Recently, research was conducted into digitalization in construction companies. The figures show that the construction sector is one of the least digitalized sectors. In this blog, we will delve deeper into some of the causes of this 'backlog', but also the reasons why digitalization is not such a bad idea.
The parties involved in a construction project
Of course, there are multiple causes underlying this backlog. For example, think about all the parties involved in a construction project – construction managers, project developers, investors, … and depending on the type of construction project sometimes also municipalities or cities – you can probably imagine that it is not always easy to reach a firm decision with all those parties. Because the greater the number of parties involved, the more opinions you have to take into account. And of course, those opinions can sometimes differ considerably.
The construction sector is also known for the many family businesses that continue to exist from generation to generation. Although quite a few things are modernizing, just as many companies are sticking to what they know and what works. As a result, a huge number of opportunities are missed because processes – and systems – do not evolve with the times.
Despite the slow rise of digitalisation in the construction sector, a remarkable 90% of Belgian construction companies are convinced that digitalisation is the future .
Digitizing in construction is a good idea, but why?
Although 90% fully support digitalization, there is still about 10% who ask themselves the question 'Everything is running smoothly, why should we change things?'. Even if something is running well, that does not mean that there is no room for improvement . For example, multiple processes can be integrated into one system, allowing you to work much more efficiently.
Concrete benefits of digitalization:
- Lower operating costs
- Structural competitive advantage
- More chance of winning tenders
- Attracting more talented employees
Take the BIM model (Building Information Modeling) for example, which is increasingly being discussed in the sector. More and more parties are encouraged – or even required in some projects – to get started with it, as BIM can be considered a general 'language' within a construction project. Because everyone communicates in the same way, everything runs much more efficiently and is understandable for every party involved.
Despite the initial doubtfulness of the first steps towards BIM, we are seeing a significant increase in the number of companies and subcontractors switching to BIM . Government agencies are also increasingly adopting a digital mindset. For example, consider the Checkinatwork portal used for attendance registration on construction sites .
What first steps towards digitalization can I take as a company?
Rome wasn’t built in a day, so it’s logical that a company can’t digitize overnight. Taking small but powerful steps is the message!
1. Install a VPN
Everything and everyone is connected via The Cloud these days. For some companies, cloud-based tools are the most efficient to use for example to share things and to log in to certain business applications. The reason why this is often not opted for is because then the public internet has to be used to get access to that cloud.
A solution to this is to use a secure VPN (virtual private network) . A VPN provides a secure connection between you and the internet. Everything you send via this virtual private network is sent through an encrypted virtual tunnel . In concrete terms, your IP address and location are hidden , making you surf more anonymously and safer from hackers and cybercriminals.
2. Provide a WiFi hotspot on your sites
A connection on your site is important. Therefore, provide a wifi hotspot on your site. Employees will have a smooth connection to use the application during the hours, but will undoubtedly also make eager use of it during their lunch break.
A fixed internet connection is of course even better. But that is easier said than done. Installing one is not always easy - or in many cases not even allowed. A router that connects to a 3G, 4G or 4G+ mobile network is a good alternative. Such a router is very quick to install and you can easily limit the costs of this by the fixed monthly cost.
3. 5G network on the way!
You could already read in our blog 'postponement-5g' that a lot was going on around the arrival of the 5G network . But with 2020 in the starting blocks, it looks like we will finally be able to switch to the 5G network. The implementation of this network will make the line between colleagues in the office, on the road and on construction sites even thinner, which ensures more efficient operation.
Connect with us!
Do you have questions about checkin@work, attendance registration or one of our other solutions? Do you want to see together which first steps towards digitalization are the right ones for your company? Then do not hesitate to contact us without obligation via the link below, or by calling us directly: +32 3 289 55 35 to discuss the possibilities.
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This blog and the information it contains is based on the whitepaper
'Towards a digital future for your construction company' by Orange.
