Here's a look at some platforms of prevailing technology in construction:
Artificial intelligence
Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer the far-out, science-fiction technology of popularized culture. It's being used in the real world, and – according to consulting firm McKinsey & Co. – AI is construction's "next frontier." While McKinsey noted AI isn’t yet highly adopted in the industry, it’s prevalence is growing. AI has a number of applications in construction, some of which long-time stakeholders in the industry might not have predicted. One use McKinsey emphasized was predictive analysis, a process in which AI is used to comb through vast amounts of data to extract insight. The information accrued can then be used to grade risk and constructability.
Virtual and augmented reality
Imagine standing in a construction space of bare concrete lit with spotlights but seeing before you a vibrant scene of a finished project, complete with warm sunlight and smiling workers. This projective vision is possible when construction companies use virtual or augmented reality (VR or AR) during the preliminary stages of builds. There's an emerging market of building information modeling (BIM) software that's adapted for VR and AR. Construction managers and planners can use these platforms on-site to envision the final product and assess project specifics before the project even starts.
Wearables
Wearable technology has gained a hold with consumers, as fitness trackers and smartwatches offering popular mobile options. This technology isn’t just a consumer trend; it may also be used on a construction site. Worker safety is always a priority, but sites are large areas with a variety of potential risks. Outfitting workers with GPS-enabled wearables can identify location and alert them if they’re entering an area with potential hazards to be aware and cautious of. Combining wearables with geo-location and geo-fencing can help construction companies better manage and protect their employees.
Technology has a number of promising benefits in construction; maximizing its use requires adaptive, attentive, and streamlined management. In Design/Build, one firm handles both ends of the job, and well-designed project programs can employ technology throughout and across the project without hassle. Talk to a Keystone Construction representative today for more information about Design/Build and how we can help with your next project.