Automation technology is evolving across industries, and the construction industry is keeping up.
From automated digital design to automated documentation creation to communication via platforms like GLXY Software Solutions, the demand is there to indicate that automation will have a principal role in construction moving forward. As it stands, automated construction will push the industry to meet the needs of the population. As it grows, the types of demand, however, will be likely to change.
What Is Construction Automation?
When most people hear the word, “automation,” they’ll think of robots and space-age tech that look incredibly futuristic. The truth is that automation in construction is quite different from this imagined idea. Instead, while modern automation does include robotics today, automation got its start in the mid to late 1920s. At the time, the country was in the midst of a minor recession and machinery was something to be feared.
Later, robotics was first introduced to construction in the 1950s and through the 1970s when the industry was facing a labor shortage similar to where we are today. The result of adding robotics was an increase in a need for knowledgeable workers and thousands of people were added to payrolls across the industry.
Automation has changed since then. Now construction automation is the process of using technology to automate tasks that include data management and architectural design. In fact, automation can include anything from automating the creation of digital design files to using robots on construction sites to build homes or office buildings.
More recently, various tools automate the workloads that manual labor typically completes. This shift has forced the development of new processes as construction evolves to include automation as part of its standard operating procedures.
Automation in construction has been growing in popularity in recent years as companies seek ways to improve efficiency and accuracy while also reducing costs. It’s only natural to include these methods combined with workflows that work to advance the industry.
What Is Construction Automation?
When most people hear the word, “automation,” they’ll think of robots and space-age tech that look incredibly futuristic. The truth is that automation in construction is quite different from this imagined idea. Instead, while modern automation does include robotics today, automation got its start in the mid to late 1920s. At the time, the country was in the midst of a minor recession and machinery was something to be feared.
Later, robotics was first introduced to construction in the 1950s and through the 1970s when the industry was facing a labor shortage similar to where we are today. The result of adding robotics was an increase in a need for knowledgeable workers and thousands of people were added to payrolls across the industry.
Automation has changed since then. Now construction automation is the process of using technology to automate tasks that include data management and architectural design. In fact, automation can include anything from automating the creation of digital design files to using robots on construction sites to build homes or office buildings.
More recently, various tools automate the workloads that manual labor typically completes. This shift has forced the development of new processes as construction evolves to include automation as part of its standard operating procedures.
Automation in construction has been growing in popularity in recent years as companies seek ways to improve efficiency and accuracy while also reducing costs. It’s only natural to include these methods combined with workflows that work to advance the industry.
What Are the Benefits of Construction Automation?
What Are the Benefits of Construction Automation?
There are many benefits to using automation in construction. One of the most significant benefits is the potential to improve safety on construction sites. By automating certain tasks, such as material handling or site inspection, construction workers will be less likely to suffer injuries on the job.
Additionally, automation can help to improve accuracy and quality control on construction projects. When automated systems are used to create construction documents or manage construction data, the risk of human error goes down. This can save time and money by preventing mistakes that could lead to project delays or rework.
For example, in factory-based construction, it’s easy to see just how automation can be more environmentally friendly since it ultimately has a lesser impact on the environment. Less error means less waste, less water usage, and less electricity.
What Are the Challenges of Construction Automation?
Like with any new technology, there are always challenges that need to be addressed when implementing automation in construction. One of the biggest challenges is the high cost of automation equipment and software. This can be a barrier to entry for small construction companies. They may not have the budget to invest in automation technology. Additionally, another challenge is finding qualified workers who are able to operate automation equipment.
As the demand for automation grows, there will need to be a corresponding increase in the number of workers who are trained in automation technology. From an educational perspective, this will require colleges and universities to offer more courses and training programs in automation. In terms of the workforce, construction companies will need to invest in training their employees on how to use automation equipment.
Determining whether you need off-site or on-site construction automation also faces its own set of challenges. Off-site construction, such as in factory-based construction, can be the better choice to meet demands since it can run without much human help. On the other hand, on-site automation requires newer, out-of-the-box thinking to come up with machines that are both portable and easy to set up or tear down at the job sites.
What Are the Challenges of Construction Automation?
Like with any new technology, there are always challenges that need to be addressed when implementing automation in construction. One of the biggest challenges is the high cost of automation equipment and software. This can be a barrier to entry for small construction companies. They may not have the budget to invest in automation technology. Additionally, another challenge is finding qualified workers who are able to operate automation equipment.
As the demand for automation grows, there will need to be a corresponding increase in the number of workers who are trained in automation technology. From an educational perspective, this will require colleges and universities to offer more courses and training programs in automation. In terms of the workforce, construction companies will need to invest in training their employees on how to use automation equipment.
Determining whether you need off-site or on-site construction automation also faces its own set of challenges. Off-site construction, such as in factory-based construction, can be the better choice to meet demands since it can run without much human help. On the other hand, on-site automation requires newer, out-of-the-box thinking to come up with machines that are both portable and easy to set up or tear down at the job sites.
How Does Automation Help Construction?
How Does Automation Help Construction?
Industrial robotics plays a role in automated construction as cobots are robots that work with people. Bricklaying robots, as an example, are quicker at that particular job and make the work less repetitive for humans. The robot does the work while the human checks it over once it finishes, making sure everything is top-notch.
How Is Automation Changing the Industry?
The automation of construction tasks is changing the industry in a number of ways. One way is by increasing the demand for qualified workers who are able to operate automation equipment. There will need to be a corresponding increase in the number of workers with expertise in automation technology.
The increase in robotic use will also impact construction projects. Heavy-equipment manufacturers will be working on larger vehicles to make them more autonomous to remove the human element altogether. 3D printing will take place on site to build new structures. Laser scans will inspect construction sites more often.
How Is Automation Changing the Industry?
The automation of construction tasks is changing the industry in a number of ways. One way is by increasing the demand for qualified workers who are able to operate automation equipment. There will need to be a corresponding increase in the number of workers with expertise in automation technology.
The increase in robotic use will also impact construction projects. Heavy-equipment manufacturers will be working on larger vehicles to make them more autonomous to remove the human element altogether. 3D printing will take place on site to build new structures. Laser scans will inspect construction sites more often.
Looking Ahead — The Future of Automated Construction
Looking Ahead — The Future of Automated Construction
The future of construction is bright. As the cost of automation technology decreases and the benefits become more widely known, automation will be more commonplace in the industry. Not only does automation help finish projects faster, but it is also eco-friendly which leads to sustainable construction.
Additionally, as the workforce continues to evolve, there will be an increased demand for automation technology that can help construction companies to improve efficiency and accuracy while also reducing costs. Employee productivity will also continue to improve along with even better safety procedures and guidelines.
Labor shortages will become less of an issue, as automation will also work to attract a younger generation of workers. As more tasks become automated, workers that have the knowledge to handle the machinery can likely also expect a bump in pay because they have these skills that will be in demand.
A Few Final Thoughts
Eventually, automation will be fully adopted in construction. To stay competitive, it has to be a part of the industry. Over time, the construction industry will continue to evolve to find new and better ways to build. Automation solves a lot of problems, like labor shortage, and it will continue to grow in popularity.
Job sites will be safer, younger workers will bring new knowledge and skills, and construction will become more environmentally friendly. Communication will continue to improve by way of apps like the one from GLXY Software Solutions. Automation in construction can only improve the industry, and as more companies embrace it, the future of the industry will be ready to meet the demands that are yet to come.
If you’re interested in learning more about how GLXY Software Solutions can help you, or if you just want to know more about automation in construction, please reach out to us to learn more!
A Few Final Thoughts
Eventually, automation will be fully adopted in construction. To stay competitive, it has to be a part of the industry. Over time, the construction industry will continue to evolve to find new and better ways to build. Automation solves a lot of problems, like labor shortage, and it will continue to grow in popularity.
Job sites will be safer, younger workers will bring new knowledge and skills, and construction will become more environmentally friendly. Communication will continue to improve by way of apps like the one from GLXY Software Solutions. Automation in construction can only improve the industry, and as more companies embrace it, the future of the industry will be ready to meet the demands that are yet to come.
If you’re interested in learning more about how GLXY Software Solutions can help you, or if you just want to know more about automation in construction, please reach out to us to learn more!