There are many reasons to invest in the best tools and technologies for construction companies. The right tools can improve costs, scheduling, and project efficiency. Technology can help with planning and execution, providing something closer to guaranteeing that a project will be delivered to the client on time and under budget.
In a growing collection of technology being utilized in construction, here is the tech that every construction company should know about.
Laser Scanning
Laser scanning can capture accurate site measurements with high-precision mapping tools. Reduce manual survey time and minimize errors during construction with the most accurate measurements.
Geographic Information Systems
GIS, or Geographic Information Systems, evaluates a site for construction suitability. This type of technology uses terrain, zoning, and resource data. GIS reduces the risk of project delays or redesigns and allows for the most efficient land-use planning.
Virtual Reality
Operate with VR remotely. Tap into data from digital elements, sounds, and sensations on-site from anywhere. Be able to zoom in on any location virtually through virtual reality apps. Engage in a multi-dimensional view of your construction project.
Smart Construction Equipment
Use smart tech to monitor heavy equipment performance, maintenance schedules, and more. Proactively inspect the equipment as needed.
Building Information Modeling
BIM, a form of 3D modelling software, is frequently mentioned on any construction technology list. Create virtual models of projects. From there, you and other stakeholders can make changes, estimate costs and scheduling, and comprehensively view what you’re about to build.
Explore plumbing, electrical, masonry, and engineering systems. Also, complete risk analyses and assessments using Building Information Modeling systems.
Modular Construction Technology
Modular construction techniques, or pre-fabrication, can reduce construction costs by as much as 25%. They allow a company to produce parts of a project off-site, transporting them to where workers can assemble them.
Construction Management Software
Construction management software can help companies monitor costs, scheduling, labour, and procurement. They enable you to input all sorts of data and auto-generate reports and analyses. Save time. Reduce errors. Maximize your operational efficiency when you oversee a project.
Cloud Computing Software
Cloud software hosts files and documents remotely, enabling them to be shared and accessed from anywhere. Cloud computing enables contractors to communicate with stakeholders, receive approvals, and share reports.
Construction-Specific CRM
A construction-specific CRM helps you track leads and client interactions. This feature is already built into some construction management software, but not all of it. Using a CRM ensures client needs are continually met.
Construction Site Drones
Drones have saved projects millions of dollars by allowing companies to safely and thoroughly survey a site. From a bird’s eye view, conduct safety analyses, monitor work progress, and more. Perform site and land surveys. Safely access hard-to-reach spots. There is a lot one can do with drones.
Autonomous Self-Driving Heavy Equipment
Autonomous heavy equipment and robotics may help your company address labour shortages. These machines are consistent, do not require supervision, and can be programmed to perform repetitive tasks.
Thermal Imaging Cameras
Thermal imaging cameras can inspect a site for hidden issues, detect heat anomalies in structures, spot leaks, and identify insulation gaps. They can be highly valuable on high-risk construction projects.
Construction Safety Wearables
Safety wearables monitor worker movements, proactively identify site hazards and more. Monitor workers’ vital signs. Use smart helmets to monitor brain activity, including signs of microsleep. Use safety vests or exosuits to enhance safety on-site. Boots can detect falls through pressure impact monitoring. Smart eyeglasses can provide cues to safety hazards. Team wearables with GPS tracking to ensure workers are where they need to be.
AI Software
In construction, AI is being used predominantly in predictive analysis and automating administrative tasks.
Predictive analysis can help forecast project risks and potential delays. Additionally, AI can automate administrative tasks, streamlining budget monitoring, regulatory compliance tracking, and more.
Augmented Reality
Using AR, you can overlay a digital model over a physical space to visualize a completed project in real time. This technology reduces ambiguity during the design phase and gives stakeholders the information they need to make fast, informed choices.
IoT-Enabled Sensors
Track temperature, air pressure, and humidity to identify current site conditions. Sensors can provide early warnings for equipment wear and help monitor various assets and performance tasks.
Fleet Management Sensors
If you run a fleet, sensors and fleet management software are necessary. GPS tracking and usage reports can help you monitor maintenance needs, reduce downtime, and better care for your equipment and assets.
3D Printing
3D printing can produce materials made from concrete, polymer, metal, and more. It minimizes waste, increases the speed of construction, improves design flexibility, and saves on cost. More 3D printing is occurring than ever in construction, creating everything from small custom components to concrete blocks, foundation walls, and entire structures.