About 15 years ago, one of my companies landed our biggest outsourced IT-managed services customer, a regional construction player with staff in Barbados and St. Vincent. Back then, the work for construction outfits primarily involved setting up small office networks for basic services. The expectation and opportunity to integrate smartphone technologies weren’t as pervasive as they are now.
Regardless, construction industry technology has been one of the more difficult but interesting topics for me to cover. Until recently, except for Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and basic productivity tools, construction innovation has not been as dynamic as in extra-regional jurisdictions. Our regional experience has been labour-focused and has remained labour- and materials-intensive to this day, more so than in other industries.
However, there are a few specialised areas where we have led in innovation and the use of newer technology. For example, the use of precast concrete structures by local industry leader Preconco. When we landed the construction client, it inspired us to create a prototype platform called Pivotal Stone, where industry partners could share updates and details. We envisioned direct links to suppliers like Carters and Harris Paints for near-time purchasing solutions. While the system wasn’t implemented, it highlighted the potential for integrating technology in construction. Reflecting on this, I wanted to see where the industry is globally and what local construction players could adopt.
Modern technology is significantly shaping the construction industry in several ways. My industry review led me to identify three general areas where most construction companies could greatly benefit, with short, medium, and long-term investments if not already implemented:
- Drones and Aerial Imaging: Short-Term Investment (Days – Weeks)
In a matter of a few days, companies can take advantage of drones for accurate site surveys and quick building inspections, enabling precise mapping and measurement of construction sites. Drones provide the added benefit of facilitating long-term maintenance inspections, especially for tall buildings where routine inspections can pose significant risks to life. They allow for real-time progress tracking, providing up-to-date visual data to project managers and stakeholders.
- Construction Project Management (CPM): Medium-Term (Weeks – Months)
With modern CPM software, companies can sign up in days to weeks, depending on how the software integrates with their workflow and meets their needs. These companies can efficiently create and manage project schedules with real-time updates using robust digital tools. As cloud-based platforms, these tools allow third parties, including subcontractors and clients, to collaborate seamlessly. This facilitates comprehensive project planning and management, ensuring that tasks are assigned, tracked, and completed on time. With an intuitive interface, teams can stay informed and aligned, leading to smoother project execution and higher productivity.
- Robotics and Automation: (Long-Term Investment – month to years)
Robotics and automation, although still nascent and expensive, have come a long way and represent a robust feasibility for longer-term investment. Technologies like FBR Ltd’s Hadrian-X robot can significantly increase efficiency and precision in tasks like bricklaying and concrete pouring. These innovations reduce labour costs and minimise human error, while also enhancing safety by performing hazardous tasks, thereby protecting workers and improving overall project outcomes.
Whenever discussion centres around the automation of tasks, it often leads to concerns about job displacement, such as bricklaying and the use of current technologies like precast concrete, which integrates infrastructure elements like plumbing and electrical systems during the build process. However, it’s important to recognise the potential for new job creation. The fixation on job redundancy can make us overlook the numerous opportunities that these advancements present.
Here are some potential new jobs created by these emerging technologies:
- Construction Data Analyst: Analyses data from project management software to optimise project schedules, budgets, and resource allocation.
- Aerial Survey Specialist: Analyses aerial imagery and data to provide accurate site assessments and mapping.
- Construction Technology Integration Specialist: Integrates various smart devices and smart sensors into the overall construction project management system to enhance efficiency and safety.
The construction industry, like so many others, is on the cusp of a technological revolution, driven by innovations such as drones, construction project management software, and robotics. These advancements promise to enhance efficiency, precision, and safety across various aspects of construction. While there are valid concerns about job displacement, it is crucial to recognise that these technologies also create new opportunities for employment and skill development. Roles such as construction data analyst, aerial survey specialist, and construction technology integration specialist exemplify the new job market emerging from these innovations.
By embracing these changes and investing in both short-term and long-term technological solutions, the construction industry can not only improve its processes but also pave the way for a more efficient, safe, and dynamic future.
