Construction Industry Trends for 2021

Here’s a look at 5 construction industry trends for 2021:

1. Cloud computing in construction

Cloud computing is certainly worth noting in the construction industry. But what does cloud computing really mean? Actually, the word says it all, you digitise all your business processes and your solution and data are no longer kept on a “server”, but rather they are stored and accessible from the cloud. In 2020, COVID-19 contributed for a number of construction businesses to make the move and work entirely in the cloud. A growing number of construction companies are expected to make the switch to the cloud in 2021. By working in the cloud, all your programs and data are accessible at any location and on any device. This way you can do your work anytime, anywhere.

2. Construction robotics

Another interesting trend is introducing robots to carry out repetitive activities in construction. It is estimated that robots will be playing an even bigger role in the construction process in years to come. They can help work faster, more accurately, eco-friendly and cost efficiently. One of the potential challenges for robots in construction is the fact that they are not static as in other industries and moving around on a construction site may sometimes be difficult. Hence, they are especially valuable in pre-fabrication and modular building. Both are becoming more common and improving while they are also available in a variety of budgets. Bricklaying robots such as SAM can build walls faster than humans which may potentially multiply the output in housebuilding sector. Furthermore, according to McKinsey technology could cut down about 30-40% of construction projects costs.

Another key construction industry trend to keep an eye on in 2021 is the use of exoskeletons. We could talk for hours about the apparent advantages that exosuits could bring to the sector. Transferring heavy loads or holding up heavy hand-tools for a long period of time when a worker is ‘suited up’ mean less injuries from overwork or accidents, less fatigue and better workmanship.

3. Use of drone technology in the construction industry

Are you already using drones in your construction company? They are already taking a large place in innovation in construction and often used for performing inspections which may be dangerous for a human and surveying large areas in short time. Certainly, they have hugely contributed to an increased productivity, provided a safer environment and will continue to play a vital role in 2021.

4. Rise of Artificial Intelligence in construction

Artificial Intelligence, Virtual Reality, Mixed Reality, Augmented reality, digital twins and robotics are terms that we are bound to be hearing more and more in 2021. The advantages of 3D printing in construction have already been explored and benefited from in many construction companies around the world. Reducing waste and automated production not limited by site staff’s working hours are only a couple of its benefits over conventional construction.

5. Integrate all digital processes

All-in-one integrated digital solutions tailored to the industry allow business owners and directors to benefit from real-time data and report to make better informed decisions managing resources, controlling costs and maximising margins. These new technologies take project control far beyond the cost overrun calculations and construction delays documenting. They improve the way construction businesses make decisions and run their companies. With an all-in-one software solution, business leaders have full visibility on their projects, cost to complete and predicted margins identifying and addressing any issues early. Having an integrated solution allowing you to have a real-time detailed overview of your business turns into a competitive advantage. With the increase in digital solutions, the importance of an integrated solution will only increase in 2021. Renowned software companies such as 4PS are already responding to this. Read more about 4PS Construct in our brochure.

Challenge for 2021

In 2021 a number of innovative solutions will be becoming more widely used in the construction sector. However, with the growing number of digital tools, construction businesses face a new challenge: how can you integrate all these processes into one system? Download the whitepaper: “5 Questions to ask about digitising your construction business”. In this whitepaper we cover everything you need to know about choosing the right solution and selecting a suitable partner for implementing the software.