It’s safe to say the landscape of construction has changed since the start of 2020, just like most every major industry. Even as a slow-down shook up the industry, however, innovation continued to march forward. Software developers and engineers never stopped identifying the vulnerabilities and weaknesses of the construction landscape, helping to ensure that teams could tackle new challenges head-on and move quickly once jobsites resumed normal activity.

While the industry itself isn’t the quickest adopter of new technology, the pandemic has likely left an impression as it relates to being open to solutions that help get work done more safely and profitably than before. And it has also helped shine a light at looking at ways to increase productivity that isn’t solely tied to manpower. For instance, how can equipment become more efficient, or managed in such a way that it costs less to own? Another possibility looks at how teams can incorporate software that provides simulated views of jobsites to reduce the potential of accidents or other conditions that might lead to worker injury, helping to solve a problem before the jobsite even opens for business.

Right now, there is a technology renaissance happening in construction as software engineers and developers look for ways for teams to work more closely together, even if distance keeps them in disparate locations. Combined with the need to keep boots on the ground on the jobsite, these novel solutions have shown promise as we enter the midway point of a year like no other.

Connecting Teams and Data through Technology

The list of new technology solutions that have begun to gain traction are quite diverse, ranging from software to robotics. Here are a few that have the potential to change the jobsite in the short term:

1. Fleet management software: Getting a handle on the work a company’s heavy equipment has become increasingly important for organizations looking for cost control in more places. Software from companies like Sage allows users to enter equipment related cost and revenue information directly into Sage 300 CRE Payroll timesheets or Sage 300 CRE Accounts Payable invoices, and then distribute accordingly for seamless processing. Sage ToolOps software also helps with equipment maintenance and resource allocation.
   
   
2. Jobsite simulation software for training purposes: Just like a fighter pilot, new jobsite simulator software is helping to expose young workers to the variables and range of conditions they will experience once they set foot on a jobsite. From changing weather to wind speed to mechanical failures, instructors can introduce scenarios that offer project management staff the training they need to survive surprises.
   
   
3. Earthwork take-off software: On-screen takeoffs have long been a must-have in a construction company’s suite of software solutions, but the platform is evolving to include solutions for earthwork as well. Integrating on-screen takeoffs into existing workflows makes it possible to seamlessly move from takeoff to building your estimate, saving time and increasing accuracy.
   
   
4. Artificial intelligence for road inspections: In a similar vein, new technology is being developed to help monitor the surfaces of roads, allowing for teams to gain deep analysis into the structural health of roads to aid in planning for maintenance-related projects. Keeping up with pending maintenance projects using real-time insights from the field helps keep small issues contained and prevent them from becoming all-hands-on-deck emergencies.

Better Intelligence, Better Decision Making

A consistent theme throughout these various technology advancements is the way in which they enable teams to make increasingly informed decisions. The level of insight is getting quite granular – a good thing, ultimately – as it’s to the benefit of teams in the home office and the field, as well as subcontractor and design partners.

Every aspect of a construction project can be measured, from the ROI of heavy equipment to the efficiency of teams to share and respond to updates. New software is using novel platforms including drones, artificial intelligence, and robotics to perform projects more safely and with better information in hand. Software such as Procore Project Management and Sage 300 CRE Project Management can deliver the same benefits, right now.

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