Construction design has seen significant changes in the past and there is a question mark as to what the future holds for construction design. More specifically, the construction sector is going through a process of increased digitization, where users embrace new technologies and software. However one of the biggest products, namely construction design software, is already experiencing significant advancements in terms of AI features and the integration of virtual and augmented reality technologies. As we progress further through this particular piece, we will be taking a look at some of the newest trends that are quite promising when it comes to construction design software, as well as what they could potentially imply moving forward.
Transitioning to 3D Modeling
The current transition for many firms from 2D drafting to 3D building information modeling (BIM) is one of the most significant changes in the industry. BIM 3D for buildings and structures makes it easier for architects, engineers, and Construction Estimator, and contractors to work hand in hand in developing models of the building and structures. This provides the entire construction workflow with a broader and more coordinated view of a project for progress coordination and clash avoidance.
Autodesk Revit, Bentley OpenBuildings Designer, Graphisoft ArchiCAD, etc., are some of the most used software platforms that extend solid capabilities in 3D modeling, quantification, and visualization. The newer versions enable one to virtually ‘walk through’ models of buildings through the incorporation of VR. They also provide intelligent model data and databases that can be used for the automation of various processes. With the increasing use of 3D BIM, large and small construction companies get more options for design at different stages of construction projects and for communicating with other parties involved in the projects.
AI and Generative Design
Among the most forward-thinking technologies incorporated in construction software is Artificial Intelligence or AI. The use of AI is slowly being integrated into programs used for analyzing structural designs and identifying conflicts, estimating costs, among others. The result is that the process of design becomes more technical, although there is still a place for the final touches and the use of Drafting Services with professional discretion.
One such technique is what is known as generative design, and this is now starting to gather pace. It is an application of algorithms to efficiently create and test construction designs under certain constraints such as for site conditions, building materials, cost restraints, regulation standards, and intended uses of the structure. Instead of manually coming up with design options that are as good as the current best-case solution, architects can use the computing power of generative design tools in the cloud to come up with “what-if” designs automatically. This opens up whole new domains of investigation in a very short amount of time.
Software developer Autodesk has its generative design in the cloud platform it provides for construction. Recent AI startups such as keen AI and general.ai also provide generative design applications specifically for AEC industry workers. Thus, as these AI capabilities are enhanced, construction teams are provided with more aid throughout the creative process as well as enhancing factors such as cost, construction effectiveness, sustainability, and operational efficiency.
Digital Collaboration Networks
There are also new social projects implemented in construction to act as one integrated cloud environment where all the data, processes, and team members’ communication are based irrespective of the backend applications and systems that firms may use. It’s more or less a one-stop shop for all things workflow automation, accessing files, issues related to coordination, and even full lifecycle data dealing with projects.
Some of the emerging collaboration solutions are Procore, Fieldwire, Buildertrend, BaseStone, the Stack, Sandvik, and Lockvia. Although each is unique in its features, most of them provide functionality that encompasses task tracking, submittal logs, requests for information (RFI) and punch lists, file sharing options, model viewing options, meeting minutes, and scheduling, among others. These platforms intend to build an integration of GCs, architects, engineers, subcontractors, and owners with a single point of contact and openness.
Some of these also connect with other common programs including ProEst, Sage, Acumatica, Microsoft Project, Bluebeam, PlanGrid, and Assemble Systems, among others through APIs. Some even produce analytics of costs, schedules, quality, safety, and productivity performance due to data that feed real-time in the system. Such integration and automation facilitate effective construction activities and minimize communication issues to make construction teams perform optimally.
Virtual and Augmented Reality: An Emerging Frontier
Other tools virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are also gradually appearing in construction software for design reviews, collaborative work, and support for field teams. Consider getting an immersive tour of a spatial design through a 3D model of the building with the design collaborators based in different time zones. Or in the case of allowing real users such as on-site workers to visualize and query the digital overlays on actual physical scenes.
The use of VR/AR tools for construction has the potential to be used during the planning phase, BIM collaboration, analysis of site conditions, project supervision, guidance on assembly, inspection assistance, and more. There are already some software developers including Mutual Mobile and Multivista that have introduced VR/AR applications in AEC. These technologies are also used in larger platforms such as Autodesk BIM 360 and Unity Reflect to utilize next-gen possibilities.
As VR/AR technology is in its infancy, it could revolutionize communication and decision-making in the construction design, planning, and field implementation with the gradual adoption of the technology. It is likely to witness explosive innovation related to this sector in the future.
What’s Next?
The future of construction software is bright, as from artificial intelligence to improved collaboration and immersive experiences, the industry is already seeing emerging technologies. Seeing that increased utilization of data for improved analysis, enhanced performance, forecasting, and automation is a trend that is widely embraced in the industry, there is every reason to expect that there is more in store in the way of evolution, as opposed to revolutionary change.
Some other technologies that are expected to be developed in the future include enhanced scheduling algorithms, blockchain smart supply chain, improved credentialing for workers, and safe autonomous systems. According to Dodge Data & Analytics, a total of 10% of project values will be delivered through one or more innovations that are brand new to the specific project type by 2026.
As these technologies develop over time, a firm that embraced these technologies early on could stand to gain significantly – not only for general contractors of notable size, but for specialty trades, architects, and engineers as well. The adopters who are receptive to innovation could destabilize their niches within the sector by delivering quicker, more efficiently, and with less risk. The utilization of construction technology can improve quality, reduce wastage, control costs from an owner’s perspective and society, and promote health/productivity among human beings.
Nevertheless, the fast pace of growth implies issues with cultural evolution, skill enhancement, better integration, data consistency, and the assessment of the actual return on investment. However, construction has never been a progressive industry to begin with; it has always incorporated aspects of both, the old and the new. As the following components can be considered as lagging, there is no doubt that outstanding tools, ideas, and leaders will keep on moving the industry to the future step by step.
Conclusion
Major changes in MEP Estimating Services software are in the process of happening due to the availability of cloud platforms, 3D/4D BIM, artificial intelligence, generative designs, Virtual/Augmented reality, and profound collaboration networks acting as a backbone. They hold the potential to dramatically extend design capacities, augment repetitive work, improve plans, detect mistakes in the design phase, monitor data more efficiently, and enhance information sharing between interest groups.
Since various innovations are expected to evolve within a short time within the construction industry, firms that adapt themselves well to change, therefore, have a chance of increasing productivity, quality, and reliability on projects to have an edge over other firms. Of course, implementing change always involves leveraging typical change management challenges. However, for those firms willing to leap to the future, it is nothing short of the promised land of opportunity.
