Despite gratifying growth rates, the construction industry currently faces enormous challenges, as there is considerable catching up to do in terms of digitalization, efficiency, BIM and ecological awareness. Adding to this is the fact that due to increasing urbanization trends, more and more construction projects need to be completed in shorter timeframes, while neighbors and the environment should not be burdened by construction activities. This is a situation that can only be addressed through innovative technology and a fundamental willingness to change.

Building Information Modeling (BIM)

Although the industry is traditionally anything but innovation-friendly, the general progress of digitalization will not stop at the construction sector either, 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 kind and complexity, the capture and management of all building data, as well as the representation of construction projects as 3D models. The use of BIM will continue to increase in 2019.

Interdisciplinary Collaboration

When constructing a building, multiple components must always work seamlessly together. The technical expertise of the architect, the craftsmanship and design skills of construction workers, the quality of building materials, the professional execution of various construction methods by engineers, and the timely and needs-based availability of suitable working equipment and machinery on site all play an important role. Especially in the early phase of a construction project, when the aim is to maximize the technological potential of building elements and to advance 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 machinery rental providers, such as the Munich-based company klarx. When architects, engineers, and supervisors work more closely together than before, extensive construction projects can be reliably implemented within time and cost parameters.

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Mobile Transmission Technologies – Smart Grid

Although mobile transmission technologies can also be installed after the building is completed, it is advantageous from a time and cost savings perspective to plan the appropriate cabling from the outset for new construction. Via a central unit, called a "Smart Grid", intelligent end devices in the building are networked and interfaces for external users are implemented. This allows devices to communicate with each other for the benefit of the user, and energy flows can also be optimally controlled in this way.

However, the possibilities offered by remote control, sensor technology, and networking are far from 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

Making up for the undeniable digitalization deficit in the construction industry as soon 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 physical site inspections can be largely eliminated, as building dimensions and details can be represented virtually in an authentic manner. This means an increased safety factor for all parties involved. Furthermore, remotely controlled technical systems are capable of significantly accelerating construction work. Robots can be used for simple routine tasks, allowing craftsmen and skilled workers to focus on value-adding activities.

Using drones equipped with cameras, objects and their associated areas can be optically captured in their entirety and construction progress can be documented clearly. Identifying any construction defects using drone cameras is also easily possible at inaccessible locations. This reduces inspection time and enables effective quality management.

Sustainability and Energy Efficiency

The use of alternative energy forms, a commitment to environmental and climate protection, and progressive digitalization are developments that can be felt worldwide and will revolutionize the construction industry sooner or later. Innovative technologies and modern construction and building methods are about to conquer the market and establish themselves as the standard in building construction.

Thus, "Green Housing", that energetic sustainability that ranges from reducing active energy consumption through appropriate insulation and thermal protection measures to resource-conscious material selection, will become a matter of course in the future.

Barrier-Free and Needs-Based Construction

Demographic change is progressing unstoppably, and studies show that the average age of the German population is continuously rising. The construction industry thus faces the challenge that increasingly specialized adapted buildings will be needed in the future to meet this social demand. After all, barrier-reduced living (easily usable bathrooms, stairlifts & elevators, etc.) is becoming more and more of a trend. While it is still relatively easy to make appropriate provisions in this regard when constructing buildings, the need for adaptation in existing structures is usually high.