The construction industry has long been known for its manual labor-intensive processes, but new technologies are slowly starting to change the game. Despite the potential for significant productivity gains, the industry has been slow to adopt digital innovations compared to other sectors.
One technology that has been touted as a game-changer is 3D printing. The University of Maine has developed the world’s largest 3D printer, capable of creating a 600 sq ft house using sustainable materials. However, 3D printed homes remain more of a demonstration project due to their high cost and construction limitations.
Modular construction is another technique that could revolutionize the industry by manufacturing building components in a factory and assembling them on-site. This method promises higher quality construction and faster build times, but has also faced challenges in implementation due to rigid planning policies.
One company, Automated Architecture (AUAR), is looking to disrupt the industry by licensing micro-factories to build timber houses using robots. This innovative approach aims to reduce labor costs, increase margins for developers, and streamline the construction process.
While the construction industry has been slow to embrace digital transformation, behind-the-scenes improvements such as digitizing paperwork and using AI for predictive analytics are helping to streamline the home-building process. Despite the challenges of fragmentation within the industry, technology has the potential to drive efficiency and collaboration among different teams on construction projects.
