Modernizing the Construction Ecosystem – Expert Opinion on Technology as an Enabler

Last Updated on June 23, 2023 by softtech

Although the construction industry has been relatively slow to embrace innovation, currently the construction sector is fast-evolving as per the changing technology landscape. The digitalization of the construction industry has been speedily replacing manual tedious processes & legacy practices. While the advent of the Cloud, AI, ML, BIM & GIS is revolutionizing the way construction projects are being visualized & executed.     

The influence of technology on the construction ecosystem is marked by modernization of construction design, data and project management. Read on this Blog to learn the pressing challenges faced by the construction industry today and the ways technology can resolve them. Explore how technology is changing the face of the multifaceted construction sector rapidly: 

Going Paperless 

One of the greatest challenges faced by the AEC industry currently is the cumulative carbon footprint on the environment.  We simply cannot ignore the fact that the waste generated from the construction process is a hazard for the ecosystem.  To minimize the growing waste pile-up, the concept of sustainable development has emerged.  

The first step towards sustainable construction is going paperless. Instead of relying heavily on paper drawings and documentation companies can choose cloud-based tools & solutions and BIM-based construction software that eliminate the need to depend on paperwork.  The cloud-based technology is also quicker, budget-friendly, reliable and supports remote working. Moreover, one of the key benefits yielding from cloud computing software is data protection.

Automating Supply Chain & Logistics 

Another drawback of using traditional methods is restricted & imprecise information sharing in multi-tier supply chains. The introduction of digitalization in the construction lifecycle processes can help to automate the supply chain and enable real-time & accurate information sharing across the supply chain. 

AI & ML can contribute greatly to monitoring, controlling & streamlining the logistics demand and supply. Additionally, technology can help in cost-cutting, supplier tender monitoring, minimizing surplus construction materials order, bridging the communication gap between builder and supplier, and efficient management of invoices.

Effortless Information Management 

The traditional methods of information handling, which include tedious paperwork, occupy storage space and also pose the risk of documents getting damaged. Making use of a cloud platform saves the storage place and helps in easy recording and compilation of data.

The data stored in cloud platforms are highly protected, thus preventing a potential data breach. Data stored in cloud-based platforms can be accessed by anyone from anywhere, depending on the project needs.

Smart Accounting Management 

In the traditional method of paper-based accounting, the bills, invoices, and contracts are prone to get spoiled with exposure to extreme climate conditions, water, and fire accidents. Storage of the bills on a cloud-based platform secures them enduringly and makes them easily accessible. Cloud-based and AI-powered software also helps with the streamlined management of budgeting & financial expenditures.

Moreover, Cloud-based construction management tools help with handling the bidding and tender filling without any hassles or slipups. The expenditures and budgeting can be seamlessly planned and monitored with an AI-powered construction ERP. The software also helps to automate payroll management and effectively handle balance checks, bills, invoices, and work order entry. Moreover, the software offers accurate expense tracking and smart projected & actual budget comparison reports & dashboards.

Seamless Communication Facilitator 

Construction ERP software can help to keep track of client exchanges across an array of communication channels such as emails, social media, communication apps, text messages and calls. The software also helps automate replies to clients, sends messages/ notifications/ alerts to various teams and keeps a record of the addressal & resolution of queries and client questions. 

The mishandling of information sharing across organizational communication platforms can result in miscommunication and conflicts. The streamlined client communication management and information handling offered by the AI helps to avert conflicts and resolve challenges before they become issues. 

Proactive Project Management 

The use of outdated project management practices often leads to missed deadlines, budget over expenditures and lost bids. The use of dedicated construction software makes it easier to handle multiple projects and bids seamlessly. 

The AI & ML leveraging software helps easy tracking of client projects and offers real-time insights on progress & potential challenges. The cloud-based software can help to proactively plan resources, meet client requirements, avert potential risks and meet deadlines. 

The road ahead

The advent of technology in the AEC industry can help streamline all functions in the construction project lifecycle while ensuring adherence to compliances & sustainable practices.   Technology helps not just in overcoming the challenges that can arise in these unprecedented times but also serves as a way of generating cost-savings opportunities. 

The digital transformation can serve as the driving force for boosting profitability & retaining a competitive edge.  Construction organizations that have adopted innovation are excelling in managing timelines, budgeting and resource scheduling, and are also more resilient to changing market dynamics.