The Future of Construction Estimation: Emerging Technologies and Trends
Like thousands of other sectors, the construction industry is also becoming the part of current digital transformation. Technological advancements have altered the performance method to a great extent. We can observe multiple examples of daily happenings concerning such a revolution. This change has affected the whole construction section and the estimation process in particular. The innovative emerging tech-savvy trends are acting a supportive role in shaping the future of construction estimation.
Traditionally, the construction industry highly relied on manual procedures for the cost estimation of construction building projects. However, technological advancements have paved new roads for estimating techniques that offer unprecedented accuracy, exactness, and efficiency. Fortunately, the current automated mechanisms are transforming the industry, offering new tools and approaches for more precise estimating processes. In this article, we will explore the up-and-coming technological trends that are outlining the base of construction estimation in a different manner.
Building Information Modeling (BIM)
The most transformative technology in construction estimation is named Building Information Modeling (BIM). It is a digital illustration of a building’s physical and functional characteristics, that allows designers, contractors, architects, and engineers, for teaming up to communicate well throughout the project lifecycle. BIM software generates 3-dimensional models that support virtual walkthroughs, clash detection, and other simulations for the identification of potential issues before construction work begins. Additionally, its integration with the estimation software provides accurate figures for material quantity takeoffs based on the schematic representation.
The incorporation of BIM into the estimation process has helped in the reduction of errors and misinterpretations that are the major cause of change orders and delays. Through this model, estimators can measure and quantify the exact materials needed for a project. Takeoffs are considered a tedious and time-consuming task, but BIM’s automated structure has freed much of the work of the estimators rendering them to focus on more critical tasks.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Artificial intelligence (AI) is another technology transforming the future of construction estimation. AI algorithms perform historical data analysis of similar projects to identify recurrent patterns. Based on identified data, predictions are made regarding the needed costs and resources to complete a new project. For instance, AI is of great support in commercial construction estimating by capturing complex-natured previous data. Therefore, AI examines the most common cost drivers, risk factors, and opportunities in previous projects to determine the possible cost-saving arenas in the current project.
Another use of AI in the construction sector is the automation of some of the more repetitive and time-consuming aspects of the whole process. By using machine learning algorithms, AI can learn from past projects to positively progress over time. This makes it a precious tool for contractors who are looking for ways to streamline their estimation workflows.
Drones and Lidar
Drones and Lidar technology are, undoubtedly, playing an important role in construction estimation. Drones equipped with high-tech cameras can capture high-resolution images of building sites. Based on these images, estimators can create 3D models of the prospective construction conditions. On the other hand, Lidar uses laser technology to create exact 3D models of construction buildings and their near-about areas, providing accurate measurements of distances and volumes. These futuristic evolutions are proved helpful in the creation of detailed site surveys. This allows a construction estimator to identify potential challenges and opportunities before construction begins.
Mobile Technology
Mobile technology, no doubt, has inclined the remote setup for many fields, it has also transformed the work structure of the construction industry. Estimators, with the help of smartphones and tablets, can access project information and involve in timely communication with team members to develop collaborative cost estimates. Advanced mobile applications support instant data input, thus reducing the manual data entry procedure and improving perfection in work. Mobile technology also enables estimators to work remotely which favored flexibility and reduced delays occurred due to communication barriers.
Cloud Computing
Cloud computing is another name among those that have driven the world toward the world of transformations. Construction estimation via this technique has now become a piece of the cake. Cloud-based estimation software witnesses ultimate connectivity that enables multiple staff members to access and update estimates simultaneously. It reduces the risk of version control issues and improves group coordination. This software offers maximum flexibility and scalability. Hence, allowing contractors to adjust their estimating capabilities as required without having to invest in additional hardware.
Augmentation of Integrated Platforms
In short, the prevailing trend of automated mechanics has changed much of the working abilities of the construction industry and estimators particularly. Consequently, the future of construction estimation will seem to be an imaginary tale about which we used to listen in the past. Contractors are now shifting away from siloed software solutions towards integrated platforms. They combine estimation, project management, and accounting capabilities into a single system. Such platforms allow for greater visibility into all phases of a construction project. This aids in the improvement of communication channels and relationships between teams.