What is digital in construction?

In the construction context, "digital" refers to using digital technologies and tools to enhance various aspects of the construction process. This encompasses a range of technologies and applications aimed at improving efficiency, accuracy, collaboration, and overall project management.

What digital technology is available in construction?

The digitalization of construction is an ongoing process that aims to transform traditional construction practices by adopting advanced technologies, ultimately leading to more efficient and sustainable building processes.

1. Digital collaboration tools and Building Information Modeling (BIM)

Digital collaboration tools such as building information modeling (BIM) are game-changers in the construction industry. BIM digitally represents a building's physical and functional characteristics and processes.

BIM enables designers, architects, and builders to view the project in a 3D model, making it easier to identify design flaws and avoid building errors that may occur during construction.

These tools also allow multiple teams working on a project to collaborate digitally and make changes to the design without waiting for other team members' physical presence. BIM ensures efficiency and saves time and resources in the construction process.

2. Robotics, automation and drones

Robotics and automation are now becoming commonplace in the construction industry. For example, automated equipment such as brick-laying machines can lay bricks faster and more efficiently than human laborers. These machines can maintain the same quality of work and reduce the time spent on construction projects.

Also, drones are becoming more popular in the construction industry as they capture high-resolution images and generate 3D maps, providing an aerial view of construction sites, monitoring projects' progress, and identifying hazards at job sites, thus ensuring that the construction process's safety is always prioritized.

3. IoT and sensors

The Internet of Things (IoT) has found its way into the construction industry, which is used to track equipment, tools, and material locations on job sites.

In construction, the Internet of Things (IoT) refers to the application of technology that connects physical devices, sensors, equipment, and infrastructure via the Internet, thereby creating a network of intelligent objects that can exchange data and communicate. IoT transforms how projects are executed and has enormous potential to optimize processes, reduce costs, and improve productivity and safety on the construction site.

This technology lets construction teams locate and manage equipment and supplies in real-time. IoT and sensors can also monitor a building's temperature, humidity, and energy usage, helping contractors and building managers make more informed decisions during construction and save on energy expenses once the building is occupied.

Integrating IoT with construction equipment, machinery, and devices helps efficiently execute operations to reduce construction time and utilize resources.

4. Virtual and augmented reality

Virtual and augmented reality are changing the game in the construction industry, giving builders and architects a realistic view of the building's design before its actual construction.

VR and AR technologies are used to create immersive experiences in construction projects. VR allows users to experience a digital representation of a construction project in a simulated environment. AR overlays digital information onto the real-world construction site, aiding in tasks like design visualization and on-site inspections.

Virtual and augmented reality technology enhances construction workers' training and safety programs, such as simulating emergency evacuation in case of a fire. This technology can also simulate equipment operations, allowing construction employees to understand how to use heavy equipment without physically being present.

5. Mobile technology

The construction industry is very mobile, with construction managers and engineers always on-site supervising projects.

Mobile technology tools such as tablets, smartphones, and laptops help them stay connected and work efficiently. It enables construction managers to access documents, view designs, and communicate with team members remotely, reducing the time spent in the office.

6. Project management software

Digital tools for project management help in planning, scheduling, and monitoring construction projects. These tools often include features for collaboration, document management, and communication among team members.

7. Digital twins

A digital twin is a virtual representation of a physical asset or system. In construction, a digital twin can be used to simulate and monitor the performance of a building or infrastructure throughout its lifecycle. This technology helps in better decision-making, maintenance, and optimization of structures.

Stas Organizer: Transformative digital technology in construction

Stas Organizer is a digital solution that helps builders make timely decisions essential to the construction site based on real-time data. The application records all important construction data at the construction site itself.

All that is required when the worker arrives at the construction site is to collect the necessary data or notes related to the construction project and enter them into the application. With the help of software for effective construction project management, all important data and reports can be processed and generated quickly.

Stas Organizer enables cost optimization through a detailed work plan and transparency of the situation in the field.

By applying digital technologies in our work, we are one step closer to digitizing the construction industry and achieving better results in construction optimization, data processing, improved communication, and time savings.

Software like Stas Organizer is key to the construction industry's digital transformation and business improvement. You can try it for free.

Improving project management

Stas Organizer provides project management tools that help you keep track of all aspects of your projects, from budgets and schedules to project task lists.

Reduction of paperwork and administrative work

Stas Organizer allows you to store and manage all your project documents and information in one place, reducing the need for paperwork and manual processes.

Insight into projects and finances in real-time

The Stas application gives you real-time access to key project and financial data to make informed decisions and adjust your plans if necessary.

What should be taken into account in the digitization process?

During the digitization process in the construction industry, it is important to take several key factors into account:

Planning and strategy

It is important to have a clear plan and strategy for digitization. Define the goals and expectations you want to achieve with digitization. Consider how digital technologies will fit into your existing processes and how they will impact your business and teams.

Training and development

Digitization requires the adaptability and skills of employees. Ensure that your employees are trained to use new digital tools and technologies. Organize training and education so everyone is familiar with the changes and can apply them daily.

Data security

Digitization involves collecting, storing, and processing large amounts of data. It is important to ensure data security and protect it from unauthorized access or theft. Consider implementing security measures such as data encryption, access control, and regular software updates.

System integration

When using different digital tools and systems, it is important to ensure their integration to enable smooth data exchange between them. Use open standards and interoperability to facilitate integration and communication between different systems.

Culture change

Digitization often requires a shift in work culture and thinking. Encourage teams to be open to new technologies and changes and to adopt new approaches and processes. Communicate the benefits of digitization and encourage collaboration between different teams to drive the adoption of new practices.

Monitoring the results

Regularly monitor and evaluate the results of digitization. Analyze how changes affect productivity, costs, quality, and other key performance indicators. Based on this data, you can adjust your digitization strategy and identify areas for improvement.

Considering these factors helps ensure the successful implementation of digitization in the construction industry and maximizes the benefits the technology can bring.

Conclusion

Digital technology in construction is no longer just an option; it is now becoming a requirement. With digital technology's help, the construction industry will become more efficient, safer, and overall better.

This digital technological revolution transforms how construction projects are viewed and will make planning, designing, building, operating, and maintaining structures easier.

In conclusion, the construction industry's future lies in digital technology, and construction workers and managers can significantly benefit from the industry's transformation by embracing these technologies.