Ready to step foot into 2019, the construction sector has gone through a resurgence owing to technological advancements. Technology plays an integral role, and to a large extent, influences our day-to-day activities. In construction too, it plays an integral role in project delivery. Conversations around construction patterns and technology are gaining significance among prominent global and national real estate players who aim to stay up-to-date with the latest developments and trends. <p></p> <p>The advent of technology in construction has brought a new perspective to the industry. This is further facilitating growth and leading the sector towards a gradual yet significant progress route. With technology influencing this sector, the methods and ways of construction have drastically changed over time. Tasks that once consumed a lot many hours of labour are today accomplished in lesser hours with greater efficiency by equipping latest technologies in order to accelerate the process. The transformation in the sector is allowing an effective and efficient way of working. Techniques such as jumpform are no longer considered as an innovation, it has become part of the day-to-day construction process, thereby reducing time and increasing efficiency. For example, the industry, which three to four years ago was sceptical of speedy construction, is today witnessing a six to seven-day slab cycle comfortably.</p> <p>The new wave of technological solutions has set the ball rolling for the growing demand of world-class developments and innovations that can be leveraged by developers. The adoption of the latest trends and new-age developments will not only provide developers with a competitive edge in construction practices but also equip them with the skills that need to be delivered to the market faster and in a more cost-effective manner. </p> <p>The Indian real estate market and the construction players are adopting these trends and integrating it in their construction patterns. Some popular innovations include:</p> <p> <span style="font-weight: bold;">BIM:</span> In India, 3D BIM has been in use for a few years now. However, the adoption of designing in 3D is not too common. The developers are shifting from the age old technique of 2D to 3D, thereby addressing the need of innovation in the construction space. Developers and construction companies often tend to lose some of the design essence while designing in 2D. There is an increasing need to implement a combination of 3D BIM with application of schedule and cost to create 5D BIM. This option allows one to virtually build the project before starting on site and sorting out clashes, allowing for just-in-time procurement and generally simplifying construction processes, and at the same time, managing cash flow. </p> <p><span style="font-weight: bold;">Drone:</span> The aerial revolution taking place across the globe is significantly viable for the purpose of construction processes and also enables effective monitoring of the processes. </p> <p>Drones and aerial photography aids in gathering of data and mapping information at large, and otherwise, time consuming sites. Other than increasing the pace of work, usage of drone is also helpful in providing greater safety at job sites. </p> <p>Besides, they can also reach high risk areas and narrow spaces which otherwise is out of human reach. Drones also assist in creating more accurate maps and facilitate quick transmission of data as live feed. </p> <p><span style="font-weight: bold;">Virtual and augmented reality use:</span> The use of virtual and augmented reality has seen a growth in recent times. </p> <p>Real estate developers today use virtual and augmented reality to provide an immersive experience by taking potential customers through the project virtually, and giving them a real-time feel of the development. </p> <p> <span style="font-weight: bold;">Green technology: </span>Introduction of green technology has led to a rise in eco-friendly projects made out of non-renewable and recyclable products such as thermally-driven air-conditioners, self-healing asphalt and bricks made out of site waste materials, and even cigarette butts. This trend of sustainable building or green technology will be a major influencer in the real estate sector.</p> <p> <span style="font-weight: bold;">Automation in mobility: </span><br /> Self-driving cars and semi-automated vehicles not only require minimal human input but also need to ensure safety and welfare. Automation in mobility ensures cost-effectiveness with increased efficiency. Self-driven cars are also a good substitute when parking spaces are an issue or seem to be difficult with projects. </p> <p> Safety sensors: IoT has eased the way construction management processes occur. Wearable sensors are readily available and they help in identifying the location of workers at job sites. Moreover, it also activates the sensors if any worker slips or falls, along with remotely monitoring potential maintenance issues like temperature fluctuations, vibrations, etc. </p> <p>The construction industry is on the receiving end of advancement, owing to the Indian Government's policies on urban development and missions like Smart Cities and Housing for All by 2022. The key means in which innovations support the construction sector is by increasing the pace of growth and also helping them deliver quality products at a faster pace. This not only adds to their goodwill but also becomes an important factor that a buyer considers before investing in the real estate sector.</p> <p> <span style="font-weight: bold;">About the author: <br /> John Guest, President, Construction, Piramal Realty, </span>has over 40 years of experience in the construction and property development industries. His experience includes managing and constructing varied projects including super tall towers, residential, commercial, educational, government and hospital facilities. </p> <p> To share your views on this article, write in at feedback@ConstructionWorld.in</p>