Exploring the Impact of Digital Technology in Construction
These days, you’d be hard-pressed to find an industry that isn’t undergoing some sort of transformation brought on by new technologies and innovations. The field of construction, particularly construction management, is no exception. As new technologies emerge, the scope of the construction manager’s job is also changing.
So, how exactly is technology transforming the construction management field as we know it, and what might the future of this industry look like?
The Digital Transformation of Construction Management
Like many major industries across the globe, the field of construction management is in the midst of what some experts would consider a digital transformation.
What Is Digital Transformation in Construction?
The digital transformation in construction relates to the integration of digital technologies and innovations into all areas of construction and construction site management. The use of these new technologies has begun to fundamentally change how projects are planned, managed, and executed in a number of ways.
Why Is Digital Transformation Essential for the Construction Industry?
While it is clear that the construction industry is in the middle of a digital transformation, there are some differing opinions regarding the potential impact that these changes could have on the industry as a whole.
At a basic level, new technologies and innovations in construction are expected to result in increased efficiency and productivity on construction sites and in project planning. This is especially true as more tasks can be automated by technologies. As a result of increased productivity, construction firms may see an increase in their overall profitability with new projects.
Meanwhile, digital technologies in construction are improving communication and collaboration among teams, making it easier to keep everybody on the same page at all times. This could reduce the risk of costly errors while enhancing overall decision-making within construction teams.
Finally, the implementation of digital technologies in construction management is expected to improve overall safety, quality, and sustainability practices. This is good news not just for workers and clients, but for entire populations. In several ways, construction firms that choose to adopt and embrace these new technologies can enjoy a competitive advantage in the market as a whole.
Key Technologies Reshaping Construction Management
Now that you have a better understanding of the potential impact of new technologies in construction, let’s dive into some examples of the innovations currently shaping the industry.
Construction Project Management Software
Construction project management software is now used by many construction firms and companies to streamline projects from start to finish. From the early stages of project planning and scheduling to budgeting, resource allocation, and reporting, these programs can keep projects on-track while saving teams valuable time. Some examples of popular construction project management programs on the market include:
- Procore
- Autodesk
- Construction Cloud
- PlanGrid
Building Information Modeling (BIM)
In recent years, the use of building information modeling (BIM) tools has also increased among construction firms. Specifically, these tools can create digital representations of entire buildings, which can in-turn facilitate improved collaboration and coordination among stakeholders. These kinds of tools can also be extremely useful when it comes to estimating costs and detecting potential clashes between building design and reality.
Construction Data Analytics
There’s no denying that we live in a data-driven world. With more data being collected than ever before, construction firms can utilize data analytics tools to identify trends, patterns, and other valuable insights with each project. These insights can then be used to improve overall decision-making in key areas like productivity, safety, and quality.
Data analytics tools like Power BI and Tableau can be especially useful for construction teams to visualize and analyze data.
Drones and Robotics
The use of drones and robotics has also become widespread in the construction industry, with many potential applications that range from site surveying and inspections to progress monitoring on larger projects. In the future, it is possible that we could even see robotics being used in construction for such tasks as bricklaying, welding, demolition, and more.
Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR)
In the construction field, it is also becoming common to see augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) used as tools to help clients and construction teams visualize final designs. These tools can also be extremely useful for providing realistic safety training. Popular AR and VR tools used in construction include Microsoft HoloLens and Oculus Rift, but new technologies are constantly emerging.
The Impact of Technology on Construction Management Practices
It’s no secret that technological innovations are changing the way construction teams operate, but what about construction managers specifically? From improvements in project planning to enhanced communication, construction managers can use digital technologies to their advantage in a number of ways.
Improved Project Planning and Scheduling
Digital technologies, such as project management software, make it easier than ever for construction managers to plan projects more accurately with improved resource allocation and more realistic scheduling. This can keep projects on-track and on-budget.
Enhanced Collaboration and Communication
Cloud-based construction management programs and mobile apps are also making it possible for construction teams, including supervisors and managers, to facilitate real-time communication even when they’re not all physically on the job site at the same time. This improved communication and collaboration can help everybody stay on the same page and keep project timelines moving smoothly.
Data-Driven Decision-Making
Construction managers are also beginning to utilize construction data analytics tools to gain valuable insights on each project. These insights can then be used to make more confident and informed decisions based on real-time data and historical trends.
Increased Efficiency and Productivity
Many emerging technologies in construction are making it possible to automate repetitive and time-consuming tasks that previously had to be done manually. This can help optimize workflows while reducing instances of human error. Meanwhile, entire construction projects can run more efficiently and productively while valuable time is freed up for other essential tasks.
Challenges and Opportunities in the Digital Transformation of Construction
As new digital technologies continue to emerge, the construction industry will face ongoing challenges and opportunities in its adoption of these innovations. So, what are some of the things construction managers and aspiring construction managers need to keep in mind when it comes to implementing new technologies on job sites?
Cybersecurity Threats
One of the most serious potential challenges that construction managers will need to consider before adopting new technologies is that of cybersecurity threats. Unfortunately, cybersecurity attacks have been on the rise for years, with more than 343 million falling victim to attacks in 2023 alone.
In construction, there are risks associated with storing sensitive project data in the cloud, especially if this information falls into the wrong hands. With this in mind, it has never been more important for construction companies to have strong cybersecurity plans and a solid infrastructure in place.
Skills Gap
Another potential obstacle that construction firms may face when implementing new technologies is the skills gap that currently exists in the industry. As new technologies are adopted, construction professionals will need to be prepared to upskill and deskill to effectively use these technologies. This can be a costly undertaking for some construction companies, so it’s crucial to work training and education into the budget.
Integration and Interoperability
Unfortunately, new software doesn’t always mesh well with existing software or systems. When this occurs, there may be issues when it comes to operability or the exchange of data. With this in mind, construction site managers and other decision-makers need to do careful research ahead of time to ensure the technologies they are choosing to implement will work well with existing systems. Often, this may require consulting with an IT expert or similar professional.
Cost and Return on Investment (ROI)
Adopting new technologies in construction isn’t always cheap. From the initial costs associated with purchasing new software or equipment to ongoing maintenance or subscription costs, these expenses can add up quickly. Because of this, it is important for construction managers to carefully track and measure return on investment (ROI) metrics with each new technology adopted. This way, it is possible to determine whether the investment is justified.
The Future of Technology in Construction Management
Only time will tell what the future of technology in construction management looks like. However, there are some trends and innovations that seem to be on the horizon and that could continue to transform construction management as we know it.
Trends and Innovations to Watch
Some specific innovations to watch for in construction management in the coming years include:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning – Could be used to prevent cost overruns, improve building designs, conduct project feasibility studies, and much more.
- 3D Printing and Modular Construction – As 3D printing technology continues to improve, it may soon be possible to use 3D printing in the creation of modular construction while minimizing supply costs.
- Sustainable Construction Technologies – New technologies, such as integrated environmental assessments and even construction robots are making it possible to complete projects more efficiently and sustainably than ever.
- Blockchain for Supply Chain Management – In the coming years, blockchain could be used to verify construction materials and processes while improving the efficiency of compliance practices.
Advance Your Education With a Construction Management Degree
Even though technologies and innovations continue to change the scope of construction management roles, the reality is that there remains a steady demand for experienced and knowledgeable construction managers to oversee projects from start to finish. In fact, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data, the job outlook for construction managers in the United States is projected to grow by five percent between 2022 and 2032, which is faster than the average for all occupations.
If you’re interested in a career in construction management, pursuing a formal degree can be an excellent steppingstone. Specifically, a master’s degree in construction management from Texas A&M University can provide you with the essential knowledge and skills you need to take the lead in project construction. In the interim, this program is offered entirely online for your convenience.
Reach out to request more information about Texas A&M’s construction management master’s degree program, or get started with your online application today.
