Advances in field technology and real time reporting have many benefits. Among the most often cited are from the reduction in construction time to provide significant savings with less rework for construction operations with improved quality and productivity. The construction industry lags compared to most industries in regard to utilizing advances in field technology and real time reporting. The primary objective of this research study was to identify how technology and real time reporting can improve construction productivity. The following summarizes the findings in each of these field technology and real time reporting areas:
Construction Technologies
Recent exponential growth in computer networks and wireless capabilities, coupled with more powerful software application, has made it possible to apply information technologies in all phases of the building/facility life cycle. These advances will reduce construction time to a fraction of today’s averages by more effectively orchestrating and closely monitoring the use of labor, equipment and materials on the job site, and will thus provide significant savings through schedule compression, materials and work package optimization and labor reduction, with less rework for construction operations (E4-1, page 5).
Wireless Technologies
Wireless data networks are now common in many office and industrial settings. Wireless data communications offer distinct advantages over wired systems on active construction sites, and the construction industry is starting to adopt such wireless technologies. Wireless systems allow reliable communications in the dynamic and physically harsh construction site environment. In addition, wireless data communications systems represent a significant economic savings over traditional systems by eliminating the need to install expensive fixed infrastructure (e.g., fixed cabling and power sources) for the duration of a construction project (E4-3, page 1).
GPS Technologies
GPS technology can further improve the tracking and locating of tagged materials, specifically fabricated pipe spools, in construction laydown storage. While materials management has been the focus of much industry research, material handling procedures on the construction site have been relatively unexamined and present potential for significant improvements. According to a CII study, the implementation of a basic materials management system on a construction job site conservatively produces 6% improvement in craft labor productivity, while implementation of computerized control provides an additional gain between 4% and 6% (CII, 1986). These technologies were integrated with materials management processes, technology devices, and project management systems. (E4-5, page 10).
Real-Time Field Reporting Using Smart Devices
Based on the research, smart devices offer a variety of features that can be used to perform various construction activities with more comfort and in less time. Mobile devices on construction job sites, used to help perform various construction activities in real time to enhance communication among various stakeholders, will increase the productivity and profitability of construction projects (E4-11, page 6).
Augmented Reality Technologies
Augmented Reality is defined as “a live direct or indirect view of a physical, real-world environment whose elements are augmented by virtual, computer-generated imagery.” The intended use of this technology is to help site personnel more efficiently handle and interpret the growing amount of onsite digital information. The use of 3D models and handheld devices, coupled with Augmented Reality technology, enables an operator, engineer, or maintenance technician to better understand advanced modeling data. In addition, it allows personnel to work in a novel, more direct, and intuitive way than they would with written instructions or electronic manuals. This technology provides an alternative perspective to designs through a first-person, immersed interface and interactive mock-up of 3D models (E4-11, page 6).