September 09, 2017
As someone who runs a construction company, it's probably a challenge to keep on top of trends, some of which you've maybe looked over. While it's true trends come and go, it's time to take some recent trends more seriously. It's not always about technology that continually improves the construction industry. Other trends fall in line with labor issues, spending, and hiring.
You'll also want to look at what's ahead in the world of construction sales and profits. All of these are going to have some shift as we get closer to a new decade.
Here's a look at what you can expect in the construction field in 2018, and how you can prepare now before they happen.
1. Improving Technologies
There isn't any doubt that technology advancements have already improved construction tenfold. From mobile technologies to the cloud, the ability to connect with one another and communicate across multiple channels is vastly improved.
Soon, expect more virtual reality and augmented reality use throughout this year and into 2018. You're already seeing how much this changes the way construction companies visualize projects before they're even built.
More so, it's allowing people to tour construction sites without having to do so in person.
Also look out for technologies like 3D printing, more drone use, self-driving vehicles, and more efficient coatingsfor specific surfaces.
2. Increased Spending Growth
If you had some worry over the spending growth dip in construction back in 2016, it's going to pay to stay in the industry. Growth has already exploded through 2017 with a 6.3% increase over last year.
Despite some slight dips expected in 2018, construction demands are still going to go up around the world for both residential and non-residential building. The dip may occur in the commercial sector, though expected to fill in with the institutional sector.
3. Will Modular Construction Still Be Around?
Undoubtedly, you've heard a lot about modular construction trends in the last year. With speed being a major factor in construction nowadays, you're going to see a lot more modular construction projects.
Things like pop-ups and permanent modular buildings for big-name companies will continue to become the hottest construction ideas. These are also becoming a lot more energy-efficient in the process, which is always attractive to home-buyers and commercial businesses.
4. Cost-Saving Measures
Two things plaguing the construction industry lately are price increases for supplies and skilled labor shortages. Both of these are going to mean construction companies like yours possibly having to do more cost-saving measures to stay competitive.
It's not impossible with modular construction above one cheaper alternative. However, other more affordable options like public-private construction helps bring a more cooperative effort to construction. The same goes with turning yourself into a design-build company to reduce middlemen.
To cut down further on expenses, technologies like wearables can better track equipment and how laborers work. More thorough metrics and monitoring are the key to offsetting costs. So is creating internships to train more skilled laborers to avoid heavier workloads on your other builders.
5. Increased Safety Measures
Statistics still show construction as the leader in all industry workplace accidents. This is starting to slowly improve for the coming year with better technologies and procedures.
It's time to take action yourself if you're still experiencing too many on-site injuries lately. Safety mobile apps are a good way to prevent safety issues, especially in better communicating with everyone and providing OSHA compliance.
Safety analytics are the key here to get everyone on the same page about your safety protocols. A safety app helps send this information into the field without having to take time to visit each work site in person.
Keep reading us at Lorman Education Services to learn more about what's on the horizon in construction and other industries.