What is Construction Technology?

How technology is changing the face of the Construction industry

What is Construction Technology, and why is it so important?

Construction technology is defined as a set of innovative tools that may be software, modifications, or machinery used to carry out construction projects. These tools are highly advanced, and they improve work speed and quality when put into use. Construction technology is of two types. Semi-automated and automated construction tools. These tools are used for different types of projects in the construction industry.

The technology keeps evolving as developers introduce new updates to make them more efficient. In recent times, these tools have come in handy in designing prefabricated materials, designing 3D structures, or even constructing eco-friendly residential houses or commercial buildings.

The effect of technology in the construction industry

Today, we see the positive effects technology innovations are having on the industry. Recent innovations have made the design and construction of taller, sturdier, and bigger buildings possible. The effect of technology is being felt across the industry worldwide, but if current trends are anything to go by, we are likely to witness an industry that will be hugely dependent on technology.

Types of active and emerging technology in the industry

Mobile technology

Mobile technology is now increasingly deployed at construction sites. Today, there are mobile apps that improve communication in ways we never thought possible only a few years ago. Integrating mobile technology into a conventional work platform improves efficiency and boosts the productivity of firms.

Intuitive drones

Drones are now widely deployed at building sites all over the world. Now, professionals can conduct site surveys on time and with minimal effort. Using high-resolution area imaging is another tool at the disposal of construction experts. Drones have the ability to reach altitudes far above project sites to monitor work progress.

AR technology

Augmented Reality technology is another remarkable advancement that has made a groundbreaking impact on the industry. What we can do with AR is indeed limitless. Designers can create realistic design patterns with AR and overlay on the real world. Structural defects can be identified with AR technology. Even some professionals use AR to create feasible project timelines and task allocation. The future of Augmented Reality only gets amplified by an ever increasing set of compatible sensors and systems.

3D Printing

In the past, construction companies had to source all the materials they needed for work. But with 3D printing, prefabricated parts can be designed and printed before onward transport to work sites. This has greatly reduced the hours required to complete tasks. 3D has also helped in the area of streamlining material processing for even better results.

Artificial Intelligence

AI has not been greatly implemented in the industry, but if the evidence is anything to go by, the situation is fast changing. As work robots become more efficient, accessible, and affordable to companies, tasks will be completed in less time. Already, there are robots developed to lay bricks and to interact with humans at work sites. The potential for AI in the industry is only just beginning to unravel.

IoT (Internet of Things)

Sensors such as RFID is an example of Hardware available for use in construction. IoT Hardware can be programmed into other systems or digital workflows. RFID technology utilizes a wireless system comprised of two components: Tags and Readers. When these systems are connected to external Data warehouses or a Project Management system, you will be able to set rules or notifications based on data from the RFID tool tracking system. For example if a tool is checked out by somebody who is not assigned to a group, a manager can instantly receive an email notification.

Benefits of Construction Technology

• Improved Productivity: Technology enables firms to improve productivity, especially offsite. Buildings, walkways, layouts, and terraces can be designed offsite then executed onsite. This leads to a drastic reduction in waste.
• Safety & Training: Safety and training are made possible in simulated environments. Trainees no longer have to be present at worksites to learn something new as everything can be taught or learned online or using VR technology. This protects trainees from learning in hazardous environments that they are not accustomed to.
• Labor utilization: Currently, many countries are grappling with the shortage of skilled workers that the industry heavily relies on. To bridge this gap, technology is deployed to allow firms to more with fewer hands onsite. This helps them save costs or avoid a labor crisis caused by labor shortages. Robots can be deployed to do what humans can. Although there are concerns about machines replacing labor in the workplace, technology helps to protect firms or industries that are lacking highly skilled professionals.

In this article, we have explained in clear terms what construction technology does and how it has positively impacted the industry. In light of concurrent changes in the industry, analysts believe that technology still has a lot more to give moving forward. We also expect that many more firms will deploy the technology on a grander scale to protect workers, increase productivity and profitability, and to reduce general project costs.

What construction technologies do you want implemented? Let us know in the comments section below.