The construction industry is currently undergoing a technological renaissance. Every year new trends and technologies emerge that shake up the way the industry works. The new trends emerging in 2024 will shape the way business is done. Find out how these 2024 trends will be affecting the construction industry going forward.
Construction Management Software
Construction technology is revolutionizing how the industry operates, from new on-site tools to planning and admin. Embracing new trends in construction technology is something companies need to do to stay competitive. Construction management software (CMS) has dramatically shifted in recent years — new developments and the integration of CMS technology will be one of 2024’s biggest trends.
CMS is cloud-based software that provides construction teams with the tools they need to optimize their performance. It handles everything including communication, scheduling, documentation and project planning. This means companies can focus on more important tasks without worrying about the smaller details.
CMS technology can handle the increasing complexity of construction projects. In this fast-paced world, CMS can keep up with the demand for productivity and efficiency while simplifying collaboration and communication.
Drones
Advancements in drone technology have made them a new essential tool for modern construction companies. Integrating drones and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) will be a major construction trend in 2024. Drones and UAVs are useful for:
- Site surveying: Construction sites can easily be surveyed and mapped with drones. They can provide accurate data from any angle and level of elevation. Planning and managing projects can be done in real time from off-site locations using drone and UAV technology.
- Comprehensive inspections: Using drones, every part of a site can be inspected. Gain access to roofs, chimneys, attics and other hard-to-reach places. Workers will no longer have to risk their safety to reach and inspect these places. This improves efficiency and site safety.
- 3D modeling: 3D models of construction sites are easier than ever to create, thanks to drones. They can capture visual data to create fully accurate 3D models. These models are used for project visualization and identifying potential issues.
- Delivery: Delivering materials through drones is effective and immediate. Using drones for deliveries reduces potential downtime while waiting for tools or materials.
Increase in Supply Chain Management
2020, the construction industry has been experiencing supply chain delays. However, construction industry trends are attempting to overcome these difficulties. Some of these trends include timely procurement of deliveries and efficient warehouse management. The construction industry can improve productivity by focusing on managing the supply chain and related aspects.
Supply chain management will focus more on optimizing every part of the process. Suppliers and companies emphasize this side of their businesses from placing orders to deliveries.
Prefabricated Materials
Integrating prefabrication into the production mix is predicted to be one of the most influential commercial construction trends of 2024. Using prefabricated materials reduces labor costs, improves productivity and aligns with sustainability initiatives. These materials are becoming more accessible as 3D printing and prefabrication technology continue to develop. Companies still choosing to use traditional methods may soon change their ways. As the prefabricated material market expands, it will be easier to utilize them.
Renewable Energy Initiatives
Construction methods have not always been environmentally friendly. The industry has contributed to climate change over the years, but there is a shift toward greener initiatives. The construction industry produces 39% of the world’s carbon emissions, which is why advancements are being made to use cleaner energy and environmentally friendly practices. This change will be vital in combatting climate change. By using renewable energy sources and eco-friendly materials, the changes being made are improving efficiency and reducing emissions.
Virtual Reality
One of the biggest construction market trends is the integration of virtual reality (VR). VR is currently reshaping many aspects of the construction industry through:
- Better visualization: Using VR, stakeholders can experience a virtual simulation of the planned construction project. VR can create a perfect replica of interiors, construction sites and review plans. This will help make informed decisions on changes and planning before the project starts.
- Improving safety: VR settings can help map out hazards and potentially problematic areas. It also allows workers and crew members to familiarize themselves with the site. They can learn about the risks they need to be aware of and even optimize their work cycles.
- Cost savings: By providing such a thorough look into the construction project, it will be easier to make design changes early. This can greatly reduce costs in changes and reduce the risk of design errors.
- Efficient use of space and resources: Planning a construction site like this will make storing tools and machinery on-site easy. These plans can be referred to at any time and at any phase of the project to prevent wasted resources from unnecessary tools or machinery.
Increase in Worker Saftey Efforts
Worker safety is becoming a more prominent focus in the industry. Improved safety guidelines, better equipment and more frequent inspections contribute to a much safer working environment. These new safety measures are expected to be a prominent trend throughout 2024. Technology and certifications are driving progress in construction safety. Safety investments are pricey, but when done the right way, they will yield incredibly positive effects across the industry.
The Internet of Things
The Internet of Things (IoT) connects construction sites in new ways. A network of sensors, software and devices can connect people and provide real-time data. This maximizes efficiency and creates new ways to change the way work is done in construction. Real-time communication and collaboration between stakeholders are huge advantages to using IoT technology.
Investing in Employee Training
The worker shortage is having a noticeable effect on the construction industry. Finding and retaining adequate talent is a problem that will persist in 2024. New technology in training simulations, however, is making worker training more efficient. With VR and 3D environments, new employees can learn how to adapt and respond to a variety of situations and conditions.
Keep Ahead of the Curve With Our Construction Technology
As more emphasis is placed on the new technologies of the construction industry, keeping up with them becomes more important. At Alta, we provide a collection of industry-leading tools and powerful technology that you can use for every project. Be productive, cutting-edge and competitive with our help. Alta can help you improve your quality and collaborate with clients in new ways.
Alta is a certified Minority Business Enterprise. We have licenses all over the United States and care about our clients and their industry. To find out more about what we can do for you and your next project, reach out to us today.