construction industry tech trends building technology well

The Top 10 Construction Industry Tech Trends for 2019We predict the most exciting and promising construction industry tech trendsfor 2019!In recent years, construction industry tech trends have brought aboutsignificant changes in working methods, along with cost efficiencies. For thenear future at least, this rapid innovation looks set to continue apace andperhaps even gain momentum.If you are a site manager or company owner in the building industry, you willprobably want to be aware of construction industry tech trends for the comingyear. If so, read on. Here, we introduce and explore ten different ways inwhich companies are deploying emerging technologies.### 1. Augmented Reality2019 could well be a breakthrough year for the use of augmented reality in thefield of construction, still one of the least automated. Cumulative investmentin construction technology increased by around thirty per cent during 2018. Inthe USA, the sector is already worth an estimated $1 billion; such is the rateof expansion that industry commentators expect annual turnover to exceed $10billion by 2020.A recent example illustrates the possible benefits. In Rhode Island, NewEngland, a firm of commercial builders used Microsoft HoloLens software, asystem that displays holographs while the user is in the physical constructionenvironment. Usefully, the resulting mock-up of the project showed that thesteel wall support frames that the company were going to order would be toolong. Because the potential mistake was rectified early and avoided time-consuming and labour-intensive modifications, the company saved around $5,000.Though still in its early stages and not without occasional imperfections,such systems are already boosting efficiency. As AR becomes mainstream, fewerprojects should exceed budgets or deadlines.### 2. Wearable TechnologySmart glasses, smart clothing and sensors will boost efficiency and safety.Smart glasses will become more compact, powerful and stable with technologicaladvances. In the above Rhode Island example, staff used a head-worn augmentedreality computer instead of working from paper blueprints or digital screen-based models.Smart clothing includes heated jackets and cooling vests to deal withtemperature extremes, as well as intelligent caps that detect worker fatigueand miniature gyroscopes which sense trips, falls and accidents.### 3. Network SystemsIncreasingly during 2019, computer networks will form a digital backbone forthe building industry. From the very beginnings of project lifecycles throughto budget evaluation and monitoring costs, teams will benefit from betterinformation flow. Designers, architects, engineers, technicians andadministrative staff can expect extra synergy with the ability to collaboratemore efficiently and in real time.### 4. ModellingEnhanced building information modelling systems and software will almost leadto change in how companies design, develop and manage their constructionplans. Whether through quicker drafting and sharing of conventional two-dimensional schematics or of three-dimensional models, considerable benefitsand shorter lead times are on the cards.### 5. Modular ConstructionDuring 2019, we might well see wider adoption of modular construction.Although the technique does involve some trade-offs, there are significantbenefits in terms of shorter lead times and reduced costs while stillmaintaining quality standards.According to information published by London-based publisher Building, it ispossible to complete project work in around half the usual time with modularconstruction techniques when compared to traditional methods. Moreover,continued advances will probably see standard processes and modularmethodologies used to more significant effect. Developers and building firmswill move towards using off-site pre-assembly as much as possible, whileonsite assembly work will, therefore, reduce correspondingly.### 6. Self-Healing ConcreteYears ago, the idea of self-healing concrete would probably have raisedincredulous eyebrows. Nowadays, evoking a sense of what might once have beenconsidered science fiction, construction industry tech trends mean thatbuilding projects now specify this innovative material as a matter of course.Using cutting-edge biotechnological principles, friendly bacteria in the coreof the concrete become more active and produce limestone if the outer layer isexposed to air and water – as is typically the case if there are surfaceimperfections or areas of damage. Concrete repairs are also possible withsmaller cracks and surface finishes since the fix can be applied convenientlyas a spray or as a mortar.### 7. DronesDrones are becoming increasingly accurate in readings, land mapping andsurveys. Consequently, their usage might well multiply by five times duringthe next ten years.### 8. RoboticsSimilarly, robots are becoming more precise in manipulating routine workpiecesand handling repetitive tasks. Robots, therefore, look set to become a majorforce within the world of construction. GenieBelt, a Danish multidisciplinaryteam of Danish consultants, estimates that the deployment of robots within thesector could almost triple over the next decade, with a growth level of up to175 per cent.### 9. Cloud and Mobile technologyIn 2019, the industry will continue to use advanced GPS tracking and satellitepositioning features to maintain the speed of construction. Coupled withimpressively low IT spending at less than one per cent of total revenue, thecompetitiveness of those firms that capitalise on emerging technology islikely to rise.### 10. CommunicationTraditional building skills will remain a fundamental requirement on site.However, construction industry tech trends mean that computer and softwareskills will also play an essential part in boosting internal administrationand inter-company communications.### Making the most of construction industry tech trendsIf you would like to benefit from the advantages of the latest technologicalsolutions and software, security or site management systems for visitors,contractors and staff, contact us. Our friendly team of experts at VisiPointwill be delighted to help. If you are a decision maker within the buildingindustry and wish to find out more, tap into our expertise and get startedtoday.