It’s hard to believe that we’re already halfway through the year, yet here we are. The days are getting shorter, the weather is getting colder, and before we know it, Christmas will be upon us once again. In construction management, a lot can change in just six months. New technologies emerge old ones fall by the wayside, and trends come and go. Looking ahead to the second half of the year and beyond, what are some of the emerging trends in construction management that we should be keeping an eye on? Here’s what to watch for, according to expert Kanat Sultanbekov.
Table of Contents
1. Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR)
The use of VR and AR technology in construction is nothing new. However, technology is becoming more and more commonplace on construction sites around the world.
Using VR headsets, construction managers can take a virtual tour of a project site, allowing them to plan and execute the work more efficiently. AR technology, on the other hand, can provide real-time information about a construction site, such as the location of pipes and cables.
2. 3D Printing
3D printing is another technology slowly but surely making its way into the construction industry. Also known as additive manufacturing, 3D printing creates three-dimensional objects from a digital file.
Construction companies are beginning to use 3D printing to create prototypes of buildings and other structures. In the future, 3D printing will likely be used to create actual buildings, which would greatly reduce the time and cost of construction.
3. Drones
The use of drones in construction is becoming more and more common, as they can be used for various tasks, such as surveying land, inspecting buildings, and delivering materials to hard-to-reach places.
4. The Internet of Things (IoT)
The Internet of Things (IoT) is a network of physical devices, such as sensors and cameras, connected to the internet and can collect and exchange data.
The IoT is used in the construction industry to create so-called “smart” buildings. By connecting various devices and systems to the internet, construction managers can remotely monitor and control a building’s environment, saving energy and money.
5. Big Data
Big data is a term used to describe large data sets that can be analyzed to reveal patterns and trends. In construction, big data is being used to improve the efficiency of projects, as well as to predict and prevent problems.
For example, construction companies are using big data to track work progress, identify potential risks, and manage resources more effectively.
6. Modular Construction
Modular construction is a type of construction in which prefabricated modules are assembled on-site to create a structure. This type of construction has become increasingly popular in recent years, as it is more efficient and less expensive than traditional methods.
7. Sustainable Construction
Sustainable construction is a construction approach that focuses on the environment and the long-term effects of the built environment.
As the world becomes more aware of the need to protect the environment, sustainable construction is becoming more common. Construction companies are beginning to use sustainable materials, such as bamboo and recycled plastic, and are employing energy-efficient methods, such as solar power.
8. Building Information Modeling (BIM)
Building information modeling (BIM) is a digital representation of a construction project’s physical and functional characteristics.
BIM is being used by construction companies to plan, design, and construct buildings more efficiently. By using BIM, construction managers can detect potential problems early on and make necessary changes before work begins.
