--- title: "These Trends Are Expected in the Construction Industry 2019 – BIM and Digitalization" description: "In construction, the landscape is about to change dramatically - digitalization, BIM & Co. will open new chapters" url: "/en/blog/these-trends-are-expected-in-the-construction-industry-in-2019" lang: en --- # Trends in the Construction Industry 2019 – BIM and Digitalization The construction industry is evolving at a rapid pace. Where is the journey heading in 2019? Everything about current trends, BIM and the digitalization of the construction industry ## The Trends in Construction – Where Is the Journey Headed? Despite pleasing growth rates, the construction industry currently faces enormous challenges, as there is significant catching up to do in terms of **digitalization**, efficiency, **BIM** and environmental awareness. Added to this is the fact that due to increasing urbanization, more and more construction projects must be carried out in ever shorter timeframes, and neighboring areas and the environment should not be burdened by construction activities. This situation can only be addressed with innovative technology and a fundamental willingness to change. ## These Are the Trends in the Construction Industry 2019 ### Building Information Modeling (BIM) Although the industry has traditionally been anything but innovation-friendly, the general advancing **digitalization** will not bypass construction, as digital technologies can provide **increased efficiency and reduced costs** in this field. The tool of the hour in this regard is called **BIM** (_**Building Information Modeling**_). The powerful software allows computer-aided planning, construction and management of buildings of any type and complexity, the recording and management of all building data as well as the representation of construction projects as a 3D model. The use of BIM will continue to increase in 2019. ### Interdisciplinary Collaboration When constructing a building, multiple components must always fit seamlessly together. The architect's technical expertise, the craft and design skills of construction workers, the quality of building materials, the expert implementation of various construction types by engineers, and the timely and appropriate **availability** of suitable [work equipment and machinery](/) on site all play an important role. Especially in the early phase of a construction project, when it comes to tapping the technological potential of building elements and advancing the preliminary work and standardization of individual components, interdisciplinary teamwork saves time and money. As for machinery resource requirements, these can be covered cost-effectively by construction equipment rental providers, such as the Munich-based company [klarx](/). When architects, engineers and foremen work even more closely together than before, extensive construction projects can be reliably realized within time and budget constraints. [Get to know klarx](/en/benefits) ### Mobile Transmission Technologies – Smart Grid Although **mobile transmission technologies** can also be installed after the building is completed, from a time and cost-saving perspective, it is advantageous to plan the corresponding **cabling from the start** for new buildings. Through a **central unit**, called "**Smart Grid**", intelligent end devices in the building are networked and interfaces for external users are implemented. This way devices can communicate with each other for the user's benefit, and energy flows can also be optimally controlled in this manner. However, the possibilities offered by remote control, sensor technology and networking have not yet been exhausted. Via smartphone app, blinds can be operated, room temperature regulated, and windows and doors opened and closed. ### New Technologies and Working Methods Are in Demand in the Construction Industry in 2019 Closing the construction industry's digitalization gap as quickly as possible would not only bring cost advantages; it could also **optimize workflows and create synergy effects**. Through existing **Virtual Reality systems**, the need for on-site inspections can largely be avoided, as sizes and details of buildings can be displayed virtually in an authentic manner. This means an increased safety factor for all involved. Furthermore, remotely controlled technical systems are able to **significantly accelerate construction work**. Robots can be used for simple routine tasks, allowing craftsmen and skilled workers to focus on value-creating activities. Using drones equipped with cameras, objects and associated areas can be optically captured in their entirety and construction progress can be documented clearly. Detecting potential construction defects using drone cameras is also possible at inaccessible locations. This reduces the time required for inspections and enables **effective quality management**. ### Sustainability and Energy Efficiency The use of alternative energy forms, commitment to environmental and climate protection, and ongoing **digitalization** are global trends that will revolutionize the construction industry sooner or later. Innovative technologies and modern construction and design methods are about to conquer the market and establish themselves as standards in building construction. "**Green Housing**", that energy-conscious **sustainability** that **ranges from reducing active energy consumption through appropriate insulation and heat-retention measures to resource-conscious material selection**, will become a matter of course in the future. ### Barrier-Free and Needs-Appropriate Construction Demographic change is progressing inexorably; research shows that the average age of the German population is continuously rising. The construction industry thus faces the challenge that **in the future, specially adapted buildings will be increasingly needed** to meet this social influence. Because **barrier-reduced living** (easy-to-use bathrooms, stairlifts & elevators, etc.) is becoming more and more of a trend. While corresponding precautions can be relatively easily taken during the construction of new buildings, existing structures often have high adaptation requirements.