Saturday, April 27, 2024 
Saturday, April 27, 2024
October 8, 2023
A look at the world of Construction Technology – by Arnie Gess, publisher of Construction Links Network
Editorial submission deadline is every Tuesday – end of day. Ideal for news releases, blogs, podcasts, upcoming webinars, case studies, whitepapers and videos. Always free for members – see media kit.
Technology is transforming every aspect of the construction industry, from design and planning to project management and execution. As new tools and techniques continue to emerge, it’s more important than ever for professionals in the field to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and innovations. This blog series offers in-depth coverage of the most important developments in construction technology. Whether you’re interested in the latest software platforms, the newest building materials, or the cutting-edge research shaping the future of the industry, you’ll find it all here.
Technology is transforming the way we plan, build, and operate construction projects. Most AEC firms recognize the need to implement new technologies but with so many options available, it can be difficult to know where to begin. SoftwareOne Canada recently sat down with two of their AEC industry consultants, Rainier Gonzalez and Diego Nieto Tomillo, to shed some light on this topic and kick off their “Ask the experts” blog series.
B2W Software, a Trimble company providing estimating and operations software for heavy construction, was named one of the Top Construction Technology FirmsTM for 2023, marking the third year in a row the company has received this distinguished honor. Construction Executive(CE) magazine, a publication of the Associated Builders and Contractors, manages the annual recognition program. The comprehensive list of top firms is published in CE’s September/October 2023 issue. Construction Executive developed the Top Construction Technologies Firms list by carefully scrutinizing data submitted by more than 1,000 firms that provide technology and software solutions to the architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) industry.
In a project-based industry where countless resources, time, and labor are invested, construction site theft can lead to devastating repercussions when firms and contractors are caught underprepared. Studies show that theft alone costs the U.S. construction industry up to $1 billion a year in losses. Not even counting the cost of vandalism and other crimes that can occur on jobsites, construction site theft is a lingering problem that not only costs firms precious resources, but also endangers equipment and workers. Construction sites come in all shapes and sizes, but contractors and project managers can look to building a basic security and monitoring kit with the following solutions discussed in this blog, courtesy of TrueLook Construction Cameras.
Equipment inspections keep people safe, equipment on the job and maintenance costs low. For many contractors, this routine process gets bogged down by paper forms and a slow, inefficient handoff of information from employees inspecting machines to employees scheduling and completing repairs. With the B2W Software platform, contractors can make repairs faster and more efficiently by completing inspections electronically and generating accurate, detailed repair requests automatically. Learn more and watch the video.
Field Materials, a prominent AI-powered material purchasing software company, has introduced an innovative invoice verification module for general and specialty contractors. This module offers significant benefits, including a 90% reduction in invoice processing time through the elimination of manual tasks and the identification of billing errors, resulting in 5-10% cost savings on materials. Integrated with Field Materials’ existing Quotes and Orders modules, it provides contractors with a comprehensive procurement platform that manages quotes, buyouts, orders, and invoices in one system.
Graphisoft, a leading Building Information Modeling (BIM) software developer, has unveiled its latest product lineup with significant updates to Archicad, BIMcloud, BIMx, and DDScad. These enhancements result from user input through a Technology Preview Program and include a new design option solution, professional visualization tools, improved project management, and advanced multidisciplinary design collaboration.
Teleo, a company specializing in autonomous technology for heavy construction equipment, recently announced its partnership with Tomahawk Construction, making them the first customer to deploy autonomous capabilities on an active job site in Naples, Florida. Tomahawk Construction’s articulated dump trucks will utilize autonomous functions to transport materials for a residential community construction project, starting in December. Additionally, Teleo revealed deals with eight new construction customers, collectively placing orders for 42 machines. The company is expanding its dealer network, including Ozark Laser, Murphy Tractor, and Position Partners, and introducing supervised autonomy, allowing remote operators to control multiple Teleo-equipped machines from a command center. Teleo’s technology aims to address labor shortages and enhance safety and efficiency in the construction industry.
A recent independent study commissioned by Planera, a visual scheduling and planning solution for construction, reveals that while the construction industry is experiencing significant growth, it faces challenges with legacy tools and workforce recruitment. The Construction Tech and Workforce Report surveyed over 200 construction industry leaders in the United States, highlighting that 90% consider tech modernization crucial, but 37% struggle to find skilled individuals for technology integration. Additionally, 66% find their current scheduling solutions too complex, leading to potential project losses and reduced profits for 31% of respondents. Despite 89% prioritizing investments in construction planning tools, talent acquisition remains a significant obstacle, with 27% citing difficulties in finding skilled personnel.
Newforma showcased its rebranded identity and introduced the cloud-hosted Newforma Konekt platform at the Newforma World user conference in Chandler, Arizona. Alongside peer-led education sessions, workshops, and keynote speeches on inclusive collaboration and team equipping, attendees gained access to Newforma Konekt, which integrates design collaboration, issue management, and BIM coordination with document handling and project completion tasks. Carl Veillette, Chief Product Officer, described Konekt as an interconnected ecosystem that streamlines construction processes, empowering stakeholders to collaborate effectively. The platform synchronizes with existing software tools, eliminating communication challenges and tedious tasks. Newforma’s rebranding emphasizes its commitment to innovation and connected project delivery, reinforcing the importance of centralized project information management.
Colliers, a prominent real estate advisor, has introduced its AI-powered platform, CoGence, which aims to enhance construction efficiency. CoGence detects anomalies at construction sites, resulting in a 79% reduction in project delays, 91% early defect detection, and 91% savings on site visits. With 99.9% accuracy, it offers precise automated quantification, allowing users to download as-builts in 2D and 3D and manage them with Autodesk products. This technology aligns with Colliers’ commitment to invest in tech platforms, allocating 5% of EBITDA for this purpose. The firm acknowledges the importance of technology in the construction industry, aiming to deliver customized and productive solutions.
Graitec Group, a leading software developer in the construction and manufacturing industries and a Platinum Autodesk partner, has introduced GRAITEC Data Connect, a cutting-edge cloud application. This unified platform aims to empower construction professionals by seamlessly integrating data from various sources, including project management and ERP systems. In an era where data integration is crucial, this cloud application bridges the gap and enables real-time access to information for project managers, finance teams, and stakeholders, ultimately enhancing decision-making, productivity, and project outcomes. The application’s innovative approach allows for the synchronization of data across multiple systems, optimizing operations, fostering collaboration, and facilitating data-driven decision-making.
Bentley Systems, Infotech, and the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) have launched an initiative to enhance digital delivery for transportation departments. Their collaboration aims to modernize project delivery processes, leading to improved project outcomes such as streamlined design-to-construction processes, higher data quality, and better communication of design intent. They are working with the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) on a digital delivery proof of concept to enhance digital collaboration between design and construction. This effort involves integrating and extending design and construction contract systems of record, advancing industry best practices for data federation, and optimizing pay-item data during design and pre-construction processes. The goal is to automate and streamline various aspects of project delivery, reducing manual efforts and enhancing data flow across systems and workflows.
The Siksika Nation has commenced construction using 3D concrete printing technology to create four fourplexes, comprising a total of 16 transitional housing units. The project, known as Kakatoosoyiists, is located near Calgary and is the largest 3D concrete-printed housing initiative in Alberta. The 3D printer operates on-site, laying the exterior walls on top of a concrete foundation. This innovative construction project aims to address housing crises within the Nation, offering support for members experiencing difficulties, such as unaffordable rents or domestic violence. It also has the potential to pave the way for future 3D-printed housing projects within the community, incorporating Blackfoot knowledge and sustainable construction practices.
