Technology is set to radically transform construction practices, processes, and outlook in 2022 through the adoption of automation and data analytics. The leading technological innovations, such as AI, robotics, VR, 3D printing, and cloud-based platforms are delivering greater productivity, output, and profitability for developers worldwide. That is why nearly 24% of global developers are expanding their investments into drones and robotics for improved efficiency.
Integral areas such as procurement, site progress, safety management, and budgeting are also being directly addressed through the integration of technology in 2022. In fact, nearly 5-10% of construction build costs can be saved through better process transparency, workflow & asset management, and resource optimization. Developers worldwide are expanding investments into technologies that drive immediate ROI in the coming year, especially in drones, robotics, and cloud-based 360-degree platforms.
Digitization driving connected construction ecosystems
2022 is a critical year for several construction firms as they align their resources, teams, and processes towards better connectivity and near real-time tracking. Driving greater clarity through remote connectivity tools is a key objective for developers, especially for multi-site and highly complex projects. Technology firms are also implementing offline and online integration platforms, enabling 24/7 access to project data, site visuals, remote chat features, budgeting tools, etc.
Robotics in construction is also being leveraged to provide real-time insights on completed work, site errors, comparison with projected specifications, quality testing, etc. With robots being agile across multiple dimensions, they can be seamlessly deployed in highly challenging sites to support site teams with high-quality data.
Enhancing sustainability and renewability through technology
The domain of sustainability has been a critical area of focus for developers worldwide. With cement and construction value chains accounting for nearly 25% of global carbon emissions, technology needs to be implemented that can help empower developers. In fact, with materials processing and building operations contributing nearly 97% to overall construction emissions, the right software solutions need to be implemented to drive enhanced project transparency.
2022 is set to be a significant year for project management and remote connectivity solutions that can improve areas such as planning, procurement, and operational efficiency. Acquiring highly sustainable materials, leveraging smart energy management tools, and reducing construction waste will be critical goals for the year as firms transition towards more sustainable execution. Additionally, novel site informatics via drones, 3D printing, and robotics will empower architects to design more renewable spaces integrating digital twins and real-time analytics solutions.
Integrated digital solutions for quality and safety optimization
Unifying distinct processes, teams, and workflows will be key to successful delivery in 2022. The year will focus on optimizing all aspects of the modern construction project, including key strategies to digitizing site quality management. Drones, robotics, and remote connectivity solutions will be deployed to drive better quality progress insights, along with detailed information on rectifications, remediations, and other critical areas.
Site safety will also be significantly enhanced through the integration of smart platforms that provide a checklist driven approach to safety management. Platforms, such as Zepth 360, provide real-time safety insights enabling project managers to instantly gauge completed work for quality metrics adherence as well as compliance guidelines. With developers focused on enhancing worker safety in 2022, a complete 360-degree solution can ensure effective governance within the function.
Technology solutions for design and planning efficiencies
Technologies such as BIM are widely regarded as a preliminary solution to design and planning challenges, with 42% of global firms believing it to deliver the greatest ROI for operational efficiencies. Developers are further investing in the technology area while also exploring 5D BIM as a viable solution for all projects in the coming year.
AR, VR, and visualization technologies are also set to expand in 2022, with these solutions dominating within design development and schematics actualization. These solutions can expedite approvals and provide an interactive walkthrough experience to project managers, enabling better decision making and comprehensive issue detection. Planning stage technologies can significantly streamline site work, align resources, and improve success rates which is why they are set to dominate 2022.
Modern construction development technology solutions
The growth of automated machinery and equipment is set to continue in 2022, with more developers aiming to optimize investments in automated construction work. Site robots, autonomous equipment, and automated monitoring capabilities are transforming construction sites, making them more dynamic and efficient. Technology solutions that deliver continuous site activity through machine learning and data analytics are also benefiting developers through cost reduction and significant time savings.
Additionally, 3D printing is an emerging technology area for planning as well as actual site development as well. The solution is being leveraged in specific use cases wherein commercial sites are being developed in a significantly shorter timeframe, with high quality and renewable materials. These 3D printed spaces are also reducing site construction waste by nearly 60% in some cases, which is a key area that developers are focusing on in 2022.
