What does the future of construction look like? How can businesses adapt to evolving technologies and data analysis strategies? In an exciting webinar titled, “Closing the data leverage gap: The autonomous future of construction”, our panel of industry experts dived into these questions and explored the challenges and opportunities that emerging autonomous technologies present in the construction sector.
Moderated by Tobias Pforr, Business Lead BLK2FLY, the panel included Jay Bowman, a partner at FMI; Tim Bauer, Senior Manager, VDC Field, McCarthy Construction; and Taylor Cupp, Senior Manager, Building Solutions, Hexagon.
In their discussion, the panellists talked about Hexagon’s recent construction automation study, which involved decision-makers from big general contracting firms in the U.S., the U.K. and Australia. The study revealed a significant insight, which has been called the “data leverage gap”.
What is the data leverage gap?
The data leverage gap is a phenomenon whereby companies collect vast amounts of data but struggle to translate it into actionable insights. Cupp shared his experience collaborating with a company that discovered a staggering 90% of the data gathered from a customer over a decade remained untouched – although the 10% used provided invaluable insights.
The panel discussed how autonomous technology addresses this gap and enhances project insights. Autonomous tools can monitor the progress of a construction job daily, ensuring that everything is installed in the right spots and moving along as planned.
Mitigating risks with new technology
When it comes to integrating new tech, it’s crucial to navigate potential risks. Bauer emphasised that a committee approach works best to mitigate these risks. The committee learns the technology, tests it, and if successful, introduces it to all projects and regions.
Moreover, the panel suggested that businesses should understand the problem they want to solve and then identify the economic benefit of solving it. This understanding will guide them on what a good return on investment might be.
One of the challenges with implementing new technology is the human aspect. The panel agreed that new technology must solve a real problem and meet a genuine need. If it does, people are more likely to embrace it.
Preparing for the autonomous future
As the construction industry becomes more automated, it’s vital to equip teams with the skills needed to stay current. Bauer suggested that businesses should view technology as a tool to assist workers, rather than a threat to their jobs.
Getting the workforce on board is about helping them see how technology can eliminate the tasks they dislike, freeing them to focus on the aspects of their work they enjoy more.
In the autonomous future, the ability to collaborate, make swift decisions and effectively communicate will be crucial. Coupled with accurate data, these skills will allow workers to make the most of the information they receive from technology.
Don’t miss the full discussion
Want to hear more about the autonomous future in construction from industry experts? Don’t miss out on this panel discussion. Explore the conversation in depth to discover the potential that autonomous technology has to offer and how it can impact the future of construction.
