Times are changing, and so is the technology needed in the various industries. Efficient operational management procedures are currently being implemented in many industries, for instance, in construction firms.
Construction firms are under pressure to find better methods to elevate project productivity, profitability, and quality. On-site and off-site construction technologies are being used to provide such. Read further to understand the benefits of on-site technology for construction site management.
What Is On-Site Construction Technology?
In on-site construction, the contractors use traditional construction methods, whereby all works and construction activities are conducted consecutively. On the other hand, in off-site construction, the construction materials are designed at the factory via a streamlined process and sufficient quality, then transported and assembled at the construction site to complete a complete project.
Construction in tight urban areas is best done on-site since it is hard to transport and assemble these building modules due to urban congestion. On-site construction technology beats off-site by several points. It's more hands-on, and the results can be fine-tuned during the construction project.
1. Improved Safety And Performance
Safety is paramount on a construction site. Several innovations are used to ensure the safety of workers and materials during construction. Wearable technologies, for example, smartwatches, are common in on-site construction.
More safety features include reflector clothes and traffic cones, which help avoid accidents on the construction site. Other wearable technologies that will revolutionize performance in the construction industry include smart glasses, robotic arms, and legs, among other innovations.
2. Flexibility In Design And Customization
It is always recommended to minimize alterations from the original project design. Regular alterations may result in project delay, as much as it is necessary. On-site construction allows for any design customization.
Having the necessary technology, for instance, drones can help the project team assess the project's progress and determine what element is not practical and needs change. This reduces the chance of error in the final stages since they will have eliminated any possible mistakes right from the beginning.
It's easy to track progress over time by incorporating 3D modelling technology into your project workflow. Through a process called building information modelling, you can create a virtual version of your project to track changes throughout its lifecycle. By associating project data with the 3D model, you get a better perspective on the planning process and can easily collaborate with others.
On a more positive note, the project team can come up with unlimited designs while constructing. Unlike off-site construction, where everything comes pre-assembled, on-site construction is open to change while the building is under progress.
3. Seamless Connectivity
The Internet of Things (IoT) is a modern advancement that allows connectivity in almost every aspect. It has changed previously static objects and devices into smart objects, which has increased communication between each other.
It allows accountability; for instance, an IoT enabled machine can answer to some system or software when it is in use so that the time is automatically logged.
Cloud-based software and apps have also penetrated the construction industry, seeking to improve connectivity and productivity. Some of their positive outcomes include;
• The construction teams and projects can see what's taking place and collaborate in real- time.
• Construction teams can achieve more of the work done on-site.
• Construction firms are now able to track and manage costs, labor, among other resources.
• Firms are eliminating time-consuming data entry and admin and becoming more productive.
4. Reduced Risk Factor
Construction is a risky process if you have to consider some activities, such as mapping, surveying, surveillance, and reporting. This is especially true for tall construction projects, where project workers stand the risk of grave injury if the process is not conducted carefully.
Drones or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are designed to fly high and assist in on-site construction to reduce risk factors. With drones, the project team can conduct extensive surveying and surveillance to troubleshoot or plan ahead.
No worker stands the risk of physical injury while attempting to scale tall heights if drones are used. Ground-level modes of ensuring zero risks, such as putting up a traffic cone, also help ensure worker safety.
Bottom Line On Construction Technology
On-site technology makes construction easier. It helps in proper site management by keeping all parties connected and informed. There are almost zero construction technologies with off-site construction that will work as efficiently as when used on-site. Most importantly, on-site technologies allow the project team to perfect the project as it is under construction.
