How technology is changing the face of construction

The construction industry has perhaps been the slowest to welcome the support of technology and artificial intelligence. But it seems the time has come for those in the industry to embrace the change and accommodate technology into their working lives.

Those who have adopted the change have seen the benefits, including more efficient construction sites, better design and overall safer spaces to work. Keep reading to discover five ways technology is enhancing almost every aspect of the construction industry.

1. Increase in productivity

We’re seeing an emergence in more autonomous machines that effectively operate themselves. This means repetitive tasks, such as pouring concrete, welding and even demolition can be carried out to a much higher degree of efficiency and accuracy.  It enables workers to focus their efforts on more complex construction work, which, in turn, should reduce the time it takes to complete a project.

2. Increase in health and safety

Technology is becoming much more adept at identifying risks at construction sites and one particular American construction company is working on technology that analyses photos from construction sites to identify any visible or potential hazards – the most common being falls, being struck by objects and electrocution. This enables project managers to act swiftly to remove any potential or existing dangers to keep their workforce safe and confident.

3. Smarter design

Architects, engineers and construction workers are working in better harmony thanks to smarter design software, effectively replacing the need for blueprints. Technology has enabled workers to produce 3D models of completed projects so they can have better insights into the planning, design and construction stages. It also prevents any unforeseen clashes between the different industries on the construction site.

4. Better time management

There is one startup organisation that promises to address the age old issue of delayed projects that are often over budget. Their technology takes 3D scans of construction sites and uses the data to decide how far along projects are from completion. This enables project managers to step in and make changes before any issues take hold.

5. External construction and 3D printing

Companies are investing in robots in off-site factories that can create and bring together the different components of a building, such as walls. These are then put together by workers at the construction site to complete the project. This takes often very strenuous and time consuming tasks away from workers, who can focus their efforts on more complex areas, such as plumbing and electrical.

Whilst the industry is reluctant to take on technology due to concerns around job losses, it’s clear that technology is only finding ways to improve efficiency within the industry. If you feel confident working alongside technology, then a career in construction could be calling. At Walsall College, we have purpose built construction workshops with industry standard equipment that will prepare you for the world of work.

Apply now to secure your place for September.  See our Construction and the Built Environment courses.