Construction is just one of many industries that can be described as hesitant to adopt digital solutions despite the numerous benefits modern technology can provide. Digital can improve efficiency, productivity, safety, sustainability, and overall project success, so it deserves proper consideration within the industry.
Here are just some of the ways digital technology can make a positive difference to the construction industry.
Cost efficiency
Embracing digital solutions can lead to cost savings through improved project planning, reduced material wastage, better resource management, and streamlined processes.
Take procurement for example: digital can improve this process by bringing together information in one location, giving stakeholders better visibility of purchasing activity, enhancing opportunities for collaboration between teams, reducing the risk of waste, enabling thorough price comparison and ultimately generating cost savings.
Sustainability & green building
Digital solutions can help facilitate sustainable construction practices, such as energy-efficient design, material recycling, and the use of eco-friendly construction materials. Switching to digital can also streamline documentation and reduce the need for paper-based processes, which increases efficiency alongside reducing negative environmental impact.
Our digital procurement platform enables contractors and housebuilders to meet their sustainability goals and targets by facilitating access to local supply chains across the UK, minimising transport-related emissions from construction projects.
Increased collaboration
Digital tools facilitate real-time collaboration among different teams, contractors, and stakeholders, promoting smoother workflows and minimising delays caused by communication gaps.
At The Build Chain, we understand that the construction industry is built upon strong relationships, which is why we added live chat functionality to our online procurement platform. This allows contractors and suppliers to communicate with each other easily to ensure continued collaboration and maintenance of important relationships.
Enhanced productivity
New technology can be utilised to optimise project planning and design, leading to better resource allocation and improved productivity on construction sites. With many ongoing pressures continuing to affect the industry, it’s more important than ever to seek solutions that improve the productivity of the construction sector.
Real-time data and analytics
Digital solutions can provide access to real-time data and analytics, enabling construction companies to make data-driven decisions, identify bottlenecks, and optimise project workflows.
The Build Chain platform is an example of a digital solution that is designed to automatically collect and store the data construction teams need to make informed procurement decisions. This digital procurement footprint also makes governance and compliance easier in a non-intrusive way.
Improved quality control
Digital tools can assist with quality control and inspections, helping to identify defects and issues earlier in the construction process and enabling prompt corrective action.
Improved project management
Digital solutions can be used to streamline communication and collaboration among project stakeholders, ensuring everyone stays on the same page and reducing the risk of miscommunication or delays.
On-demand training and skill development
Online learning platforms and virtual training modules allow construction workers to access training resources conveniently, promoting continuous skill development which is invaluable in our industry.
The Build Chain recognises how important it is for the industry to have access to resources that allow easy access to up-to-date information, which is why we implemented virtual Manufacturer Expos on our platform. These online exhibitions allow manufacturers to share the latest product information and advice.
Enhanced safety
Digital technologies, such as virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) simulations, can be used for safety training, risk assessment, and identifying potential hazards on construction sites, potentially reducing accidents.
Addressing concerns about digital solutions
Despite the many potential benefits of embracing digital solutions, there are some concerns that must be addressed. These include cyber security, data privacy, the required learning curve, and integration with existing systems.
Accreditations like Cyber Essentials have been created to allow organisations to demonstrate their commitment to cyber security, so look out for this and similar certifications when seeking out digital solutions.
Meanwhile, many new technologies include comprehensive training materials and features that make integrations with other systems possible so it’s important to thoroughly research your options when in the market for a new digital tool to ensure you’re choosing the option that best meets your needs.
Summary
By embracing digital solutions, the construction industry can overcome traditional challenges, enhance project outcomes, reduce environmental impacts, and drive innovation in a sector that is critical for economic development and infrastructure improvement.
The Build Chain: a digital solution to procurement problems
Our online construction procurement platform was developed in direct response to some of the critical issues facing the construction industry today. Founded by a team with extensive experience in construction, procurement and digital platforms, we’re connecting Contractors nationally, to Suppliers locally. Book a demo today to experience the benefits firsthand.
