Productivity in the construction industry has been a long-standing challenge, with value added per worker declining by 40% since 1970. While machine productivity has improved, it hasn’t fully compensated for the losses. To address this issue, solution providers are now focusing more on boosting jobsite productivity. By integrating data from various sources and leveraging modern technological advancements, construction managers can make more informed decisions and improve the overall efficiency of a project.
Unifying Data for Better Performance
Construction data, such as survey data, machine data, and financial data, has traditionally been isolated from each other. Modern technological advancements enable the integration of diverse data sources into a unified picture. Unified data allows managers to make better judgments and identify areas for improvement.
Leveraging Technological Advancements
Over the past five years, significant advancements in jobsite technology have transformed work procedures. These advancements help streamline operations, verify volumes quickly, and improve overall efficiency. The goal is to free up workers to perform additional duties rather than eliminating jobs.
Optimizing Work Procedures
Jobsite technology enables organizations to work harder by facilitating quick verification of work volumes. While the speed of work may not have increased, the entire organization can operate more efficiently. By combining machine control with other construction technologies, quick decision-making has become possible.
Addressing Rework and Delays
Rework is a major frustration for contractors, resulting in wasted time, fuel, machine downtime, and additional labor costs. Machine control and construction technology minimize human errors and decrease rework. Project delays caused by rework can be avoided by implementing effective coordination among different contractors.
Boost Accuracy with Machine Control
Machine control and guidance systems transform unskilled operators into proficient ones. The primary goal is to perform tasks accurately and reduce the number of unnecessary movements. Combining machine control with reality capture and ground penetrating radar improves decision-making.
Preparing for Project Modifications
Inaccurate survey results can lead to conflicts and delays during the construction process. Utilizing 3D technology enables early identification of discrepancies between project plans and actual site conditions. Contractors who use 3D technology gain a competitive edge, allowing them to anticipate change orders and modify plans accordingly.
Cloud-Based Collaboration for Seamless Communication
Physical transportation of 3D files to the project site is time-consuming and risky. Cloud-based collaboration platforms enable simultaneous and remote file sharing across multiple machines. Real-time data tracking and communication tools ensure accurate and up-to-date information exchange.
It is by embracing jobsite technology that the construction industry can overcome productivity challenges. Unifying data sources, leveraging technological advancements, and optimizing work procedures enable better decision-making and help in improving a project’s efficiency. Addressing rework, improving accuracy with machine control, and adopting cloud-based collaboration platforms will help in streamlining operations and reduce delays. With these advancements, the construction industry can actually boost productivity, reduce costs, and deliver projects more effectively.