1 mins
POSITIVE STEPS
The world of construction technology is changing – it might not be altering as fast as some in the sector would hope, but it is definitely changing. Technology that in previous years might have only been on larger and more expensive construction equipment are now seen with increasing frequency on smaller pieces of kit as the cost of the technology comes down. Software is becoming smarter and, crucially, easier to use, than ever before.
Small and medium sized contractors, that might have been reluctant to be one of the first in their area to dip their toes into the world of construction technology, will have now seen increasing number of their competitors take the plunge and enjoy the increased productivity and efficiency benefits that technology brings. The next generation of construction managers will have grown up with technology as a common part of their lives and will want to embrace this at work.
On top of all of this, as the world increasingly looks to construction to reduce its carbon emissions, technology is the key tool for the sector to do this.
Like construction itself, construction technology is a broad subject and covers a whole array of areas that are mini-industries in themselves. In this review we pull together a selection of the best articles that we’ve published over the last 12 months on this vital and fascinating subject, covering BIM, surveying technology, robotics, machine control, connected construction, as well as two choice interviews.
The pace of change may be slower than some would like, but change is happening and the pace is picking up year after year. There’s only one direction of travel for construction, and that’s to a future where technology is the norm.
ANDY BROWN Editor International Construction
CATRIN JONES Editor Construction Europe
MITCHELL KELLER Deputy Editor International Construction