Connected construction uses technology to improve the efficiency, speed and cost of complex construction projects. Candea Development explains that while there are many different applications, these generally share one goal: to connect teams, information and processes across the project life cycle.
Benefits of connected construction
- Provide real-time updates of projects. Project management tools ensure that all team members have the latest plans, RFIs or other critical updates. They can adjust their work and timelines accordingly. Managers can also track the project’s progress and make faster and more accurate decisions.
- Seamless communication. Before, teams and suppliers would use different tools and platforms to store or analyze their project data. Sharing information took time, and often led to duplication of tasks and human error. Connected construction provides a centralized hub for easier and faster communication and collaboration.
- Lower project costs. Connected construction aligns different teams and stakeholders on the project goals and requirements. This minimizes unnecessary costs from conflict, rework, mistakes and miscommunication, and delays. Managers can also track spending in real time and troubleshoot areas that can go overbudget.
- Faster completion. Many construction projects stall or get delayed because of late materials, poor coordination, or missed details. Because of better coordination and transparency, even large and complicated projects with teams in different regions can pass through one phase to another with minimal issues.
Examples of connected construction
Here are some examples of connected construction technology, and how it can improve project speed, safety and quality.
Powerful software can gather and analyze historical data to predict outcomes, calculate risks and even lower costs. For example, it can identify the idle time of trucks, or which subcontractors are always behind schedule. It can also pinpoint the areas or phases where changes can have the most impact in operational efficiency.
Drones equipped with high-resolution cameras can conduct site surveys and render interactive 3D maps or give safety reports. This is faster, more accurate and safer than sending a ground crew—especially in hard-to-reach areas.
Internet of Things
Sensors that can detect abnormal vibration, motion or noise in a site can help identify malfunction equipment or dangerous areas in a site, and thus minimize accidents. These can also be embedded inside concrete to monitor compressive strength, or at different areas on the site to monitor temperature, humidity, water levels, and soil conditions.
Software can monitor machine downtime, and wearables can help track worker movement and do work analysis, so the project leader can get a “daily update” even without being on site.
This new technology can be used to create 3D models, or to perform safety trials and site walkthroughs.
Designers and engineers can use 3D data to create building profiles or components in real time. This allows project managers and teams to see how the structures progress across different construction phase. Through data aggregation in a digital dashboard, all team members can give timely status updates.
The future of construction
Connected construction empowers teams with the information and the tools to work more efficiently. As a Deloitte study said, “Investing in digital and connected technology construction firms can realize throughout the project life cycle.”