Despite being slow to adapt, the construction sector is embracing digital technology and is revolutionising the way it operates. As with most other industries, Covid-19 certainly accelerated the use of technology, but for those in construction, there have been other outside influences at play too.
The construction sector is responsible for 35-45% of CO2 emissions, so sustainability has been a major driver, forcing businesses to become more efficient. Safety has been another key issue, bringing with it a focus on improving standards, reducing mistakes and improving record keeping.
The good news is that a more digitalised approach is already leading the industry to marked improvements in sustainability, safety standards and quality. In fact, according to NBS’ most recent Digital Construction Survey, 80% of built environment professionals believe digital technologies are delivering ‘a better-built environment’.
It is also helping builders to boost business. It’s making them faster, more accurate and ultimately more productive and profitable as a result. Here’s how:
Working smarter
Automation is helping builders to work smarter. It’s turning typically time-sapping jobs into quick, streamlined processes at the click of a button. ‘Old-school’ manual methods like measuring up with paper plans and scale rulers can now be done simply online, and accurate takeoffs can be completed up to 80% quicker than before.
For busy builders juggling multiple projects, this is welcome news. Digital tools are speeding up processes, minimising errors and freeing up time – time that can be spent generating more business and increasing profits, or even with family and friends, helping to provide a better work-life balance.
Improving accuracy
Harnessing automationcan also dramatically improve accuracy. For example, mistakes made in the early takeoff phase can have expensive repercussions when done manually – missing items or ordering too many materials can eat into profitability, so it pays to get it right the first time.
Using construction management software, builders can take accurate measurements using easy-to-use, in-built functions. This not only saves time, but it minimises the risk of human error and ensures projects are quoted accurately. Software can also let you link automatically to your preferred supplier, so you can create precise estimates with up-to-date pricing every time.
Getting organised
Digital technology is helping building companies to get organised, making them more productive. By having all project information stored digitally, it’s much easier to keep track of what’s what. Builders can quickly access projects in the pipeline as well as detailed work history, saving time and unnecessary paperwork. Software gives builders a complete end-to-end solution. From estimating to full project management and even accounting, it can all be managed centrally and easily in one place.
Online project management and job scheduling means businesses can run like clockwork. Email or text reminders can be sent to contractors, suppliers and staff automatically, so nothing gets forgotten, and work schedules that show the ‘who, what and when’ can easily be generated, saving hours of time each week.
Taking control of finances
Thanks to digital technology, builders no longer need to rely on complex spreadsheets to track and manage costs and profitability. Using software, they can order and track directly from their estimate, so they know exactly how much has been spent. This means builders are always aware if they’re running over budget, and if they are, they can update their estimate to avoid it happening again on future jobs.
Construction management software like Buildxact can help builders quickly raise purchase orders and enter invoices in one simple easy to view dashboard. It can also link to accounting software, making it easy to keep track of what’s coming in and going out.
Boosting business
With so many benefits to be gained, it’s clear to see why digital technology has become so popular. With the power to improve productivity on a scale not seen before, builders are able to free up their time and instead focus on maximising profits. For those yet to experience the full benefits of automated tech, now is the time to get ahead and get on board the digital bandwagon.