Construction industry trends - Revision history

Editor at 16:34, 6 January 2021

2021-01-06T16:34:35Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 16:34, 6 January 2021
Line 49:		Line 49:
	* Contractor.		* Contractor.
	* Drones.		* Drones.
		+	* Global construction market projections from 2020 to 2030.
	* Skills gap.		* Skills gap.
	* Virtual reality.		* Virtual reality.
	* UK construction industry.		* UK construction industry.

−	[[Category:International]] [[Category:Construction_management]] [[Category:Construction_techniques]]	+	[[Category:DCN_Commentary]] [[Category:DCN_News]] [[Category:DCN_Product_Knowledge]] [[Category:International]] [[Category:Construction_management]] [[Category:Construction_techniques]]

Designing Buildings: moved Top seven trends that will dominate the future of the construction industry to Construction industry trends

2019-05-30T06:55:55Z

moved Top seven trends that will dominate the future of the construction industry to Construction industry trends

← Older revision

Revision as of 06:55, 30 May 2019

Designing Buildings at 06:55, 30 May 2019

2019-05-30T06:55:28Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 06:55, 30 May 2019
Line 51:		Line 51:
	* Skills gap.		* Skills gap.
	* Virtual reality.		* Virtual reality.
−	* UK construction industry ~~for more information~~.	+	* UK construction industry.

	[[Category:International]] [[Category:Construction_management]] [[Category:Construction_techniques]]		[[Category:International]] [[Category:Construction_management]] [[Category:Construction_techniques]]

Designing Buildings at 06:55, 30 May 2019

2019-05-30T06:55:01Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 06:55, 30 May 2019
Line 25:		Line 25:
	[[File:Architect-architecture-attractive-background.jpeg\|link=File:Architect-architecture-attractive-background.jpeg]]		[[File:Architect-architecture-attractive-background.jpeg\|link=File:Architect-architecture-attractive-background.jpeg]]

−	=~~= Importance of drones =~~=	+	= Drones =

−	~~Although medical and manufacturing industries have been the top investors in drone technology, these~~ invaluable technical aides are slowly making their way into the construction arena. ~~Apart from government~~ agencies using them for tasks such as bridge inspection, emergency response, and traffic monitoring, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) can be used for collecting data, surveying large ~~tracts~~ of land ~~within minutes~~, ~~as well as~~ inspecting the progress of a project.	+	These invaluable technical aides are slowly making their way into the construction arena. Government agencies are using them for tasks such as bridge inspection, emergency response, and traffic monitoring, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) can also be used for collecting data, surveying large areas of land, inspecting the progress of a project and so on.
		+
		+	For more information see: Drones.

	[[File:Drone-674237_1280.jpg\|link=File:Drone-674237_1280.jpg]]		[[File:Drone-674237_1280.jpg\|link=File:Drone-674237_1280.jpg]]

−	== Augmented reality and virtual reality ==	+	= Augmented reality and virtual reality =

−	The evolving sophistication of the AR and VR technologies opens up new opportunities in improving the design and planning phases, by ~~[https://www.business.com/articles/how-virtual-reality-is-changing-construction/~~ enabling interactive simulations] of projects even before the ~~new~~ site has been surveyed. Virtual reality is ~~especially~~ useful when building in difficult or remote terrains, where site visits are challenging, while construction teams may need to communicate across long distances. This technology allows for instantaneous inspection and evaluation of the ~~jobsite~~. Although still in their infancy, today’s AR and VR solutions are expected to improve ~~over the years, as~~ the number of sites running trial versions is expected to increase ~~in the future~~.	+	The evolving sophistication of the AR and VR technologies opens up new opportunities in improving the design and planning phases, by enabling interactive simulations of projects even before the site has been surveyed. Virtual reality is particularly useful when building in difficult or remote terrains, where site visits are challenging, while construction teams may need to communicate across long distances. This technology allows for instantaneous inspection and evaluation of the site. Although still in their infancy, today’s AR and VR solutions are expected to improve and the number of sites running trial versions is expected to increase.

−	== Decreased labour workforce ==	+	= Decreased labour workforce =

−	In the US, there are currently nearly a quarter of a million open construction jobs, and the situation does not seem to be improving. With so many ongoing projects facing labour shortages, production has either stalled or slowed down. While many companies have turned to prefabricated and modular construction ~~in order~~ to meet project deadlines, the number of on-site workers is still dwindling. Since the unemployment rate is still very low, construction companies still find it hard to draw in new people.	+	In the US, there are currently nearly a quarter of a million open construction jobs, and the situation does not seem to be improving. With so many ongoing projects facing labour shortages, production has either stalled or slowed down. While many companies have turned to prefabricated and modular construction to meet project deadlines, the number of on-site workers is still dwindling. Since the unemployment rate is still very low, construction companies still find it hard to draw in new people.

−	When these old/new trends which are going to mark the years to come are examined, it can be seen that apart from labour shortages and material price rises, the remaining prospects are all heralding a positive outlook that ranges from improved project management software and the use of VR, to responsibly harvested materials and sustainable technologies, such as prefabricated construction.	+	For more information see: Skills gap.

	= Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki =		= Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki =

−	* ~~Building regulations.~~	+	* Augmented reality.
−	* Comparison of work stages.	+
−	* Construction contract.	+
−	* Construction industry institutes and associations.	+
−	* Construction industry organisation.	+
	* Construction industry.		* Construction industry.
	* Contractor.		* Contractor.
−	* ~~Planning permission~~.	+	* Drones.
−	* ~~Procurement route~~.	+	* Skills gap.
−	* ~~Subcontractor~~.	+	* Virtual reality.
	* UK construction industry for more information.		* UK construction industry for more information.

	[[Category:International]] [[Category:Construction_management]] [[Category:Construction_techniques]]		[[Category:International]] [[Category:Construction_management]] [[Category:Construction_techniques]]

Designing Buildings at 06:50, 30 May 2019

2019-05-30T06:50:45Z

Editor: moved Top 7 Trends That Will Dominate The Future of Construction Industry to Top seven trends that will dominate the future of the construction industry: seven not 7

2019-05-13T17:24:41Z

moved Top 7 Trends That Will Dominate The Future of Construction Industry to Top seven trends that will dominate the future of the construction industry: seven not 7

← Older revision

Revision as of 17:24, 13 May 2019

Editor at 17:23, 13 May 2019

2019-05-13T17:23:23Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 17:23, 13 May 2019
Line 42:		Line 42:

	When these old/new trends which are going to mark the years to come are examined, it can be seen that apart from labour shortages and material price rises, the remaining prospects are all heralding a positive outlook that ranges from improved project management software and the use of VR, to responsibly harvested materials and sustainable technologies, such as prefabricated construction.		When these old/new trends which are going to mark the years to come are examined, it can be seen that apart from labour shortages and material price rises, the remaining prospects are all heralding a positive outlook that ranges from improved project management software and the use of VR, to responsibly harvested materials and sustainable technologies, such as prefabricated construction.
		+
		+	= Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki =
		+
		+	* Building regulations.
		+	* Comparison of work stages.
		+	* Construction contract.
		+	* Construction industry institutes and associations.
		+	* Construction industry organisation.
		+	* Construction industry.
		+	* Contractor.
		+	* Planning permission.
		+	* Procurement route.
		+	* Subcontractor.
		+	* UK construction industry for more information.

	[[Category:International]] [[Category:Construction_management]] [[Category:Construction_techniques]]		[[Category:International]] [[Category:Construction_management]] [[Category:Construction_techniques]]

Editor at 17:22, 13 May 2019

2019-05-13T17:22:00Z

Mike Johnston: Created page with "With 2018 well behind us, now it’s the right time to take a look at some of the popular construction industry trends that refuse to retire. Keeping up with the latest trends wh..."

2019-05-13T10:33:00Z

Created page with "With 2018 well behind us, now it’s the right time to take a look at some of the popular construction industry trends that refuse to retire. Keeping up with the latest trends wh..."

New page

With 2018 well behind us, now it’s the right time to take a look at some of the popular construction industry trends that refuse to retire. Keeping up with the latest trends which are likely to survive well into 2019, not only helps your [https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Business_models_in_construction construction business] stay on the surface, but also prepares you for making future decisions. The last year has been an interesting one, with many changes in material use and computer-aided construction. Let’s look at the most persistent building trends that will mark the current year, as well.

[[File:Architecture-building-site-buildings-2138126.jpg]]

== Green building technologies ==

Green construction is based on building projects in an environmentally-friendly and resource-responsible way. It spirals through all the stages, from planning and design, to renovation and demolition. However, none of these [https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Green_building green construction approaches] is significantly different from traditional building, since the economy, durability, and functionality, still remain important elements of the process. Although the construction industry is accounted for about 20% of global emissions, the expanding population demands more buildings. The only viable way is to build sustainably, using technologies like recycled bricks, self-healing asphalt, and thermally driven AC systems.

[[File:Balconies-1031241 1280.jpg]]

== Modular and prefabricated elements ==

Modular construction companies owe their popularity mainly from the rate at which they can build residential and commercial objects. Based on assembling repetitive structures, [https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Modular_buildings modular construction] is an ideal approach for building office buildings, hotels and apartments. On the other hand, modular construction saves the companies a lot of time and money, but there is also a sustainable dimension to it. Since individual elements are manufactured in controlled off-site conditions, the excess material and wastage are reduced to a minimum, as it is the building site noise pollution.

[[File:Shipyard-2458150 1280.jpg]]

== Increased material cost ==

As it was rightfully predicted, construction material prices increased from 2-3% by the end of 2018, prompting many construction companies to consider would that mean to them and prepare in order to stay competitive. Analysed by the Associated Builders and Contractors, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data confirms the increase in material prices. The declining prices of 2015 and 2016 have now almost been completely forgotten, as the increase in demand driven by ramped-up building activity is increasing the cost of iron and steel, steel mill products, and softwood lumber. However, there are also extra-industrial factors to blame, like energy prices and a more stable global market.

== Use of project management software ==

Although the construction industry is known to be a bit sluggish when it comes to jumping onto the technology bandwagon, the use of project management software seems to be a trend that is cemented in place. The software products are becoming more advanced, with features being added constantly. For example, by using a cloud-based software platforms, [https://www.mcgqs.com.au/ experienced quantity surveyors] are able to efficiently manage any designs that advance away from the preliminary concept, establishing a working budget for structural and finishing elements, taking into account the complete architectural specs, structural constraints, schedules and services. Such an intelligent and streamlined approach to construction cost estimating significantly improves navigation between different tools, as well as the transparency, accountability, and efficiency.

[[File:Architect-architecture-attractive-background.jpeg]]

== Importance of drones ==

Although the medical and manufacturing industries have been the top investors in drone technology, these invaluable technical aides are slowly making their way into construction arena. Apart from government agencies using them for tasks such as bridge inspection, emergency response, and traffic monitoring, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) can be used for collecting data, surveying large tracts of land within minutes, as well as inspecting the progress of a project.

[[File:Drone-674237 1280.jpg]]

== Augmented reality and virtual reality ==

The evolving sophistication of the AR and VR technologies opens up new opportunities in improving their design and planning phases, by [https://www.business.com/articles/how-virtual-reality-is-changing-construction/ enabling interactive simulations] of projects even before the new site has been surveyed. Virtual reality is especially useful when building in difficult or remote terrains, where site visits are challenging, while construction teams may need to communicate across long distances. This technology allows for instantaneous inspection and evaluation of the jobsite. Although still in their infancy, today’s AR and VR solutions are expected to improve over the years, as the number of site running trial version is expected to increase in the future.

== Decreased labour workforce ==

In the U.S., there are currently nearly a quarter million open construction jobs, and the situation doesn’t seem to be improving. With so many ongoing projects facing labour shortage, production has either stalled or slowed down. While many companies have turned to prefabricated and modular construction in order to meet project deadlines, the number of on-site workers is still dwindling. Since the unemployment rate is still very low, construction companies still find it hard to draw in new people.

When we look at these old/new trends which are going to mark the years to come, we see that apart from labour shortage and material price increases, the remaining prospects are all heralding a positive outlook that ranges from improved project management software and the use of VR, to responsibly harvested materials and sustainable technologies like prefabricated construction.

[[Category:Construction_management]] [[Category:Construction_techniques]]

← Older revision		Revision as of 06:50, 30 May 2019
Line 1:		Line 1:
−	~~With 2018 well behind us, now is the right time to take a look at some of the popular construction industry trends that refuse to retire.~~ Keeping up with the latest trends ~~which are likely to survive well into 2019, not only~~ helps ~~your [https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Business_models_in_construction~~ construction business] stay on ~~the surface, but also~~ prepares ~~you~~ for ~~making~~ future ~~decisions.~~	+	Keeping up with the latest trends helps construction business stay on top of their game and helps them prepares for future challenges.
−		+
−	~~The last year has been an interesting one, with many changes in material use and computer-aided construction. Let us look at the most persistent building trends that will mark the current year~~.	+

	[[File:Architecture-building-site-buildings-2138126.jpg\|link=File:Architecture-building-site-buildings-2138126.jpg]]		[[File:Architecture-building-site-buildings-2138126.jpg\|link=File:Architecture-building-site-buildings-2138126.jpg]]

−	== Green building technologies ==	+	= Green building technologies =

−	Green construction is based on building projects in an environmentally-friendly and resource-responsible way. It spirals through all the stages, from planning and design, to renovation and demolition. However, ~~none of these [https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Green_building~~ green construction approaches~~] is~~ significantly different from traditional building, since the economy, durability, and functionality, still remain important elements of the process. Although the construction ~~industryaccounts~~ for about 20% of global emissions, expanding populations demand more buildings. The only viable way is to build sustainably, using technologies like recycled bricks, self-healing asphalt, and thermally-driven AC systems.	+	Green construction is based on building projects in an environmentally-friendly and resource-responsible way. It spirals through all the stages, from planning and design, to renovation and demolition. However, many green construction approaches are not significantly different from traditional building, since the economy, durability, and functionality, still remain important elements of the process. Although the construction industry accounts for about 20% of global emissions, expanding populations demand more buildings. The only viable way is to build sustainably, using technologies like recycled bricks, self-healing asphalt, and thermally-driven AC systems.

	[[File:Balconies-1031241_1280.jpg\|link=File:Balconies-1031241_1280.jpg]]		[[File:Balconies-1031241_1280.jpg\|link=File:Balconies-1031241_1280.jpg]]

−	== Modular and prefabricated elements ==	+	= Modular and prefabricated elements =

−	Modular construction companies owe their popularity mainly from the rate at which they can build residential and commercial objects. Based on assembling repetitive structures, ~~[https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Modular_buildings~~ modular construction~~] is an ideal~~ approach for building office buildings, hotels and apartments. ~~On the other hand, modular~~ construction ~~saves the~~ companies a lot of time and money, but there is also a sustainable dimension to it. Since individual elements are manufactured in controlled off-site conditions, the excess material and wastage are reduced to a minimum, as is building-site noise pollution.	+	Modular construction companies owe their popularity mainly from the rate at which they can build residential and commercial objects. Based on assembling repetitive structures, modular construction can be a good approach for building office buildings, hotels and apartments. Modular construction can save companies a lot of time and money, but there is also a sustainable dimension to it. Since individual elements are manufactured in controlled off-site conditions, the excess material and wastage are reduced to a minimum, as is building-site noise pollution and potential health and safety risks.

	[[File:Shipyard-2458150_1280.jpg\|link=File:Shipyard-2458150_1280.jpg]]		[[File:Shipyard-2458150_1280.jpg\|link=File:Shipyard-2458150_1280.jpg]]

−	== Increased material cost ==	+	= Increased material cost =

−	~~As correctly predicted, construction material~~ prices increased from 2-3% by the end of 2018, prompting many construction companies to consider what that would mean to them and to prepare to stay competitive. Analysed by the Associated Builders and Contractors, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics data confirms the increase in material prices. The declining prices of 2015 and 2016 have now almost been completely forgotten, as the increase in demand driven by ramped-up building activity is increasing the cost of iron and steel, steel-mill products, and softwood ~~lumber~~. ~~However, there~~ are also extra-industrial factors to ~~blame~~, ~~like~~ energy prices ~~and a more stable global market~~.	+	Material prices increased from 2-3% by the end of 2018, prompting many construction companies to consider what that would mean to them and to prepare to stay competitive. Analysed by the Associated Builders and Contractors, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics data confirms the increase in material prices. The declining prices of 2015 and 2016 have now almost been completely forgotten, as the increase in demand driven by ramped-up building activity is increasing the cost of iron and steel, steel-mill products, and softwood timber. There are also extra-industrial factors to consider, such as energy prices.

−	=~~= Use of project~~ management software ==	+	= Project management software =

−	Although the construction industry ~~is known to~~ be ~~a bit sluggish when it comes~~ to ~~jumping onto the~~ technology ~~bandwagon~~, the use of project management software seems to be a trend ~~that is cemented in place~~. ~~The software~~ products are becoming more advanced, with features being added constantly. For example, by using cloud-based software platforms, ~~[https://www.mcgqs.com.au/ experienced~~ quantity surveyors] are able to efficiently manage ~~any designs that move away from the preliminary concept~~, establishing a working budget for structural and finishing elements, taking into account the ~~complete~~ architectural ~~specs~~, structural constraints, schedules and services. Such an intelligent and streamlined approach to construction cost estimating significantly improves ~~navigation between different tools, as well as~~ transparency, accountability and efficiency.	+	Although the construction industry can be slow to adopt new technology, the use of project management software seems to be a strong trend. Software products are becoming more advanced, with features being added constantly. For example, by using cloud-based software platforms, quantity surveyors are able to efficiently manage design, establishing a working budget for structural and finishing elements, taking into account the architectural specifications, structural constraints, schedules and services. Such an intelligent and streamlined approach to construction cost estimating significantly improves transparency, accountability and efficiency.

	[[File:Architect-architecture-attractive-background.jpeg\|link=File:Architect-architecture-attractive-background.jpeg]]		[[File:Architect-architecture-attractive-background.jpeg\|link=File:Architect-architecture-attractive-background.jpeg]]

← Older revision		Revision as of 17:22, 13 May 2019
Line 1:		Line 1:
−	With 2018 well behind us, now ~~it’s~~ the right time to take a look at some of the popular construction industry trends that refuse to retire. Keeping up with the latest trends which are likely to survive well into 2019, not only helps your [https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Business_models_in_construction construction business] stay on the surface, but also prepares you for making future decisions. The last year has been an interesting one, with many changes in material use and computer-aided construction. Let’s look at the most persistent building trends that will mark the current year, as well.	+	With 2018 well behind us, now is the right time to take a look at some of the popular construction industry trends that refuse to retire. Keeping up with the latest trends which are likely to survive well into 2019, not only helps your [https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Business_models_in_construction construction business] stay on the surface, but also prepares you for making future decisions.

−	[[File:Architecture-building-site-buildings-2138126.jpg]]	+	The last year has been an interesting one, with many changes in material use and computer-aided construction. Let us look at the most persistent building trends that will mark the current year.
		+
		+	[[File:Architecture-building-site-buildings-2138126.jpg\|link=File:Architecture-building-site-buildings-2138126.jpg]]

	== Green building technologies ==		== Green building technologies ==

−	Green construction is based on building projects in an environmentally-friendly and resource-responsible way. It spirals through all the stages, from planning and design, to renovation and demolition. However, none of these [https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Green_building green construction approaches] is significantly different from traditional building, since the economy, durability, and functionality, still remain important elements of the process. Although the construction ~~industry is accounted~~ for about 20% of global emissions, ~~the~~ expanding ~~population demands~~ more buildings. The only viable way is to build sustainably, using technologies like recycled bricks, self-healing asphalt, and thermally driven AC systems.	+	Green construction is based on building projects in an environmentally-friendly and resource-responsible way. It spirals through all the stages, from planning and design, to renovation and demolition. However, none of these [https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Green_building green construction approaches] is significantly different from traditional building, since the economy, durability, and functionality, still remain important elements of the process. Although the construction industryaccounts for about 20% of global emissions, expanding populations demand more buildings. The only viable way is to build sustainably, using technologies like recycled bricks, self-healing asphalt, and thermally-driven AC systems.

−	[[File:Balconies-~~1031241 1280~~.jpg]]	+	[[File:Balconies-1031241_1280.jpg\|link=File:Balconies-1031241_1280.jpg]]

	== Modular and prefabricated elements ==		== Modular and prefabricated elements ==

−	Modular construction companies owe their popularity mainly from the rate at which they can build residential and commercial objects. Based on assembling repetitive structures, [https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Modular_buildings modular construction] is an ideal approach for building office buildings, hotels and apartments. On the other hand, modular construction saves the companies a lot of time and money, but there is also a sustainable dimension to it. Since individual elements are manufactured in controlled off-site conditions, the excess material and wastage are reduced to a minimum, as it is ~~the~~ building site noise pollution.	+	Modular construction companies owe their popularity mainly from the rate at which they can build residential and commercial objects. Based on assembling repetitive structures, [https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Modular_buildings modular construction] is an ideal approach for building office buildings, hotels and apartments. On the other hand, modular construction saves the companies a lot of time and money, but there is also a sustainable dimension to it. Since individual elements are manufactured in controlled off-site conditions, the excess material and wastage are reduced to a minimum, as is building-site noise pollution.

−	[[File:Shipyard-~~2458150 1280~~.jpg]]	+	[[File:Shipyard-2458150_1280.jpg\|link=File:Shipyard-2458150_1280.jpg]]

	== Increased material cost ==		== Increased material cost ==

−	As ~~it was rightfully~~ predicted, construction material prices increased from 2-3% by the end of 2018, prompting many construction companies to consider ~~would~~ that mean to them and prepare ~~in order~~ to stay competitive. Analysed by the Associated Builders and Contractors, the ~~U.S.~~ Bureau of Labor Statistics data confirms the increase in material prices. The declining prices of 2015 and 2016 have now almost been completely forgotten, as the increase in demand driven by ramped-up building activity is increasing the cost of iron and steel, steel mill products, and softwood lumber. However, there are also extra-industrial factors to blame, like energy prices and a more stable global market.	+	As correctly predicted, construction material prices increased from 2-3% by the end of 2018, prompting many construction companies to consider what that would mean to them and to prepare to stay competitive. Analysed by the Associated Builders and Contractors, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics data confirms the increase in material prices. The declining prices of 2015 and 2016 have now almost been completely forgotten, as the increase in demand driven by ramped-up building activity is increasing the cost of iron and steel, steel-mill products, and softwood lumber. However, there are also extra-industrial factors to blame, like energy prices and a more stable global market.

	== Use of project management software ==		== Use of project management software ==

−	Although the construction industry is known to be a bit sluggish when it comes to jumping onto the technology bandwagon, the use of project management software seems to be a trend that is cemented in place. The software products are becoming more advanced, with features being added constantly. For example, by using a cloud-based software platforms, [https://www.mcgqs.com.au/ experienced quantity surveyors] are able to efficiently manage any designs that ~~advance~~ away from the preliminary concept, establishing a working budget for structural and finishing elements, taking into account the complete architectural specs, structural constraints, schedules and services. Such an intelligent and streamlined approach to construction cost estimating significantly improves navigation between different tools, as well as ~~the~~ transparency, accountability, and efficiency.	+	Although the construction industry is known to be a bit sluggish when it comes to jumping onto the technology bandwagon, the use of project management software seems to be a trend that is cemented in place. The software products are becoming more advanced, with features being added constantly. For example, by using cloud-based software platforms, [https://www.mcgqs.com.au/ experienced quantity surveyors] are able to efficiently manage any designs that move away from the preliminary concept, establishing a working budget for structural and finishing elements, taking into account the complete architectural specs, structural constraints, schedules and services. Such an intelligent and streamlined approach to construction cost estimating significantly improves navigation between different tools, as well as transparency, accountability and efficiency.

−	[[File:Architect-architecture-attractive-background.jpeg]]	+	[[File:Architect-architecture-attractive-background.jpeg\|link=File:Architect-architecture-attractive-background.jpeg]]

	== Importance of drones ==		== Importance of drones ==

−	Although ~~the~~ medical and manufacturing industries have been the top investors in drone technology, these invaluable technical aides are slowly making their way into construction arena. Apart from government agencies using them for tasks such as bridge inspection, emergency response, and traffic monitoring, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) can be used for collecting data, surveying large tracts of land within minutes, as well as inspecting the progress of a project.	+	Although medical and manufacturing industries have been the top investors in drone technology, these invaluable technical aides are slowly making their way into the construction arena. Apart from government agencies using them for tasks such as bridge inspection, emergency response, and traffic monitoring, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) can be used for collecting data, surveying large tracts of land within minutes, as well as inspecting the progress of a project.

−	[[File:Drone-~~674237 1280~~.jpg]]	+	[[File:Drone-674237_1280.jpg\|link=File:Drone-674237_1280.jpg]]

	== Augmented reality and virtual reality ==		== Augmented reality and virtual reality ==

−	The evolving sophistication of the AR and VR technologies opens up new opportunities in improving ~~their~~ design and planning phases, by [https://www.business.com/articles/how-virtual-reality-is-changing-construction/ enabling interactive simulations] of projects even before the new site has been surveyed. Virtual reality is especially useful when building in difficult or remote terrains, where site visits are challenging, while construction teams may need to communicate across long distances. This technology allows for instantaneous inspection and evaluation of the jobsite. Although still in their infancy, today’s AR and VR solutions are expected to improve over the years, as the number of ~~site~~ running trial ~~version~~ is expected to increase in the future.	+	The evolving sophistication of the AR and VR technologies opens up new opportunities in improving the design and planning phases, by [https://www.business.com/articles/how-virtual-reality-is-changing-construction/ enabling interactive simulations] of projects even before the new site has been surveyed. Virtual reality is especially useful when building in difficult or remote terrains, where site visits are challenging, while construction teams may need to communicate across long distances. This technology allows for instantaneous inspection and evaluation of the jobsite. Although still in their infancy, today’s AR and VR solutions are expected to improve over the years, as the number of sites running trial versions is expected to increase in the future.

	== Decreased labour workforce ==		== Decreased labour workforce ==

−	In the ~~U.S.~~, there are currently nearly a quarter million open construction jobs, and the situation ~~doesn’t~~ seem to be improving. With so many ongoing projects facing labour ~~shortage~~, production has either stalled or slowed down. While many companies have turned to prefabricated and modular construction in order to meet project deadlines, the number of on-site workers is still dwindling. Since the unemployment rate is still very low, construction companies still find it hard to draw in new people.	+	In the US, there are currently nearly a quarter of a million open construction jobs, and the situation does not seem to be improving. With so many ongoing projects facing labour shortages, production has either stalled or slowed down. While many companies have turned to prefabricated and modular construction in order to meet project deadlines, the number of on-site workers is still dwindling. Since the unemployment rate is still very low, construction companies still find it hard to draw in new people.

−	When ~~we look at~~ these old/new trends which are going to mark the years to come, ~~we see~~ that apart from labour ~~shortage~~ and material price ~~increases~~, the remaining prospects are all heralding a positive outlook that ranges from improved project management software and the use of VR, to responsibly harvested materials and sustainable technologies ~~like~~ prefabricated construction.	+	When these old/new trends which are going to mark the years to come are examined, it can be seen that apart from labour shortages and material price rises, the remaining prospects are all heralding a positive outlook that ranges from improved project management software and the use of VR, to responsibly harvested materials and sustainable technologies, such as prefabricated construction.

−	[[Category:Construction_management]] [[Category:Construction_techniques]]	+	[[Category:International]] [[Category:Construction_management]] [[Category:Construction_techniques]]