After a booming 2017, construction companies are anticipating even stronger 2018. According to Dodge Data & Analytics, the majority of contractors are optimistic and plan to expand their staff.
Numerous factors have set a new wave in the construction industry, and technology is no exception. The advancement and application of technology is increasing with a shocking speed and it will only continue throughout 2018.
So what are we to expect from the rest of the 2018? Here are our top 5 construction trends worth keeping an eye on. Identifying the top trends will help you stay ahead and bring your company to the next level.
1. Modular Construction
Modular construction is the development of a building structure off-side, and then transporting it to the desired site location. All that done without compromising the quality of the structure.
Thanks to off-site construction, contractors can finish a job up to 65 times faster, not have to delay projects due to weather and most importantly – create safer environment for workers.
2. Labor Shortage
Ever since the Great Recession, the construction industry has been struggling with labor shortages. This is expected to continue through 2018 as companies cannot keep pace with the increase of construction which demands skilled tradespeople.
Despite the overall optimism from the above mentioned report, reality is that technology advances generate the need for technologically savvy tradespeople.
According to a survey by the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) 78% of firms are having a hard time filling skilled labor positions and 82% expect it to remain difficult if not get even get worse.
3. Sustainable Construction
In recent years we have seen a major increase in incorporating sustainable and green elements in the construction industry.
In 2018, the green construction is expected to attract even more attention. Construction managers and contractors will be required to acquire all the necessary certifications in order to be recognized as green construction.
Resiliency, along with recycling construction waste are other noteworthy sustainable measures.
4. Mobile and Cloud Applications
Even with a slower pace, the construction industry has also been revolutionized by the Internet of Things. Equipment armed with sensors, instant communication between equipment and operators, along with onsite wearable technology and bio metric monitors have changed and improved the industry – making it safer and more productive.
Industry specific apps, such as construction project management software, document management, material and time tracking software are another aspect enabling real time collaboration and improving communication between office and construction sites.
5. Technology – AR/VR, Drones and Robotics
Times are significantly changing and we can now see technology and automation in pretty much every aspect of construction. We already have robots that can tie rebar and lay thousand bricks a day.
Robotics can definitely streamline construction processes, but also improve safety for workers by eliminating lifting heavy equipment and materials.
Drones have been used to map out construction sites, report project changes and inspecting sites.
VR simulators are also being used to train construction workers on heavy equipment and provide walk through for construction sites. And let’s not forget 3-D printing – Denmark already has a 3-D printed building and Netherlands 3-D printed a concrete bridge.
In short, 2018 holds a lot of excitement and new changes for the construction industry. We will see a lot of progress and new discoveries. Our team hopes that by outlining the top 5 emerging trends to look out for in 2018, you will be able to get ahead and step into the future.
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