The Mobile Solution

In recent times, the UK government has set out to improve construction productivity. As an industry that is integral to an economy’s growth, boosting productivity and earnings is a high priority for the current government.

To achieve this, the government is looking to digitalise, specifically incorporating AI, data based technologies and mobility orientated initiatives. This is greatly supported by workers in the industry themselves where over three-quarters of them agree that better digitalisation will lead to greater productivity. Use of the cloud, AI and versatile digital devices can improve everything on a construction site from productivity to project management. All of which will ultimately lead to one thing: Growth.

But, more importantly, how can construction companies boost their productivity through digitalisation?

Business Information Modelling (BIM)

Since it was made mandatory for public sector projects to utilise BIM, it has become a key factor of the digital construction revolution. Essentially, it has modernised the project management processes, encouraged greater transparency and improved efficiency greatly across the sector.

With BIM up and running, workers can add information to the model allowing everyone an all-encompassing well of information and data to a specific project.

Mobilise where possible

The majority of business processes can be mobilised through BIM-based software, cloud-based processes as well as mobile apps meaning workers can find and utilise them more easily. These apps and digital versions are replacing paper-based systems which are not only more effective but also environmentally friendly. Processes such as timesheets and payslips can also be made mobile meaning that they can be easily viewed and updated on a smartphone, streamlining the entire system. In fact, the potential of mobilisation is essentially limitless, the only requirement normally being access to a smartphone, tablet or laptop.

Site ready systems

Construction is an industry where things can get broken or damaged easily, therefore, it is vital that these devices are able to operate effectively in harsh conditions. This not only ensures reliable site usage, but it negates the necessity to continually buy and replace expensive equipment. By making sure that these devices are robust, rugged and reliable, it maintains the high level of productivity, that workers, companies and the government are looking to achieve.

The sector of the future

Technology is revolutionising everything and it’s important that construction doesn’t fall behind other industries in regards to digitalisation. Investing in modernisation can only lead to greater productivity. Incorporating mobile applications into the daily running of an organisation can save time and money on sites, allowing workers to effectively complete their jobs with less hassle. Construction companies also need to be forward thinking, if they see a problem that could be fixed or improved by an app, they should be proactive and look to design one. Innovation has always been a key concept in construction, this needs to be applied to the digitalisation of the industry.