While the construction industry is usually slow to adopt technology, the pandemic has shown just how important it is to embrace the benefits of collaborative remote working. Stephen McMenzie, account manager at Ed Controls, explores the rise of digitisation in construction following the impact of COVID-19
The pandemic had an instant and dramatic effect on the construction industry – some sites were closed, projects put on hold, and supply chain issues saw a variety of materials difficult to obtain. Almost overnight, the industry needed to look at new ways of working and woke up to the potential of digitisation in construction.
According to McKinsey, COVID-19 was a turning point, with 50% of companies surveyed saying they have increased investment in digital transformation to meet the demands of the ‘new normal’. From communication to data sharing, health and safety to innovative construction methods, technology can help the construction industry work smarter, faster, and safer.
Paperless future
While some companies are fully embracing the opportunities of construction snagging tools and the benefits that moving to a digital world can bring, construction still lags behind other industries.
Shuffling piles of paperwork or scrolling through endless emails looking for information is inefficient and can lead to costly mistakes. Project management systems, like Ed Controls, enable project management at the touch of a button. All project information is stored in the cloud, instantly accessed, and updated in real-time using both Android and Apple operating systems.
“While some companies are fully embracing the benefits that moving to a digital world can bring, construction still lags behind other industries”
Action points for snagging can be assigned to an individual with photos, location, and description, ensuring full accountability and effective management.
Remote working
It’s looking increasingly likely that remote working – for some people at least – will become the ‘new normal’ post COVID-19.
Of course, for many ‘hands on’ tradespeople such as masons, carpenters, electricians, and site managers, remote working will never be possible. But for others, like those working in project management, some remote working is both possible and beneficial.
Benefits include:
- Flexible working
- Reduced travel time
- Increased productivity
- Greater efficiency
- Reduced carbon footprint
For complex building projects with multiple stakeholders, it’s important to embrace the benefits of collaborative remote working now.
The sooner these systems are being used fully and widely, the better the quality of work.
Automate for efficiency
Many experts believe it is those firms quickest to embrace technology who will emerge strongest in the future. Those companies that embrace digitalisation will be at the forefront of our industry.
There’s certainly no doubt that technology can increase efficiency. Easy-to-use digital systems like Ed Controls save time and reduce the risk of errors.
Observations and snagging issues can be recorded instantly and quickly assigned to the right person. Automated audits, quality checks, and reports can be compiled quickly and issued for review. For industries like construction, anything that reduces risks and increases safety should be welcomed.
Changing the game
COVID-19 is providing a catalyst for the digitalisation of the construction sector. Now the sector is beginning to see the benefits, there’s no going back. The benefits to be gained from the use of construction snagging tools can make a huge difference to the future competitiveness and success of construction firms.
As an increasing number of construction firms adopt digital tools like Ed Controls, we’ll see construction activity transform and become faster, smarter, and simpler in the future.
Ed Controls is a product of Build in Digital stakeholder Dutchview, an innovative IT company from Deventer, the Netherlands.
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