QUESTION 1: Explain construction productivity and highlight its importance.

CONSTRUCTION PRODUCTIVITY
Productivity has been evaluated as the ratio of input versus output i.e. the quantity of the input
delivered by a certain resource against the quantity of the value created by that resource.

Labor efficiency is used in the construction industry to calculate overall output with respect to the
resources spent and the efficiency is the quantity of work completed by a unit of labor in a given
period of time. Productivity is usually taken to mean labor productivity, that is, units of work placed
or produced per man-hour.

IMPORTANCE
Construction productivity is a vital component of any building project, without it projects
become delayed and budgets quickly become overwhelmed. This is why it is vital that you
ensure all of your contract workers are singing from the same hymn sheet in terms of your
project vision and deadline.

QUESTION 2: Explain the process of crane selection for the construction of a

multi storey building. What effect does it have on the overall productivity?

PROCESS OF CRANE SELECTION FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF A

MULTI STOREY BUILDING
Contractors generally aim at both profit and reputation when bidding for a job. To achieve
reasonable profit, contractors try to minimize the cost of using equipment especially cranes on site.
Normally they prefer to use the smallest size crane capable of completing the task. However,
contractors rely on their in-house professional advice concerning the type of the crane to be used.

The process starts with a report prepared by the Crane Manager, regarding a meeting held between
experts in different areas (i.e. design professionals, architects, finance department representative).
The crane manager's report may contain a recommendation for selecting a particular crane together
with the factors considered during the selection process. Based on this report, and additional
information on the construction requirements which include: (shape of the building, type of the
structure, i.e. concrete or steel, construction program, site constraints, and the method of financing),
and alternatives of similar cases from the company's previous work, the experts in their meeting
would select the size and type of a crane (i.e. tower or mobile crane). The decision in most cases, is
made between the crane manager, project manager, site supervisor, and crane operator to
determine the type of a mobile crane, its attachments and locations. The final output consists of the
number, type(s), positions of cranes, and operational costs. This output is further validated by
studying the effect of the contractual and the economical factors such as: the availability of the
selected crane, whether the selected crane can meet the construction program in terms of capacity
and production rates, the effect of the selected crane on the structural and architectural design, and
finally the cost of the selected crane. In the case when changes to the construction requirements due
to the crane selection is needed, the owner and/or his representative is notified, and the process is
repeated for the new design.
Fig. 1 Crane selection process followed by general contractor companies

EFFECT OF CRANE SELECTION PROCESS ON THE OVERALL

PRODUCTIVITY

Material handling is an important part of the delivery process of construction projects, and cranes
are the most important resources used in achieving this, especially on a building construction site.
Selection of type(s), number(s), and location(s) of crane(s) to be used in constructing a high-rise
building is a focal issue in planning the construction operations. Selecting a crane, prediction as to
the consequences of the choice that is to be made. A wrong decision is likely to have significant
effects in terms of high cost and possible delays while a right decision may Keep Your Operation
Running at Peak Performance and ensures worker’s safety.

Question 3: Explain the term work breakdown. Does it have any effect on the
productivity of a project? Explain in detail.

WORK BREAKDOWN STRUCTURE

The Project Management Institute (PMI) Project Management Book of Knowledge (PMBOK) defines
the Work Breakdown Structure as a “deliverable oriented hierarchical decomposition of the work to
be executed by the project team.”

There are two types of WBS:

1) Deliverable-Based

2) Phase-Based.
Deliverable-Based Work Breakdown Structure

A Deliverable-Based Work Breakdown Structure clearly demonstrates the relationship between the
project deliverables (i.e., products, services or results) and the scope (i.e., work to be executed).

FIGURE 1 – DELIVERABLE BASED WORK BREAKDOWN STRUCTURE

Phase-Based Work Breakdown Structure

the Level 1 entails typical phases of a project. The Level 2 contains deliverables in each phase and the
lower Level includes all the deliverables.

EFFECT OF WBS ON THE PRODUCTIVITY OF A PROJECT

 Breaking work into smaller tasks is a common productivity technique used to make the work
more manageable and approachable.
 WBS defines and organizes the work a project requires. It helps to visually represent all
project components: scope, stages, tasks, and deliverables required. A work breakdown
structure that begins with a clear statement of work helps keep all team members focused
on the end goal.
  WBS helps to allocate tasks. When a project is broken down into manageable tasks or
packages, it becomes a lot easier to assign these to the appropriate individual.
 WBS improves communication by communicating everything from the get-go: vision, details
to the delegation of work. It also maintains communication as the project progresses, which
is essential in keeping everyone in the loop and tasks on track.
 The work breakdown structure is ideal for brainstorming and coming up with ideas of what
to include in the project because it is an engaging planning process,
 WBS improves risk management. It helps the team to think about the areas of potential risk
and account for them in the planning phase.
 WBS keeps the project on schedule and within budget. Each manageable task will ideally
have an associated cost, whether it’s in money or time.

Question 4: Explain the process of planning, controlling and managing skilled and
unskilled labor for a construction site.

PROCESS OF PLANNING, CONTROLLING AND MANAGING

SKILLED AND UNSKILLED LABOR FOR A CONSTRUCTION SITE.

Labour management in building construction means controlling the manpower problems, improving
labour productivity and reducing time and cost overrun of projects. To improve the labour
performance, there will be needed a good labour management practice.

The process consists of following activities:

1. Manpower planning
Manpower planning has become an important management tool for balancing and structuring the
skills of the workforce Which is also called as Human Resource Planning consists of putting right
number of people, right kind of people at the right place, right time, doing the right things for which
they are suited for the achievement of goals of the organization.

2. Recruitment
Recruitment, as a human resource management function, is one of the activities that impact most
critically on the performance of an organization. Recruitment is described as “the set of activities and
processes used to legally obtain a sufficient number of qualified people at the right place and time so
that the people and the organization can select each other in their own best short and long term
interests”.

3. Selection
Selection is defined as the process of choosing the best labour from all construction labour and
process of putting right men on right job. In other word, selection is the procedure of matching
organizational requirements with the skills and qualifications of to be employees. Selection can be
used to attract and hire new employees who have abilities, skills, and experience that will help an
organization achieve its goals.

4. Training and development

Training and development is defined as a process of developing work-related knowledge and skills in
employees for the purpose of improving performance systematically. Training can be used effectively
for developing technical and problem-solving skills.
 5. Motivation
Motivation may be defined as the characteristic of an individual willing to expend effort towards a
particular set of behaviours. Lack of motivation in return affects productivity and a number of
symptoms resulting in low morale, low or declining productivity, poor workplace atmosphere, high
employees’ turnover, increasing number of grievances, conflicts, higher incidence of absenteeism
and tardiness, increasing number of defective products, rework, higher number of accidents or a
higher level of waste materials and scrap.

6. Safety and health at work

Safety behaviour is reflected by good attitude. Many accidents that occurred in the workplace
especially in the building construction sites were due to inadequate adherence of workers to work
procedures. The workers must realize that they play an important role contributing in the
accomplishment of the building construction. The awareness and perception of the workers toward
safety, health and their working environment are important aspects to enhance the building
construction to the better condition to the workers themselves.

Q5 Write short notes on the following:

1. PRODUCTIVITY CYCLE

The productivity cycle consists of following phases:

Measurement phase

The construction manager must measure productivity at some point as without it would not be
possible to make improvement.

Evaluation phase
It is the second phase in which productivity in general is compared with productivity in particular.

Planning phase
The third phase of the productivity cycle is concerned with the establishment of targets for
productivity. It helps to gather information regarding the current market and help to set targets to be
a market leader and sustain that position.
Improvement phase
Different technologies to save time can be adopted. Also work processes can be analysed to bring
about a change.

2. MANAGEMENT OF SUBCONTRACTORS

Subcontractor management is the process of procuring subcontractors and overseeing their work on
behalf of a client. In construction, general contractors are responsible for this.

The subcontractor management process takes place in four phases:

1. Pre-award
2. Award
3. Post-award
4. Close-out

Pre-award
During this stage, general contractors assess the project’s needs. They subsequently send
out requests for quotations (RFQs) and requests for proposals (RFPs) to subcontractors.

Award
In this stage, general contractors review bids and proposals from subcontractors in search of the best
candidates. Once suitable subcontractors have been selected, general contractors will work with
them to hammer out specific contract details.

Post-award
At this point, the project is in full swing. General contractors monitor subcontractors to ensure
they’re operating on schedule and in accordance with quality and safety standards. Subcontractor
management in this phase may also involve addressing requests for information (RFIs) and keeping
subcontractors informed of client requests.

Close-out
During this final phase, general contractors thoroughly inspect each subcontractor’s work. They may
request – and follow up on – change orders if the work isn’t sufficient.

SUBCONTRACTOR MANAGEMENT BEST PRACTICES AND TIPS

1. Use purpose-build resource management software

The era of tracking subcontractors and other resources in spreadsheets is behind us. Today, savvy
general contractors use dedicated programs like Bridgit Bench to manage subcontractor schedules,
assignments, labor requests, and data.

With Bridgit Bench, you can very clearly visualize allocations in an industry-standard Gantt
chart format and properly plan your labor strategy. As your project progresses, effortlessly see how
changes are affecting existing allocations and create forecasts that keep everything on track.

Read this article for some more tips on assembling a solid general contractor software suite.

2. SET UP RELIABLE COMMUNICATION CHANNELS

No construction project can succeed without proper communication between general contractors
and subcontractors. Communication keeps everyone informed and working together to achieve
success.

Subcontractor management programs like Bridgit Bench can facilitate communication by making it
easier to generate reports and keep data in a centralized location. Check out this article for a list of
other tools general contractors use to ensure effective communication among laborers.

Subcontractors should know their point of contact for various types of requests, whether they relate
to safety, quality, the project’s schedule, or anything else.

3. PUT CONTRACT DETAILS IN WRITING

Professionals who know how to manage subcontractors effectively recognize the importance of
getting important commitments in writing. Verbal agreements can be easily forgotten and may not
hold up in court quite like commitments made in your subcontractor agreement would.

Consequently, if a particular deliverable is important to you or the client, get it in writing to avoid
potential conflicts.

4. PAY SPECIAL ATTENTION TO PAYMENT TERMS

The subcontractor payment terms you agree to will have a massive impact on project financials.
There are a few common options, including:

pay-when-paid, which stipulates subcontractors won’t be paid until you receive payment from the
client

net 30, which means you’ll owe the subcontractor payment within 30 days of a defined action (i.e.
receipt of the invoice, approval of the work, etc)

General contractors are increasingly using the first payment option, which protects them in the event
that the client takes a long time to pay. However, when it comes to managing subcontractor
performance and motivation, this strategy can cause issues.

As with most subcontractor management best practices, the correct approach is situational.

5. UPHOLD YOUR END OF THE BARGAIN

General contractors hold much of the leverage in relationships with subcontractors. If the latter
wants more work in the future, they’ll often bend over backward to meet even the most
unreasonable demands and ensure the general contractor is happy.

As a general contractor, however, you don’t want to abuse this dynamic. While subcontractors may
continue working with you, they might not be motivated to deliver the best results. In extreme cases,
some subcontractors may decide to decline future work.

Abusing subcontractors can also backfire at your own company. Research shows that when
companies promote unethical behavior, their own employees often turn around and behave
unethically toward them as well. You might see spikes in time theft, cheating, and other dishonest
behavior.
The bottom line? Treat subcontractors fairly. Pay them on time and be reasonable in your
expectations. Beyond being a sign of decency, it will ensure better project outcomes and a happier
work environment.

3. SITE ASSEMBLY

During the On-Site Assembly phase of the FIOSS process, the structural elements are sequentially off-
loaded and assembled by framers with crane assistance, guaranteeing efficiency and safety. For each
story of a house, the exterior walls are assembled before the interior walls, and then the next story’s
floor cassettes are put into place.
This process is functionally the same for any project –  single-family residences, multi-family housing
or a commercial building. In general, a 2,500-square-foot, two-story house can be assembled to plate
level on the first day and the structural shell is made weather-tight in an average of four days. For a
recent multi-family project of 14,000 square feet, the structure was assembled to plate level in five
days and its roof trusses were rolled and sheeted seven days later.
https://www.entekra.com/onsite-assembly

4. CLADDING

The term 'cladding' refers to components that are attached to the primary structure of

a building to form non-structural, external surfaces.
Cladding is generally attached to the structure of the building, it typically does not contribute to its
stability. However, cladding does play a structural role, transferring wind loads, impact loads,
snow loads and its own self-weight back to the structural framework. In particular, wind causes
positive and negative pressure on the surface of buildings and cladding must have
sufficient strength and stiffness to resist this load, both in terms of the type of cladding selected and
its connections back to the structure.

ADVANTAGES OF CLADDING
Cladding is needed to:

 Create a controlled internal environment.

 Protect the building from external conditions.
 Provide privacy and security.
 Prevent the transmission of sound.
 Provide thermal insulation.
 Create an external facade.
 Prevent the spread of fire.
 Generate an 'airtight' building envelope.
 Providing openings for access, daylight and ventilation.

5. PRECAST CONSTRUCTION TECHNOLOGY

Precast concrete is a type of structure wherein concrete is set in a reusable mould and then handled
in a controlled setting (recasting plant). After that, the cast concrete structure is transported to the
construction site and installed. Precast concrete can be used to construct structural elements such as
concrete frames, concrete blocks, and concrete floors, among other things.

BENEFITS OF PRECAST TECHNOLOGY

 
Traditional concrete development cannot compete with the advantages and strengths of precast
concrete, especially when working on large projects.

Cost control

Precast technology improves a building's overall stability while also lowering construction costs by 10
to 15%.

Environment resistant

Fire, natural catastrophes, insects, and mould are all resistant to precast concrete structures. Its
resistance to rain, wind, earthquakes, termites, and decay is unparalleled, resulting in lower
maintenance and insurance costs. It can also withstand many freeze-thaw cycles in the cold season
better than other building materials. 

Thermal performance

The thermal mass benefits of concrete can significantly reduce heating and cooling costs. Because
concrete reacts slowly to temperature changes outside, reduced peak excess heat & cooling loads
can be achieved.

Low maintenance service

The elements of the precast concrete building can be left unfinished on the outside. If desired,
painting is only needed every five to ten years. Interiors made of precast concrete are less affected as
well as easier to clean.

Audio Controls

Precast structures absorb energy due to their density, making them an excellent choice for both
residential as well as commercial constructions. 

Compatible Wi-Fi

With the rise of information technologies in the workplace, it's a welcome relief that precast
buildings don't interfere with radio signals, local Wi-Fi, or internet networks.

Adding strength

Because of its lighter weight, it can decrease the amount of structural material required and the
overall depth of the foundation. Because of the weight savings and solid power of precast concrete
structures, buildings can reach heights of up to 80 stories. The consistency of precast technology
concrete also dampens vibrations that travel throughout the structure.

6. ROLE OF CONSTRUCTION MANAGER IN PRODUCTIVITY

IMPROVEMENT AND MANAGEMENT
Construction manager plays a vital role in the productivity improvement and management during
manifold phases of the project.
Planning
In the planning phase, the CM develops a construction management plan comprising all relevant
information about the construction project. He effectively communicates owner’s vision and goals to
project teams and stakeholders and guides them throughout the construction process. Collaborates
with the designers of the project to evaluate and agree upon the feasibility of the owner’s objectives,
targets, and specifications. Determines the delivery method suitable for the project. Assess potential
risks and setbacks during construction and devising strategies to avoid or mitigate them. Devise
strategies for managing waste from the construction site

Pre-contruction
In this phase CM works hand in hand with the PM to choose the members of the construction teams.
Moreover, the CM also compiles the required documents for building permits and contractor bids,
such as technical specifications, design drawings, and contracts for construction management.

Procurement
In this phase, the CM plans the procurement procedure for the construction equipment and
materials in line with the project’s budget and schedule. During bidding, the CM will review all
submitted proposals and negotiate the best terms for the construction’s goals and targets.

Construction
The CM pays close attention to the following construction activities to make sure the project runs
smoothly and gets delivered as planned:
Conducting regular quality control and site inspections
 Running safety program audits on the work premises
 Processing and approving change orders
 Managing costs and work payment schedules
 Arranging necessary permits and insurance
 Responding to Requests for Information (RFIs)
 Coordinating construction teams for on-time completion
 Documenting change orders, inspections, corrective actions, communication, and other
processes

Close-Out
This phase marks the completion of the construction project, but the CM’s responsibilities are far
from over. In the close-out phase, the CM accomplishes all items in the construction punch lists. They
must also observe a smooth turnover to the project owner by submit\ting project documents,
manuals, ledgers, and reports for the owner’s reference.

https://safetyculture.com/topics/construction-management/

STEEL CONSTRUCTION
Steel constructions have been built in every country around the world, in the last 100 years. As the
world's population increase, rapid urbanization is also accompanied and need for buildings and
infrastructure continue to grow worldwide. Steel is a good construction material in following ways:
Flexibility and Adaptability
Long-span steel sections can be used to create large, open spaces which can be easily adapted,
making them extremely flexible in terms of use. These spaces can be divided easily using temporary
or flexible partition solutions and changed later with minimal cost, demolition, and disruption as the
requirements of the building change. Steel also comes in varying sizes and weights that make it
suitable for a wide range of uses in construction, depending on the loads involved and the desired
result.

Sustainability
Steel has several environmental benefits, such as being 100% recyclable. In the UK, the estimated
recovery rate of recycled steel from steel structures is 96%, and globally recycled steel accounts for
50% of new steel production. Prefabricated and highly accurate steel structures also allow for easy
and waste-free assembly on site, reducing construction duration as well as the number of materials
sent to landfill.

Speed of Construction
One of the main reasons for choosing structural steel is the speed of construction, especially where
disruption to nearby roads and buildings can be an issue. As steel is fabricated to exact
measurements, erection is a reasonably straightforward process of joining the structural elements
together on site. By minimizing the impact on the local area and speeding up the construction
process, many cost savings can be realized.

Reaping the Benefits of Steel

This does not mean that structural steel is always the best material for every situation, but by
understanding the benefits of steel we can make best use of it, where appropriate. All buildings are a
combination of many different materials and choosing the best material for the job can make the
difference in winning the contract on cost, finishing the construction on time, providing a fit for
purpose building, and reducing the environmental impact.

Question 6: Explain the role of “Computer Applications” in improving

productivity of construction projects in terms of:

1. ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN
While there may be some debate as to whether design software has made architects more
productive, increasing productivity in service industries like architecture is a challenging task.
Technology may improve the quality of the service provided (better building designs) but not the
quantity provided (more building designs). For architecture, like many service industries, quality is
often difficult to measure.

Still, several new technologies currently being developed and applied could dramatically affect the
productivity of architects, including:

 Virtual reality, augmented reality, and real-time rendering: to visualize, test, and validate
designs;
 3D printing: for design models and, potentially, on-site production of construction products;
 Big data and predictive modeling: to monitor consumer behavior, construction processes,
and project history;
  The internet of things, including sensors that generate data: to control systems and monitor
behavior; and
 Artificial intelligence and machine learning: to generate best practices and prototypes.

Architecture is not the only field that is witnessing a revolution of new technologies. Others could
dramatically change the construction process or the environment in which design and construction
occur. These emerging technologies include:

Enhanced construction materials: such as specially cured concrete, smart fenestration, microbiology,
nanotechnology;

Robotics, automation, drones, and industrialized design: to improve productivity in construction;

Off-site construction processes: such as prefabrication, modularization, and preassembly; and

Autonomous vehicles: that will influence building designs, use of space, and locational choices.

However, most of these emerging technologies are largely unproven in terms of how they could
influence the AEC industry. And even if there were a consensus that a technology could potentially
reshape the profession, the timing of that change is unknown. The time frame for the adoption of
generally accepted technologies is surprisingly long and unpredictable.

2. STRUCTURAL DESIGN
Structural analysis software has become indispensable for engineers across industries. What was
once considered a luxury tool is now being adopted by every major construction company,
engineering firm, and building department.

Structural analysis software is a computer program that engineers use to design structures such as
buildings and other large- and small-scale projects more efficiently. Structural design software aims
to decrease the time that it takes a structural engineer to create safe, robust, and economical
designs––especially when dealing with complicated building structures and materials. Simply put,
FEM software allows users to quickly automate the laborious engineering tasks and ultimately allows
them more time to design and analyze a superior model. The result is, oftentimes, the modeling of a
better final product.It is also possible to simulate the movement of people inside a building in a user-
friendly interface, which makes it easier to predict potential hazards.

The software reduces the human error involved in calculations and, therefore, increases the accuracy
of the final result. Using software, engineers can comply with the building code regulations without
redesigning their building. This means that they can save money while still complying with the rules.
Using the software, they can provide recommendations to the overall design team and owner based
on carbon impact and other important design parameters.

One of the essential benefits of structural analysis software is reducing construction time. Engineers
can use the software to test different designs before going ahead with construction. They can then
choose the best design from among the options available and use it to build the rest of the structure.
This saves them time and money.

Moreover, since the software allows them to make changes to their design at any stage, they can
keep improving the design as more data becomes available. It also makes the whole process faster
and easier than traditional methods. Furthermore, structural analysis software allows engineers to
quickly build project models. They can then use those models to help plan construction schedules
and determine which parts of the project require more attention than others. This means that they
can test different configurations before actually starting construction. The best structural design
software can also help structural designers predict how long each project will take. This allows them
to schedule tasks efficiently and avoid delays.

3. PROJECT PLANNING AND SCHEDULING

Effortless project planning

If enterprises have learned anything from years of managing projects, it’s that most of the time spent
project planning goes to waste. But it doesn’t have to be this way. Project management software has
moved forward to get you accurate AI predictions of when projects can be completed, capturing
constraints like cost, scope, and schedule.

The key benefit of advanced project management solutions is automation when it comes to project
planning and scheduling. Such platforms not only help project experts establish a solid foundation for
their projects, providing tools to scope out the milestones, key deliverables, and roles before
executing. They’ll keep plans up to date and help to track progress against your baseline.

Ten years ago, we could only dream about cutting down on planning overhead. Now, project
management software can take the guesswork out of estimations and automatically allocate the best
resources available. Learn about what intelligent work automation can do for your projects.

Project management scheduling software can help you and your team efficiently tackle all your
projects by providing five essential functions:

User-friendly format
Good project management and scheduling software need to help teams complete projects better
and more efficiently. That’s why it is designed to be as user-friendly as possible, meaning you should
be able to understand, navigate, and use it with minimal training needed.

Collaboration and communication

Teams need to be able to easily communicate with each other as well as external stakeholders.
Scheduling software makes it easy to comment and chat within the platform without needing to rely
on external software (though many do integrate with other platforms to make this possible need be).
It should also keep a full historic record of all actions, making it easy to audit processes and maintain
a level of accountability. 

Documentation and files

The best project scheduling software will keep all your important documentation in one organized
place and allow you to easily document requirements and specs throughout the project. Many will
also allow you to customize your views in a way that works best for you while allowing your team
members or colleagues to do the same without overriding your personal preferences.

Resource allocation
The right software for your team will make sure that all your people are working on the right things
at the right time. For example, you can assign specific collaborators to a project or task and even
control individual editing rights so that only members with special permissions can make high-level
changes. This makes it easy to share tasks with external stakeholders, or freelancers, in a view or
comment-only fashion to ensure no unwanted or accidental changes are made. 
Time management and scheduling Details
Of course, project scheduling software needs to be able to easily handle everyone’s work schedules
and register time on work items. You should be able to easily see how many tasks a person is working
on and if they have room to take on more. More advanced software also gives you an overview of
the total hours a person spends on each task or project, giving you valuable data that can help you
better allocate resources, stick to goals or budgets, and optimize workflows.

4. PROGRESS MONITORING AND CONTROL  

Here are some tools for project monitoring.  

1. Project meeting
This means meeting with your team to discuss the status of the tasks. It helps identify the timeline of
a task. You can also add additional tasks or make adjustments. 

2. Project monitoring software

It involves using tools like Gantt charts, timesheets, resource management, or task manager to
record, track and manage the task is done and the workload on each member. This software helps in
simplifying task tracking.   

Tips and Best Practices for Project Monitoring

Some best tips and best practices for project monitoring are mentioned below: 

 Conduct research and meetings to understand the project. 

 Create a brief description of the project. 
 Develop a project plan. 
 Keep clear and constant communication with your team.  
 Ask for their feedback and add them if required. 
 Make a resource plan. 
 Don't create unrealistic expectations for yourself or the team. 
 Make sure everything is documented correctly. 
 Please review the project plan and take key lessons from it after it is completed. 

5. ACCOUNTING

Construction accounting software has revolutionized the construction industry by simplifying

financial management, streamlining workflows, and improving productivity. In recent years there has
been the shift toward cloud-based software, which offers numerous benefits over traditional on-
premise solutions. In this post, we’ll explore the advantages of cloud-based construction accounting
software. And further, how helps your business improve efficiency, reduce costs, and increase
profitability.

Increased Flexibility:
One of the main advantages of cloud-based construction accounting software is the increased
flexibility it offers. Users can access the software from anywhere, at any time, as long as they have an
internet connection. This makes it easy to work remotely or collaborate with team members who are
located in different offices or on different job sites. Additionally, cloud-based software can be easily
scaled up or down based on the needs of the business, allowing companies to adjust their software
usage as they grow or as project needs change.

Reduced IT Costs:
With traditional on-premise software, companies are responsible for maintaining their own IT
infrastructure, including servers, backups, and security measures. This can be costly and time-
consuming, particularly for small businesses with limited resources. Cloud-based construction
accounting software eliminates these expenses, as the third-party provider handles all of the IT
requirements, including security and backups. This means that companies can save money on IT
costs and focus on their core business activities.

Improved Security:
Cloud-based construction accounting software providers invest heavily in security measures to
protect their customers’ data. This includes regular backups, encryption, and multi-factor
authentication. Additionally, cloud-based software is typically housed in secure data centers with
redundant systems, which helps to minimize the risk of data loss or downtime due to hardware
failures or natural disasters.

Enhanced Collaboration:
Cloud-based construction accounting software makes it easy to collaborate with team members,
contractors, and clients. Users can share data and reports in real time, which improves
communication and reduces the risk of errors or miscommunication. Additionally, cloud-based
software can integrate with other tools, such as project management software, to provide a more
comprehensive solution for construction companies.

Increased Efficiency:
Cloud-based construction accounting software can streamline workflows and automate manual
processes, which can save time and reduce the risk of errors. For example, automated invoicing and
payment processing can help to speed up cash flow, while real-time job costing can help to identify
potential cost overruns early on. Additionally, cloud-based software can provide real-time visibility
into project status, allowing managers to make informed decisions based on accurate data.

6. SITE MANAGEMENT

Site Management is defined as the “proper management of construction activities to preserve

living and non-living elements of the ecological, environmental, aesthetic, and social landscape.”

The Contractor is responsible for controlling material pollution and for managing wastes and non-
storm water (water created by contractor activities) during construction by implementing effective
storage, handling, use, and disposal practices. The Contractor is also responsible for training all
employees and subcontractors regarding materials pollution prevention and control, waste
management, non-stormwater management, identifying and handling hazardous substances and
potential dangers to humans and the environment from spills and leaks or exposure to toxic or
hazardous substances.

This technology also keeps construction sites safer, as many teams use tools like smart clothing
and site sensors to remain more aware of their surroundings and to protect their bodies from
unexpected debris or other potential damages. Many of the software and mobile tools also make
it easier to effectively communicate with coworkers which enhances collaboration across the
worksite.
Important construction technologies:

There are a wide variety of construction technologies that companies may use to complete daily
tasks. Common construction technologies to consider adopting include:

1. Machine learning and artificial intelligence

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning tools evaluate several data pieces to build
schedules and construction plans that cut costs and reduce project construction times. They can
also use this data to accurately predict future outcomes on government projects. This data can
help construction companies predict project completion estimates and costs, which can provide a
competitive advantage over other construction companies when placing bids for these projects.

Artificial intelligence can enhance productivity levels by locating and distributing its tools
throughout the workday. This gives employees more time to focus on projects, rather than
searching the site for tools they need. AI systems can monitor progress on the construction site
to locate any areas of improvement and recommend potential solutions. They're also
programmed to find and report any on-site errors in areas like electrical, plumbing or mechanical
systems and report these issues for managers to resolve.

2. Site sensors
Managers may place many sensors around a construction site to monitor various elements like
noise levels, temperatures and dust particles to ensure the safety and comfort of the people
working on the site. If employees are at risk of any dangerous exposures, the sensors provide
alerts immediately. These sensors also collect data for managers to review to ensure
construction zone safety and exposure levels are at appropriate amounts and are compliant with
local, state and federal regulations.

3. Smart clothing and wearables

People working on construction sites may wear personal protective equipment, like gloves, work
boots, safety vests or hard hats with environmental sensors, biometrics, voltage detectors or
location trackers embedded inside. This technology can monitor their movements to ensure
they're safe at all times. If an employee slips and falls or harms themselves while working on-
site, the smart clothing can notify managers or contact emergency help, if needed.

If employees enter hazardous or restricted zones within the construction area, the location
sensors set off alarms to alert them to leave the area. Smart clothing can also monitor vital signs,
like temperature, heart rate or respiration rate. If someone becomes overheated, experiences
trouble breathing or undergoes heart conditions, the suit can detect it and contact managers or
other authorities for help.

4. Drones and robots

Drones can complete many tasks on a construction site. They'll typically hover over projects and
take pictures or videos of their progress to report to managers. Leadership members can also
regularly monitor these drones' recordings of a site to ensure teams follow construction site
guidelines, remain productive and stay safe.

Drones can also handle jobs that could be dangerous, like building or bridge inspections. People
working on construction sites may receive extensive training on how to control and move these
drones around to capture valuable construction site footage.

5. Structural monitoring systems

Some newly-constructed buildings contain structural monitoring systems which use sensors to
pinpoint certain strengths and potential weaknesses in the infrastructure. They can typically
detect problems in a building's infrastructure that the human eye isn't able to locate.
This allows these systems to accurately predict any structural issues before they occur and
notify construction managers accordingly. Construction managers can use this information to
conduct maintenance needed to keep the structure stable.

6. Virtual and augmented reality

People in the construction industry may use virtual reality to safely undergo training. They're able
to review written guidelines and instructions, then physically practice what they learned through
engaging simulations that replicate real-life events that could regularly occur on the site. It's also
a great way to teach these employees what to do during emergencies, like equipment
malfunctions or natural disasters, without physically placing them in the situation.

Project managers can use augmented reality to plan and envision the final outcomes of
construction projects. Some augmented reality technologies allow you to view building plans by
wearing lenses or smart mobile devices. It can detect significant areas within a building plan or
show a layout of the property. You can also use this technology to create 3D models to plan the
architecture or design for certain buildings or properties.

7. Building information modeling software

This is an application within augmented reality software that uses planning tools to generate
effective and productive workflows. Construction managers can use building information
modeling software to craft 3D models of various projects. They can, then, develop workflows
around these models to efficiently build schedules and deliver a quality final product. This allows
construction managers to remain in control of the planning, designing and implementing phases
of construction projects from start to finish.

8. Predictive analytics
Predictive analytics technology uses large data sets to make predictions regarding a construction
company's supplies and other expenses. It can review a company's spending history on certain
supplies and compare it with how often employees used those items and how many they used.
This allows this system to determine the number of supplies to order for future projects to cut
costs and avoid expensive surpluses on certain supplies.

9. Environmentally safe construction technology

As sustainable and green buildings increase in demand, many customers may prefer energy-
efficient projects. Luckily, there are energy monitors and building management systems that can
more accurately measure operational costs to install these eco-friendly capabilities in many
buildings. These systems can also review the build specifications to ensure they're meeting the
energy efficiency levels required by the customer.

There are also water supply techniques that significantly decrease water waste through methods
like greywater reuse, rainwater harvesting or dual plumbing. Construction projects can use this
water filtering and collection technology to conserve important natural resources, like water.

10. Electric vehicles

Another addition to the growth of sustainable technology is the expanding use of electric
vehicles, like trucks and delivery vans. Many of these construction vehicles can travel a
significant number of miles after a single charge. Since construction projects often entail driving
trucks around a site regularly, using electric vehicles can contribute to a safer and cleaner
environment for both construction teams and community members getting around or living near
construction zones.

11. 3D printing
Not only can construction teams use 3D models to show employees and clients their project
plans, but some companies can 3D print entire houses. While still being developed and
perfected, 3D printing homes can save on time and construction costs. It typically uses a robotic
arm to create the house layer by layer using concrete. This technique can also lay concrete when
designing sidewalks, driveways and parking lots.

12. Building material advancements

Many construction companies are using high-tech, quality materials developed by scientists to
ensure building structures remain stable and sustainable. Some materials construction projects
use can also contribute to reducing pollution while cutting costs. New and innovative building
materials becoming more common on construction sites are:

Wood and seaweed bricks: These are significantly stronger than traditional bricks and are made
without emitting carbon through using a kiln, which essentially helps the environment.

Self-healing concrete: This material heals itself by repairing its own cracks and can last for
hundreds of years.

Translucent wood: As an alternative to window glass, this material is biodegradable and stronger
than traditional glass.

Algae-infused building panels: When installed, these can generate cleaner energy to spread
throughout the air.

13. Offsite construction

Crews can build homes and buildings using offsite construction. It allows you to design entire
rooms and install finishes and fixtures from an offsite location using modular units. You'll then
transport these units to the construction area and attach them to the structural frame. It's best to
use this method on projects that contain repetitive layouts and floor plans, usually in apartments,
hotels, dormitories, schools or hospitals.

Construction teams sit in an offsite controlled environment in separate stations using tools and
materials to construct, design or install certain elements within a structure. Another area of offsite
construction allows teams to build components offsite, then assemble or install them at the
construction site. This can be components like window assemblies, door framings and floor
systems.

14. Autonomous heavy equipment

These are larger equipment and machinery items used on construction sites to complete site
work, grading and excavation. Autonomous heavy equipment is self-driving, so it doesn't require
employees to operate it from the front seat. Instead, GPS, drones and sensors then usually
navigate the equipment throughout the construction site. Construction teams design 3D models
for the machine to follow as they grade and excavate the terrain onsite. Employees may also
navigate these machines using a tablet or computer.

15. Mobile technology

Mobile applications have made it easier for employees to effectively communicate and
collaborate on certain projects or meetings. Onsite teams scheduled for meetings can attend
them using video chat from their smartphones, keeping them from traveling back and forth
between the office and the construction site.

Some construction mobile technology applications also make it easy to share building plans and
progress with stakeholders or clients. Using the applications, stakeholders or clients can adjust
specifications or add notes to projects currently in construction. This helps them remain more in
control of and updated on their project's progress.

https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/construction-technology