compiled by Arnie Gess, president of Construction Links Network.

Welcome to your weekly dose of construction technology insights powered by Construction Links Network. Every week, we dive into the tools, trends, and tech that are reshaping how our industry builds smarter, faster, and more sustainably. Whether you’re on the jobsite or in the boardroom, this blog is your reliable resource for staying current with innovations in software, materials, AI, robotics, BIM, and more.

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As workforce shortages continue to challenge construction companies across the U.S. and Canada, the demand for digital inspection software is rapidly increasing. With more than 80% of firms struggling to find skilled labor, according to the AGC 2024 Workforce Survey, many job sites are turning to mobile inspection tools to maintain quality, safety, and compliance. These platforms—such as SnapInspect—enable teams to complete inspections, capture time-stamped photos, generate reports, and manage checklists in real time, even when staffing is limited. In both residential and infrastructure projects, digital inspection apps are helping reduce errors, improve communication, and ensure consistent documentation for regulators and insurers. As labor gaps persist, industry analysts expect continued growth in the adoption of construction inspection software as a long-term solution to workforce limitations and increasing oversight demands.

BuildingPoint Midwest has launched BuildOne Partners, a new company designed to deliver a full suite of Trimble software solutions for the AECO (Architecture, Engineering, Construction, and Owner) industries. This strategic move includes the acquisition of Source One Solutions, a leading Viewpoint Vista software provider known for its ERP expertise and client-first approach. By combining BuildingPoint’s leadership in construction technology with Source One’s deep ERP knowledge, BuildOne Partners becomes a premier, end-to-end Trimble software partner. The new entity will offer integrated solutions covering preconstruction to closeout, including platforms like Viewpoint Vista, Spectrum, ProjectSight, WinEst, and Accubid. Paul Krieger, founder of Source One, joins BuildOne’s leadership team to support long-term continuity and growth. The partnership enhances BuildingPoint’s ability to help contractors modernize workflows, optimize operations, and build smarter.

Unanet, a leader in AI-first ERP and growth software for project-based businesses, has expanded internationally with the launch of its award-winning CRM solution for construction firms in the United Kingdom. In partnership with Algorithms Software UK, the developer of the Xpedeon construction ERP platform, Unanet CRM will now be available to architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) companies across the U.K. This integration creates a seamless connection from business development to project delivery by combining Unanet’s powerful CRM tools with Xpedeon’s robust ERP capabilities. U.K. AEC firms can now manage client relationships, proposals, and opportunities more effectively, eliminate departmental silos, and gain real-time visibility into both pipeline and project performance. With AI-driven insights and unified workflows, this collaboration enables faster, more informed decision-making and supports sustainable business growth. The move reflects Unanet’s broader international growth strategy and its commitment to delivering connected, data-driven solutions tailored to the unique needs of the construction industry.

Billy, the leading construction compliance platform, has earned multiple 2025 awards from Capterra, GetApp, and Software Advice, based entirely on verified customer reviews. Recognized for excellence in compliance management, user experience, and impactful results, Billy is transforming how construction teams handle certificates of insurance (COIs), vendor insurance, and documentation. Traditionally time-consuming and error-prone, these processes are streamlined through Billy’s intuitive platform, which automates COI collection, tracks expiration dates, centralizes vendor data, and integrates seamlessly with tools like Procore, Sage, Autodesk, and more. Users consistently praise Billy’s ease of use, strong customer service, and ability to reduce compliance delays while increasing operational efficiency. The platform empowers project admins, finance teams, and risk managers to maintain control, eliminate manual tracking, and avoid costly compliance gaps. Billy’s continued recognition across all three Gartner Digital Markets platforms underscores its commitment to solving real-world challenges in construction compliance and delivering a system that makes staying compliant simpler, faster, and more reliable for every team.

The Government of Canada has launched its first public Artificial Intelligence (AI) Register, a significant milestone in its AI Strategy to promote transparency, accountability, and responsible technology use across federal institutions. Announced by the Honourable Shafqat Ali, President of the Treasury Board, the Register provides Canadians with detailed insights into over 400 AI systems currently in use, development, or exploration across 42 government departments. It includes information such as each system’s purpose, development origin, and usage status. This initiative enhances public visibility into how AI supports operations, service delivery, and innovation in government, while helping departments avoid duplication and plan more efficiently. As part of a commitment to continuous improvement, public consultations will be held in 2026 to gather feedback and refine the Register’s usability. The AI Register underscores Canada’s leadership in ethical AI adoption in the public sector and reflects its broader vision for a modern, digitally enabled government focused on maximizing value and service for Canadians.

Generative AI adoption in Canadian workplaces has grown to 51% in 2025, according to KPMG’s latest Generative AI Adoption Index. While usage is rising, the report reveals a growing gap between adoption and support, as many employees feel undertrained and overwhelmed. Nearly 83% of workers say they need to upskill in generative AI, yet only 48% find current training effective. Over one-third of respondents say they’ve paused or avoided using AI tools due to feeling too busy or uncertain about new workflows. Additionally, 58% are concerned about inaccuracies in AI responses, with 46% admitting this limits their usage at work. KPMG urges organizations to implement clear AI policies, offer personalized and role-relevant training, and promote AI literacy to reduce fear and boost productivity. Nearly 80% of users report increased productivity, with over half using saved time for higher-value tasks. Yet, only 29% of employees say their workplace has a comprehensive AI policy. The report stresses that successful AI integration depends not on tech-savviness, but on adaptability and strategic, sector-specific use.

The University of Windsor has broken ground on Canada’s first 3D-printed multi-storey residential building, marking a major step in the fight against Ontario’s housing shortage. Located at 1025 California Ave., the seven-unit student residence will also serve as a research facility for the university’s engineering faculty. Funded by $2 million from FedDev Ontario and supported by Printerra Inc. and Desjardins Ontario Credit Union, the project aims to demonstrate how additive construction can reduce building time and costs while supporting net-zero goals. Using large-scale concrete 3D printing, researchers will study the structure’s durability, energy performance, and scalability. As Ontario struggles to meet its reduced housing targets—now forecasting just 40% of its 2026 goal—the Windsor pilot offers a promising alternative for accelerating construction. City officials and academic leaders say the project showcases the power of innovation and cross-sector collaboration to address affordability and supply challenges. Windsor’s broader plan includes intensifying residential development across four square kilometres, targeting 13,000 new homes by 2031. If successful, the 3D-printed residence could become a model for future housing solutions across Canada.

Manitoba has launched its first-ever LiDAR and extended-reality (xR) training program, marking a major step in integrating advanced technology into traditional industries like construction. Delivered by the Manitoba Construction Sector Council and New Media Manitoba, the program equips participants with hands-on skills in drone operations, LiDAR scanning, and immersive xR design. The inaugural cohort—featuring construction workers, students, emergency responders, and tech professionals—completed the intensive three-day course at StudioLab xR in Winnipeg. Backed by provincial funding as part of a $219,000-per-year initiative, the training addresses a growing skills gap and prepares Manitobans for high-demand careers in construction, surveying, digital media, and environmental monitoring. Participants receive a Certificate of Completion and top performers gain internship opportunities. Industry leaders say the integration of drone-based LiDAR can reduce survey time by 80% and cut costs up to 50%, while also offering powerful applications for Indigenous communities in land and cultural preservation. With high demand expected, registration is now open for the next intake in January 2026. This program positions Manitoba as a national leader in construction tech innovation.

Gravis Robotics, a Zurich-based startup transforming heavy construction machinery into autonomous robots, has raised $23 million to scale operations across the U.K., U.S., and EU. Backed by IQ Capital, Zacua Ventures, and others, Gravis aims to address the construction industry’s growing labor shortage by retrofitting excavators and loaders with AI, sensors, and remote-control capabilities. As demand surges for renewable infrastructure, data centers, and housing, the shortage of skilled operators poses major challenges. Gravis’ technology enhances safety, reduces injury risks, and attracts younger talent by replacing joysticks with touchscreen tablets for remote or semi-autonomous control. Their autonomous systems are already active in seven countries, partnering with global firms like Holcim and Taylor Woodrow. With a construction automation market projected to grow from $8.8 billion in 2023, Gravis is well-positioned for impact. Unlike fully unmanned systems, Gravis supports hybrid autonomy—boosting productivity while keeping humans in the loop. The funding will expand its machine fleet and deepen industry partnerships, bringing scalable, real-world automation to construction sites worldwide.