How is IoT Transforming the Construction Sector?

Construction Tech Review | Monday, October 14, 2019

The integration of IoT technology will empower the construction sector to shed the archaic processes and achieve significant productivity gains.

FREMONT, CA: The construction industry dates back to the coliseums of Rome and the pyramids of Egypt. However, its progress has been rather stagnant when compared to other sectors. The recent years have witnessed steady incorporation of technology to enhance operations and augment performance.

For many years, the construction industry has witnessed low productivity. The challenges faced by the sector include the high cost of materials, restrictive regulations, and other compliance issues. One of the reasons for the lag can be attributed to the reluctance of construction organizations to invest in technology. Also, the fragmentation hinders the seamless exchange of information among the building firms.

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Digitalization can empower the construction industry to move beyond its archaic practices. The 3D modeling facilitated by building information technology (BIM) can bring high efficiency into the sector, empowering engineers, architects, and builders to collaborate seamlessly. The adoption of cloud computing will enable the active exchange of information and provide access to architects, developers, contractors, and subcontractors.

Robust BIM systems have enabled builders to incorporate additional dimensions and aspects into planning, including cost, operation, and project management. The adoption of the internet of things (IoT) enables the deployment of low power sensors for cost-effective communication. IoT will enable the organizations to introduce visibility into every stage of the construction process.

The adoption of technology becomes imperative as the new generation of workers enter the landscape, not only to improve safety and efficiency, but also to bolster productivity. Robust IoT frameworks can facilitate innovative training programs for the employees. Smartphone apps, tablets, and wearable technology can be leveraged to deliver the content more efficiently.

The incorporation of IoT, combined with automation techniques, will enable organizations to introduce factory-like landscape at the construction sites, enhancing safety as well as productivity. Augmented reality (AR) technology can be leveraged to provide digital guidance and advice to the workers. The implementation of sensors will pave the way for connected smart sites that enable the seamless exchange of data.

The simplified data exchange facilitated by IoT will promote greater collaboration between owners, contractors, architects, and other members of the construction teams. It can provide access to robust information systems, including 3D drawings, job costs, and other unstructured data. It will not only eliminate change orders but will also aid in building trust among the collaborators. The data generated by IoT systems, and software infrastructures, such as BIM, ERP, and PMS, can be consolidated and stored. The availability of accurate information will reduce errors and eliminate rectification at later stages.

IoT can significantly enhance productivity, empowering construction organizations to meet the deadlines and targets. By facilitating seamless and quick communication between the owners and contractors, organizations can ensure the enhancement of project delivery and customer satisfaction. Leveraging technology to automate the scheduling process will enable them to streamline the supply of materials.

The incorporation of technology will enable optimization of energy usage, including power and fuel, thus lowering the overall cost of the project. The access to real-time information facilitated by IoT sensors allows the organization to track the status of all the assets, not only to schedule maintenance operations but also to manage the equipment. The sensors can also be used to monitor the sustainability of the construction equipment.

An increasing number of organizations in the construction sector are leveraging technology to address the challenges of productivity and efficiency. It is empowering them to enhance responsiveness and seamlessly meet the requirements of clients, thus ensuring maximum customer satisfaction. IoT is becoming an essential asset to the construction sector, enabling organizations to establish their presence in the marketplace.

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