Efficiency in Construction
The construction industry is known for facing challenges affecting efficiency and productivity. Budgets and time deadlines are rarely met accordingly due to problems such as weather, equipment needs, miscommunications and more. With that being said, there is plenty of room for efficiency to improve in the construction industry with new tools and methods coming out every year.
What is Efficiency in Construction?
Efficiency is oftentimes confused with the ability to get a project done as fast as possible. This is not what efficiency refers to. Efficiency in construction is measured by being as cost-effective as possible while maintaining the appropriate productivity and quality of work. Several factors come into play here, but if each one can be accounted for it can be easier to achieve maximum efficiency on the job site.
Tips to Improve Efficiency in Construction
Organization and Communication
Construction companies that stress organization and communication will successfully achieve efficient projects. A crew must be organized and know their roles on-site. Misunderstandings and errors lead to more time and money spent on the job. This is also where communication is tied in. All levels of the company must communicate constantly so any roadblocks can be resolved when they arise. When the crew knows what needs to be done and what their role is, it is just a matter of execution.
Data and Information Management
The biggest opportunity to improve efficiency that is not being taken advantage of in construction is using data to optimize processes. It has been estimated that as much as 95% of data collected is thrown away and never used. There are countless ways to use data to improve efficiency and some of these strategies include:
- Project planning and modelling
- Scheduling analysis and role management
- Better understanding of industry trends and consumer behaviour
- Sourcing equipment on an online marketplace
Adapt to Technology and Cloud Based Management Systems
The world is changing and those who adapt will come out on top. As other industries go from pen and paper to computers and tablets, we see them boost efficiency and as a result grow as a company. A good example of an industry that made this switch is the healthcare industry. It has paid off and made operations more efficient than they have ever been. Cloud computing is the answer to the data dilemma as all of the solutions for data management are accessible by modern cloud technology.
Off-site Construction
Off-site construction is the process of building structures in a factory-like environment to then ship it to its designated location for installation. The process is known to be more efficient than traditional construction due to less waste and heavy machinery. Less labor is also required in a factory setting which means less wages and more profits while maintaining quality of work. Safety is another factor that makes off-site construction standout since many of the hazards of a physical site are eliminated in the factory setting that off-site construction provides.
Adapt and Overcome
Efficiency is something that must come from strong leadership and calculated decision-making. Construction is behind the curve when it comes to efficiency, so those that overcome this have a massive opportunity to control their sector. When planning for your next project, keep these tips to improve efficiency in mind.
