5 New Technologies for Construction Managers

The construction industry is seeing an era of unprecedented change. Construction is an innately technical industry; often the successful completion of a project rests on the quality and capabilities of the tools available. This technological curve applies to workers and managers alike. Just as important as the devices used to carry out a construction project are the ones used to organize and coordinate it. Here are five emerging technologies that promise to change the way that construction companies do business forever.

1. Scheduling Software

Some of the most vital tools for a construction manager are no longer in hands but on computers. Planning is sometimes the most harrowing stage of a project, and this is an area in which digital technology can truly make things simpler. Construction scheduling software allows managers to track the time that a worker has been on shift down to the minute and call up that information on a mobile device. This type of software can also keep tabs on equipment purchase and usage. As well, programs are available that can generate project reports automatically, which can include progress details, digital document signing systems and even weather reports.

2. Drones

Drone technology isn't just for hobbyists and military strategists anymore. Drones with mounted cameras are being used on construction projects nationwide. They can give managers a bird's-eye view of a site in real-time, enabling planners to see potential pitfalls before they become time-wasting surprises. The information gathered from a drone-based camera can also be used later to map out the site in 3D.

Drones have the added advantage of being able to go places that humans can't while being guided by remote control. In a few years, artificial intelligence (AI) may be able to do all of this without any human intervention at all, freeing both planners and workers to set their minds to more creative aspects of the construction task.

3. Building Information Modeling

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is how contractors generate and manage digital representations of both the functional and physical characteristics of a space or building. BIM software can turn data gathered via drone or other sensing devices into a computer rendering that can show details of the project in various stages of completion, as well as aid in extrapolating how the finished product will look and perform.

A phenomenal leap forward is taking place now that BIM models can connect to mobile devices remotely, allowing every member of a project to have 3D renderings of the site and any building plans. Collaborations and synthesis of this information can, of course, be done almost entirely over the web as well, speeding up the pace of progress tremendously.

4. Additive Manufacturing

Also known as 3D printing, additive manufacturing is advancing both logistics and the construction industry as a whole. This technology uses basic feedstock materials such as resins, plastics or even concrete to create an object layer by layer on demand. Applications aren't limited to the making of simple objects any longer. In fact, the city of Dubai now sports the world's first printed office building. Even without this impressive feat, the ability of on-demand product creation to reduce turnaround times and cut shipping costs will be revolutionary.

5. Safety Gear

Just as advancements in materials science are changing manufacturing in a very visible way, the field is also making everyone on a job site safer through piecemeal improvements in personal protective equipment (PPE). High-quality filtration devices and glove materials can prevent infections and intake of other hazardous materials. Digital technology is helping here too, with "smart" vests that use LED lighting systems to improve worker visibility and wearable digital technology in hard hats that can actively monitor workers for signs of fatigue. The construction industry will always have dangers, but next-generation materials technology is already saving lives.

An important part of being a construction manager is managing one's own knowledge of the industry and the direction in which it is headed. It's hard to predict the future, but gauging the impact of new technologies on the construction industry can make the difference between embracing the future and missing out on it.