If you work in the construction sector, as with any other industry, you will want to deliver to the highest possible standards while maintaining margins and keeping projects on track. Digital tools can help you achieve these goals.
What is digital construction?
Digital construction is a catch-all term that refers to using any digital technology to support your work. This might be in relation to creating efficiencies in your processes, improving collaboration between teams or embedding digital tools in structures to monitor them in real time.
While there are certain digital tools that have been in use for decades – such as computer aided design (CAD) and computer aided manufacturing (CAM), there are many new innovations that can support construction firms at every stage of a project.
What digital construction tools are available?
There are two main categories of digital construction tools: those that improve processes and efficiencies (what you might think of as more traditional IT), and those that are embedded into the buildings or used onsite.
Process and efficiency digital tools
One of the most beneficial areas to focus on for many construction firms is communication. Streamlining how those in your office communicate with those on site, not to mention all your contractors, can create significant efficiencies.
It is also important to ensure that all of your communication devices are ready for the UK’s digital switchover, which is when all the old landline networks will be turned off in favour of digital networks.
If you’re not sure where to begin with this side of digital transformation, seek out specialist IT support for the construction sector to learn more about the technology that is available and how best to use it in your organisation.
Cloud-based systems, for instance, can make it much easier for teams in different locations to collaborate with one another. Ensuring that all the documents and information you require is on the cloud will mean your teams can access this from anywhere with an internet connection.
For project managers who may need to visit different sites over the course of a day or a week, this can be invaluable, as they can access precisely what they need to know wherever they are.
Embedded or onsite digital tools
The rise of AI and ever-smaller connected devices means that there is a raft of new technology that construction companies can take advantage of. Among them are:
- The Internet of Things (IoT) and digital twins
- Augmented reality
- Drones
- 3D printing
The IoT and digital twins
The IoT and digital twins are interesting connected concepts for the construction sector. In relation to construction, a digital twin is a virtual representation of either a building or component in the physical world.
These virtual twins can be used to help predict outcomes of actions or even what materials will fare best in a given environment. But when they are coupled with sensors placed in buildings or on construction equipment, they come into their own.
Sensors can send back an array of data, which is then analysed and can provide engineers with real-time updates on the state of a building or structure. Or they can highlight how well a given piece of equipment is performing and even raise maintenance needs early.
Augmented reality
This type of technology can be valuable on construction sites, because it allows those working on the ground to overlay blueprints, plans or schematics onto the site in front of them, regardless of how far along construction is.
Using tablets, project managers, contractors or anyone else working on site, can access a digital record – like a floorplan – and overlay that on what they see in front of them helping bring designs to life.
When it comes to adding the final touches to construction projects, augmented reality can show you how different finishes, colours or fixtures might look in-situ, helping you make a more informed decision about the final interior design.
Drones
Drones are already becoming invaluable for carrying out site surveys, because of the distance they can cover and the viewpoint they provide. The data they gather from their high-resolution cameras can be used to create accurate maps efficiently and quickly.
They can also be used to survey for specific hazards or warning signs on sites, using the likes of thermal imaging technology, to help keep everyone safer and reduce unforeseen disruptions to projects.
What cyber security do you need for digital construction tools?
While digital construction tools can certainly improve efficiency, it is also important to recognise that they introduce new challenges, particularly around cyber security.
Hacking is a risk when so much data is held digitally and so many building plans are constructed in 3D and stored virtually, according to one study, which is why it’s essential that construction firms using the latest digital tools also invest in their cyber security.
Working with an experienced cyber security partner is therefore an essential additional step when you are utilising digital construction tools for your business.