There are a lot of technological changes happening in the construction industry that it’s even hard to ignore how it’s affecting the way construction projects are being handled. This isn’t surprising at all, because wherever we go, technology is there to find– be it in our home, or where we work.

That’s why the construction industry is no exception to this. The rapid changes are happening, together with the need to meet the demands of the clients, has encouraged business owners, project managers, engineers, and architects invest in technology.

Here are the 5 most essential advances in construction technology.

1. Robotics and 3D Printing

3D printing is being widely used on the construction site nowadays as these printers can produce building components, or even the building itself. This, together with another technology that utilizes concrete, and plastics make it possible to create and manufacture almost all kinds of structures quickly.

Aside from 3D printers, robots are also being useful in the construction site because they can place bricks, demolish, excavate, and even access the areas that aren’t accessible to humans because their safety would be compromised.

2. BIM

For those who are not familiar with the term, BIM is described as a single, collaborative, computerized system that merges technology with solid work processes. That means it can connect with other devices and ensure that everyone will be able to access relevant information in real time, including 3D representation of the building.

3. Job Site Devices That Are Rugged

Despite that wearables are being widely used in the construction industry, it still hasn’t reached the point where it has replaced mobile devices, and the reason for that is, it’s not yet fully developed to make that happen, but this is slowly changing.

Now, there are rugged devices that are ‘tougher’ than regular smartphones and tablets because they are dustproof, waterproof, and most of which are made using heavy-duty materials. This is perfect for workers who must deal with extreme tasks as it could withstand heavy usage.

4. Wearables

If you’re thinking of fitness trackers and consumer-grade smart watches, that’s not what we’re talking about. In the construction world, wearables are technological advances specifically made to withstand constant abuse and usage on the job site.

This includes smart helmets, safety vests, smart goggles, and the like that are embedded with sensors that allow it to communicate with other devices, and even equipment, such as waterfilled barriers, as long as they are also integrated with sensors. Though, aside from that, what makes wearables really promising is its ability to allow the wearers to communicate in real time and transmit data whenever it’s necessary. That’s why these devices are proven to be very useful not only in protecting the workers but improving efficiency and productivity as well.

5. UAVs

Last, but not least, would be UAVs. These are unmanned aerial vehicles, or what’s popularly referred to as drones. They are getting more and more popular because they can undertake tasks that are too dangerous for human workers.

That includes aerial survey even in the most hazardous areas. There are also advanced models that can take 3D images.