon, costing the construction industry more than $31 billion each year.
Safety Concerns
Construction sites are hazardous environments, with numerous safety risks. Safety concerns have significant implications for workers, contractors, and the industry at large. The construction sector has implemented safety measures, but they are not enough to eliminate the risk of accidents.
Project Delays
The construction sector suffers from delays due to a host of reasons, including unexpected events, inaccurate estimates, weather conditions, and coordination problems. In turn, delays can impact the profitability of projects, lead to cost overruns, and erode client trust. Overcoming delays requires meticulous planning and clear communication and collaboration between contractors, subcontractors, and other stakeholders.
Cost Overruns
Project costs can quickly escalate due to unforeseen events, design changes, material shortages, and other factors. These cost changes can lead to disputes and litigation, hurt project productivity, and exhaust resources.
How Technology Can Resolve Challenges Across the Entire Sector
Despite all challenges mentioned, few early tech adopters are now finding new ways of solving the old sector’s problems.
Improved Communication
With the emergence of technology, construction managers can utilize innovative software solutions that make communication more manageable and efficient. These solutions include project management software, virtual reality tools, instant messaging platforms, and video conferencing, which enable stakeholders to communicate and collaborate in real-time regardless of their location.
Enhanced Safety Measures
With the development of the Internet of Things (IoT), sensors, and wearables, it is now possible to monitor and improve safety procedures in real-time. Wearables such as smart helmets and vests can detect environmental hazards, record workers’ vital signs, and alert nearby workers of potential dangers.
Optimized Project Management
Technology has enabled construction managers to optimize project management effectively. Construction project management guide and software can help managers oversee every aspect of a project from pre-construction to post-construction. It allows for real-time tracking of project progress, scheduling tasks, and resources, managing budgets, and forecasting potential risks. This integration of technology also enables better decision-making, which ultimately leads to improved efficiency and cost savings.
Sustainable Construction Practices
With new technologies, such as Building Information Modelling (BIM), drone technology, and 3D printing, construction companies can accurately measure and design sustainable buildings. BIM allows for efficient energy and resource management, reducing waste and optimizing construction materials. Similarly, drone technology can monitor the construction site, providing real-time data on the progress of the construction and identifying areas that need improvement. 3D printers reduce waste and costs by producing components on-site and providing additional flexibility in design.
Bottom Line
The construction industry is critical to the world’s growth and development, but it faces significant challenges that limit its growth, profitability, and sustainability. Technologies can bring a lot of accuracy and efficiency to the digitization journey, ensuring a virtually seamless construction process. In addition, by implementing the latest technologies, you will be able to overtake your competitors and become a leading company in the construction market.
