How the Digital Age has Begun to Transform the Construction Industry
We often read articles discussing the impact that digital technology has upon our daily lives. Common examples include the latest mobile phone applications, smart home appliances, and the influence of social media. However, we also need to remember that countless industries have been affected by this very same movement. Construction is no different, and it pays to examine some of the latest advancements.
Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer limited to clever chatbots and auto-complete online searches. Believe it or not, artificial intelligence is now being implemented by countless construction firms. AI can be used to analyse big data, to appreciate the needs of a target market, to predict on-site costs, and to highlight the latest industry trends. This very same information can then be leveraged to enact proactive changes when the time is right.
Lightning-Fast Production Methods
Another interesting observation comes in the form of prefabricated materials. For instance, a 3D construction company can now use cutting-edge software programs to rapidly produce materials such as printed concrete structures. Not only does this method lead to cost-effective solutions, but the sustainable nature of these approaches offers an environmentally friendly edge. Furthermore, customers can choose from a wide array of options; resulting in an impressive degree of flexibility when designing bespoke architecture and building it with a 3D cement printer, for example.
Augmented Reality
This next concept would have been considered fictional only a few years ago. However, augmented reality (AR) is indeed here to stay. One of the main purposes of AR is to provide construction companies with a virtual conceptualisation of a project before even breaking ground. An example will help to reinforce this point.
Imagine for a moment that a construction firm has recently been tasked with building a large bridge. The layout of this structure can be designed within the digital domain; resulting in three-dimensional model offering a “hands-on” appeal. It is even possible to analyse different portions to determine important metrics such as load, static stress, and the correct number of spans to ensure adequate structural support.
Yet Another Tool to Leverage
Although all of these advancements are impressive, we need to stress that “boots on the ground” are still required. Construction workers will not be replaced by autonomous robots any time soon. This is why skilled personnel are still required. However, there is no doubt that technology will continue to profoundly influence the entire sector. What might we witness in the future? We will have to wait and see.
