The role of technology in creating construction jobs

Technology is taking a progressively prevailing role in the construction sector. From improving design capabilities to digitalising paper-based data and information, during the last decade or so, construction companies have been increasingly embracing digital solutions.

By turning to technology, construction operators can improve productivity, enhance the safety of sites, and reduce costs. New technologies and modernised processes are being integrated into business models.

Here we take a look at the technology being integrated by construction companies, the benefits it brings to operations, and in creating construction jobs

Building Information Modelling (BIM)

Building Information Modelling (BIM) is a process that many architects are using to design and construct buildings. The process comprises of a number of methods and tools, with the aim of making each stage of design and construction as safe, efficient and cost-effective as possible.

Architects use BIM authoring tools to make comprehensive 3D models of a structure, which they can experiment and identify potential issues prior to committing to a specific design. The information is stored in a shared location, such as on cloud-based software, so everyone involved in the project can have access to it. As a result, the models and estimates can be used to identify the most efficient construction workflow for the project.

When the construction team work on the building, they can revisit the model or workflow at any time, to make any necessary adjustments.

Due to increasing demand for BIM solutions, BIM professionals are highly sought-after within the industry to carry out projects and operations for construction firms.

AR, VR and wearables

Artificial Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) are being adopted by the construction industry as a means of improving the safety on building sites by introducing employees to environments in ‘risk free’ training.

Wearing VR headsets, multiple users involved on a project can interact within the same virtual environment, regardless of their location. Subsequently, issues can be identified, and changes made to the design of a building, for construction begins.

This type of technology can also improve communication, as important information can be shared via hands-free wearables. Smart glasses provide a quick, efficient, and accurate way to identify, view, update and share information on a construction site.

Individuals with VR, AR and robotics knowledge are playing a key role in transforming construction projects, making them safer and operations more efficient.

Robotics

A survey commissioned of 1,900 large and small construction businesses, found 81% says they plan to introduce or increase the use of robotics and automation in the next decade.

Robots can help minimise skill shortage problems. Though rather than replacing humans, they can create demand for new types of skilled workers.

Employing robotics to a building site to carry out tasks such as material handling and onsite wielding, can help enhance productivity and safety. Not only can workflow be improved but, in reducing human interaction on sites, errors can be reduced.

Drones

From real-time data recording to providing unique aerial views, drones can help construction companies cost costs, improve efficiency, and streamline workflow.

Consulting topographic maps, which provide a detailed and accurate illustration of man-made and natural features on the ground, is vital when planning large-scale and complex construction projects, helping reduce expensive mistakes in creating designs for unsuitable land. With their ability to exponentially reduce time spent visualising a site’s topography, drones are being used in topographic mapping and land surveys.

Drones can also be used to quickly assess whether a piece of equipment needs to be on a site and where it should be located. Equipment malfunction can also prove costly and time-consuming in construction projects. Drones can be used to record functionality of equipment and to identify issues remotely.

As construction becomes increasing reliant on technology and digitalised processes, companies must adapt to new ways of working to remain competitive. As such, more technically adept professionals, managers and leaders, are now in high demand on a range of construction jobs.