by Serge Bojinski

The residential construction industry as a whole has been notoriously slow in integrating new technologies into the day-to-day operations. Even if the home builder adopted modern processes into its system, getting all trade contractors to buy in was challenging if not impossible. This led to fragmented data transmission with some obtaining spec/selection packages digitally while others maintaining an “old-school approach” through the mail or in-person. The end result— slower communication, potential for human error, reduced efficiency, and a negatively impacted bottom line.

Today, the most productive and profitable builders have embraced current technologies like construction management software, building information modeling (BIM), drones, internet of things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), robotics and automation, and cloud computing.

Surprisingly, the pandemic accelerated remote work practices and the use of cloud-based digital tools. The worldwide lockdown of all non-essential companies and employees created industry-wide disruptions to on-site work, supply chains, and project timelines. To overcome these obstacles, home builders turned to software solutions. The lack of physical contact meant that remote collaborations, virtual meetings, and cloud-based project management tools took the forefront and were in demand. This flexibility provided a great option for home builders to keep business moving during the shutdown so they were ready to start construction once restrictions were lifted.

While the pandemic is over, the digital transformation is here to stay.

New technologies are being introduced and widely used in construction management today. The global construction market has seen growth in the industry with new developments in construction methods, technology and software innovations, as well as a variety of other market trends. Worldwide investments in the infrastructure, energy and utility sectors are suggesting that the global construction market will grow by $8 trillion by 2030 with China, the United States, and India emerging as leading contributors. According to another study, global construction output is projected to surge by 85%, reaching a total of $15.5 trillion by the year 2030.

Construction management software solutions provide a centralized platform for managing various aspects of construction projects. These software tools typically include features for project scheduling, document management, project budgeting and cost control, resource allocation, and communication. The benefits of construction management software include streamlining project workflows, enhancing communication and collaboration, and improving overall project efficiency. Integration between different software systems promote business expansion with a reduction in process duplication, smoother data exchange, identify bottlenecks, track key performance indicators and milestones, and monitoring of real-time project monitoring.

Leading residential construction companies have embraced implementation of construction management software. While the initial financial investment can be formidable, the benefits and rewards can be game changing. Graphical Research Powered by GMI projects the construction management software market will expand rapidly and hit $10 billion by 2032. Those home builders that are slow adopters may be left behind.

BIM is a fast-growing 3D modeling and visualization technology that enables the creation of precise models of a construction project. BIM facilitates collaboration among project stakeholders, improves design coordination, and helps in detecting and resolving conflicts before construction begins.

There are numerous benefits of BIM in construction which are identifying this as a ground-breaking emerging technology:

·  Accurate jobsite data, which improves the quality of information shared between project managers and other team members.

·  Prefab and modular construction opportunities with collaboration between designers, fabricators, and contractors.

·  Alleviate risk, reduce costs, and improve budget management through BIM automation tools.

·  Safer construction sites by identifying potential hazards and physical risks.

·  Generates automated 2D takeoffs for faster, more accurate material orders and value engineering.

·  Manage project information in one place through a cloud-based, common data environment.

The most-recent Dodge Data & Analytics report describes Building Information Modeling at a tipping point and a key factor in digital transformation across the construction industry.

The majority of BIM-using companies are now utilizing the technology on over half of their projects.

AR and VR technologies are revolutionizing construction project visualization, design review, and training processes. AR allows users to overlay digital information, such as architectural models or equipment data, onto the physical environment, while VR immerses users in a fully digital environment. Tools such as 360-degree virtual tours and rendered layouts are leading sales presentation methods allowing potential homeowners the opportunity to see a variety of home styles and floor plans before their home is ever built.

These technologies enable all members of the construction company to experience and interact with projects virtually, enhancing design understanding, improving collaboration, and identifying potential design flaws early on.

AR technology allows workers to remotely walk off-site team members through a construction site to collaborate on proposed repairs and/or troubleshoot issues that arise during construction.

Training programs administered through a VR system can allow trainees to practice appropriate jobsite safety to reduce the risk of injury and labor costs. Online programs reduce the need to send workers away for weeks of training, allowing them to get to work faster.

Drones are increasingly used in construction management for surveying, site inspections, and progress monitoring. They can quickly capture aerial imagery, create accurate topographic maps, and generate 3D models of construction sites. Drones enable project managers to obtain real-time data, identify potential issues, and monitor progress, thus improving project oversight and decision-making.

Project management tools such as drones provide these advantages:

·  Time-saving technology for builders and land developers for remote areas.

·  Easier and less expensive to get in-depth aerial views of a home under construction or land development.

·  A drone can fly over an entire community in a few minutes vs. walking through rough, obstacle-laden property.

·  Capture images for marketing finished homes.

·  Conduct site inspections, monitor worker activity, and check inventory.

Mobile apps tailored for construction management offer on-the-go access to project information, communication tools, and real-time updates. Construction professionals can use these apps to track progress, manage tasks, access blueprints and documents, capture and share field data, and collaborate with team members from anywhere. Mobile apps help streamline project communication, improve efficiency, and reduce delays.

Extra features/benefits:

·  Time Tracking—employee/supervisor tracking, digital punch clock.

·  Liability and Compliance—process automation, integrations and notes.

·  GPS Management—location-based reminders, equipment GPS locations.

·  Job Costing—business processes automation for budget control, integrations and notes.

The IoT involves connecting various devices and sensors on construction sites to collect and transmit data in real-time. IoT applications in construction management include monitoring equipment performance, tracking inventory, automating workflows, and enhancing safety through wearable devices. IoT technologies provide valuable insights, enable predictive maintenance, and support data-driven decision-making.

Cloud-based platforms and collaboration tools facilitate secure data storage, access, and sharing among project management. Data is collected and stored online rather than being tied to a computer’s physical hard drive. These tools allow team members to collaborate on project documents, drawings, and specifications in real-time, regardless of their location. Cloud computing enhances data integrity, promotes collaboration, and enables seamless information exchange across project teams.

Benefits of cloud storage:

·  Increased efficiency and communication—with project data and field notes being stored in the cloud, accessing files from anywhere is quick and easy.

·  Real-time updates—all changes are made live so you’re always working with the most current data.

·  Safer workplaces—instant access to safety protocols and emergency procedures.

·  Reduced waste and environmental impact—products can be digitally tracked so supplies are used and nothing goes to waste. Construction companies can track and reduce their carbon footprint.

·  Improved quality—cloud-computing allows builders to construct homes to the correct specifications and identify potential problems before they become costly or time-consuming to repair.

·  Easier collaboration—teams can share information and tasks securely and efficiently. This streamlines the process and reduces mistakes.

·  Time savings—project management time is significantly reduced through faster planning; expense tracking allows for better budget adherence.

AI and ML technologies are being utilized to analyze vast amounts of construction data, automate repetitive tasks, and provide valuable insights. AI and ML algorithms can help predict project risks, optimize resource allocation, improve safety monitoring, and generate accurate cost and schedule estimates. These technologies enable construction managers to make data-driven decisions and enhance project outcomes.

Robotics and automation are playing an increasingly significant role in the construction industry, offering various benefits such as improved productivity, enhanced safety, and increased efficiency. This technology is still evolving but has the potential to revolutionize the industry by enabling the construction of innovative and sustainable structures.

Current technologies are revolutionizing construction management for home builders. While it is important to note that the adoption and implementation of these digital technologies may vary across construction companies and projects, it is equally important to understand that these advancements will further shape the construction industry in the future.

The overall investment of time and money for new innovations can be overwhelming, so it is critical to do thorough research into what will provide the best return on investment for your company. The implementation of construction management software should be the first step. This will help streamline software packages and can be built with additional components as the business expands.