CXOToday has engaged in an exclusive interview withMr. Paul Wallett, Regional Director for Trimble, Middle-East and India region.
- How can data technologies enhance collaboration and communication among various stakeholders in the construction industry?
Data-driven construction is a major emerging trend worldwide and many progressive contractors and construction companies are investing significant resources in collecting and analyzing data for better decision-making at all stages of construction.
The foundation for data-driven construction was laid with the digitalisation of various workflows. With Internet-connected (IOT) sensors embedded throughout equipment at worksites collecting real-time data about various parameters like temperature, humidity, equipment usage, and workforce productivity; the collected data can be run through analytics software leading to an overall improvement in the project outcomes.
Additionally, historical data collected from these digitalised workflows over dozens of projects is being put to advanced analytics tools to predict errors, delays and cost overruns with striking accuracy, allowing contractors to unlock unprecedented efficiencies at multiple stages of a project. Cutting-edge data analytics tools can even predict potential issues, optimize resource allocation, and improve risk management, ultimately leading to cost savings and improved productivity.
Further, data analytics and AI or machine learning (ML) based tools enhance day-to-day communications among various stakeholders of a large or complex construction project. From architect and engineering teams to general or concrete contractors, fabricators, and MEP contractors – all stakeholders are relying on modern data technologies to streamline their internal processes, enhance collaboration, and improve overall project outcomes.
Real-time data sharing is one of the biggest advantages of using modern data technologies. Collaboration platforms featuring real-time data sharing allow project stakeholders to instantly access and update project information, which reduces the need for time-consuming email exchanges and physical document transfers, promoting seamless information flow.
Building Information Modeling (BIM) systems typically sit at the core of data sharing platforms designed for construction. Today’s cutting-edge BIM from players like Trimble facilitates the creation of a ‘digital twin’ of a construction project. Once a ‘digital twin’ is made and shared with all stakeholders, real-time updates further ensure that everyone is on the same page, and the possibility of miscommunication or mistakes due to erroneous understanding of the model reduces to near zero.
Finally, modern data technologies also support remote collaboration, which has become exceedingly important today as a means of enhancing productivity of offsite engineering or project management teams. Video conferencing, cloud-based project management tools, and virtual reality simulations enable engineers or project managers to communicate remotely and effectively even when they are geographically dispersed.
- How can data technologies, such as IoT sensors and real-time data analytics, improve the efficiency and safety of construction projects?
IoT sensors are being widely used today in construction projects worldwide to collect real-time data from construction equipment, material inventories, and even human workers (through sensors embedded in hard hats or other safety equipment), as a precursor to timely and informed decision making. This data is continuously collected and allows project supervisors or managers to have a real-time view of key parameters like equipment performance, inventory levels for key materials, environmental conditions, and worker movement.
When combined with tools capable of real-time data analytics, IOT sensors have a transformative impact on how modern construction is carried out. In terms of efficiency, IOT-enabled construction helps optimize resource allocation, reducing equipment downtime and improving project timelines. For example, by monitoring equipment usage over days, hours or even minutes, managers can schedule maintenance proactively, avoiding costly breakdowns.
Real-time analytics also help in inventory management, ensuring that supplies for cement, rebar and other materials are replenished just in time, reducing waste, and cutting storage costs.
In the realm of worksite safety, the IOT sensors play a crucial role in hazard detection and worker well-being. While environment tracking sensors can raise alerts in case of gas leaks; sensors embedded inside beams and other structural components can monitor abnormal vibrations to raise alarms in case the structural integrity is found to be compromised.
Further, wearable sensors are often embedded in workers’ hard hats or uniforms and can track their movements and vital health parameters, enabling prompt response to accidents or health issues like fatigue or exhaustion.
Combined together, these distributed approaches to enhancing worksite safety using IOT sensors are already bearing results; by identifying potential risks or dangers in real time, raising alerts for any imminent accidents, and enabling preventive maintenance and other routines for equipment that go a long way in improving overall site safety.
- What are the key challenges and opportunities in integrating data technologies like Building Information Modeling (BIM) into construction project workflows?
Building Information Modelling (BIM) is much more than just a 3D model of a building’s physical and functional characteristics. Instead, BIM entails creating an information-rich digital 3D model of a building that accurately represents all the measurements and parameters of the final constructed building. When this digital 3D model is 100% accurate representation of the finished building, we call it a ‘digital twin’. While many software solutions are available that can help create a 3D model of a building, only an advanced BIM is powerful enough to create a true ‘digital twin’.
Today, BIM-created models are widely used throughout the lifecycle of a building – from planning and design stage to actual construction, handover, and later operations and maintenance. This integration brings forth tremendous advantages for construction companies, promising not only improved efficiency, and cost savings, but also enhanced collaboration, and the ability to make informed decisions throughout the construction process.
However, BIM integration is not without its challenges, from the initial investments needed for the software and training, to propagating a culture change throughout the organisation that makes employees individually and collectively value the advantages of using BIM and other data technologies.
While construction has historically been a low margin business, smaller construction companies may find the costs of investing in BIM, software, hardware, and training prohibitive. Further, shifting to a BIM-centric workflow also requires a change in mindset and work processes. Resistance to change among team members and stakeholders can hinder or even derail the adoption. Therefore, when a transition to BIM-based workflows is envisaged, construction companies are also advised to plan and implement effective change management strategies and training programs to help their staff adapt to new ways of working.
- How is Trimble working with construction data and making it useful for the industry?
Trimble specializes in providing advanced solutions for various industries, including construction. We have been actively working with construction data to make it more useful and efficient for the construction industry. Here are some ways Trimble is involved in this process:
Data Collection and Integration: Trimble offers a range of hardware and software solutions for data collection in construction. We provide tools like GPS and GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) technology for precise positioning and data capture on construction sites. This data is then integrated into their software platforms for analysis and decision-making.
Construction Management Software: We provides construction management software that helps contractors and construction professionals manage projects more effectively. This software includes features for project scheduling, cost estimation, budgeting, and resource allocation, all of which rely on data to streamline processes.
Building Information Modeling (BIM): Trimble supports the use of BIM in construction projects. BIM involves creating detailed digital representations of a building’s physical and functional characteristics. Trimble’s solutions help in capturing and utilizing BIM data for better project planning, design, and collaboration.
Data Analytics: Trimble’s software platforms include data analytics capabilities. They analyze the data collected from various sources, such as sensors and equipment, to provide insights into project performance. These insights can help project managers make informed decisions and optimize construction processes.
Machine Control and Automation: The company offers technology for machine control and automation in construction. This includes solutions for grading, paving, and drilling equipment. These systems use data to precisely control machines, improving accuracy and efficiency in construction tasks.
Telematics and Fleet Management: We provides telematics and fleet management solutions to track and manage construction equipment and vehicles. These solutions use data to monitor equipment health, track fuel consumption, and optimize equipment usage, reducing downtime and costs.
Asset Management: Further our solutions also help in managing construction assets efficiently. They track the location, status, and maintenance needs of equipment and materials, ensuring that resources are used effectively.
Collaboration and Communication: In addition we have collaboration tools and communication platforms to facilitate better communication and data sharing among project stakeholders, including architects, engineers, contractors, and subcontractors.
Overall, Trimble’s focus on data collection, integration, analysis, and automation is aimed at improving the productivity, accuracy, and efficiency of construction projects. By making construction data more accessible and actionable, Trimble helps the industry save time and resources while delivering higher-quality results.
