Over the years, the incorporation of digital technology in the construction sector and modern methods of construction have been considered crucial for closing critical gaps and increasing productivity. In the How We Build Now report done by Procore, 80 per cent of decision-makers stated that due to the volatility of the current industry and the economy, the level of investments in digital transformation has increased in the previous three to six months. 

 

It shows a significant trend toward prioritising technological advancements to drive growth and efficiency within the sector. 

 

This is evident in the UAE, where government entities such as Dubai Municipality and leading construction technology providers, such as Procore, have kept pace with the shifting tides of the sector to address concerns and at the same time support and enhance project efficiency, delivery, collaboration, safety, profitability, and compliance. 

 

In a recent dialogue, Madeleine Skillen, Senior Marketing Manager of Procore, and Basel Tachwali, Construction Technology Specialist at Dubai Municipality, shed light on the future trajectory of construction in the UAE. 

 

The discussion underscored the vital role of digital technology solutions and modular construction in shaping the industry’s future. 

 

Leveraging technology to boost efficiency

 

Technology’s pivotal role in simplifying processes and accelerating work in the construction industry has become increasingly evident. During the talk, Tachwali emphasised Dubai’s openness to adopting technology solutions and modular construction well in advance. 

 

Over the years, the widespread utilisation of 3D printing has increased and has experienced significant growth in terms of adoption and regulation, which reiterates Dubai’s commitment to advancing technological innovations in key sectors.  

 

He mentioned a hospitality project, which utilised modular construction, allowing different components to be built simultaneously in multiple locations. The hotel’s structures were fabricated in a factory in Saudi Arabia, the bathrooms and wet areas were produced in Dubai, and various other parts were sourced globally. 

 

Leveraging this approach, Tachwali pointed out that the project’s ability to complete several tasks at once resulted in a 30% to 40% reduction in project duration – a noteworthy achievement for a hospitality project. 

 

Similarly, in the How We Build Now Report by Procore and Censuswide, business leaders acknowledge the importance of effective data utilisation with 27% of decision-makers believing they could save up to 25% of a project’s time by eliminating rework. 

 

Additionally, 32% estimate that their business could save up to 29% of project costs through more efficient data capture, integration, and standardisation.

 

Global macroeconomic uncertainties have likely driven construction leaders to adopt latest technological innovations to ensure efficiency and agility. The impact of COVID-19 has further accelerated industry investment in digital transformation. 

 

Notably, 26% of construction business leaders report that economic and industry volatility, such as inflation and supply chain challenges, has led them to significantly increase their digital transformation investments. 

 

Furthermore, 43% of decision-makers indicate they are beginning their journey towards digital transformation, while 11 percent now consider themselves a digital-first business.

 

Challenges in adoption of technology

 

When it comes to technological implementation this usually comes with several challenges. 

 

Tachwali shed light on the most common arguments typically centred around price-based fears and ROI. He stated that a key reason for the reluctance to adopt technology is the learning curve associated with development and how this reality must be accepted. 

 

Learning and making mistakes are all part of research and development and a way to move forward. 

 

Adding to it, Skillen stated that giving room for failures is a part of the process because failures drive success in the longer term. 

 

Companies need to manage their expectations and allow people to work their way through the systems as there is greater satisfaction. All this is critical in preparing the workforce for the future and empowering them with the right tools to improve outcomes. 

 

Impact of collaborations

 

While there might be challenges in the adoption of technologies, there are also some factors that are advocating it, such as collaborations between early adopters, the government, and academic institutions. 

 

Tachwali discussed his journey from construction to government, during which he observed that technology was adopted to solve construction challenges and improve governance. 

 

This proactive approach helps address issues optimistically, while governance ensures rights are maintained and stakeholders are protected. 

 

Pioneers and early adopters of technology play a crucial role in communicating and collaborating with government bodies. This partnership is essential for promoting and developing these technologies. Governments worldwide need to understand and support these initiatives. 

 

The conversation proved that addressing issues, connecting with stakeholders, and working together are essential to developing an effective technological ecosystem.

 

The collaboration between the government and academic institutions has proven vital in developing facilities that effectively support both people and technologies, ensuring the best outcomes. This was deemed critical as working with academia set the stage for empowering future engineers. 

 

Tachwali noted that when guided correctly, aspiring engineers and interns will be better able to design disruptive solutions that will contribute greatly to the evolution of construction. 

 

Looking ahead, the greatest potential for advancement keeps evolving. Currently, AI is revolutionising digital delivery, especially through improved database management, which is becoming a standard practice in construction. This is not new to other industries, but it is a significant development for construction, reducing project times significantly.

 

3D printing a game-changer

 

Tachwali pointed out that 3D printing is emerging as a game-changer, with around 15 projects in Dubai already utilising this technology. 

 

While 3D printing is still in its early stages, it holds great promise for the construction industry. However, widespread adoption requires a mindset shift. People are slowly realising that traditional methods may no longer be the most effective.

 

Additionally, he highlighted Dubai Municipality’s increasing focus on digital technologies, especially - in GIS development, digital delivery, data development and AI integration. 

 

"Dubai Municipality has successfully completed the regulations governing the use of 3D printing technology and is issuing a license for the use of 3D in construction, in addition to turning building code requirements into operational requirements. Dubai Municipality has undertaken a number of Building Information Modelling (BIM) initiatives, which include mandates, online e-checkers and e-standards," he noted. 

 

Integrating technologies and modern techniques has yielded significant outcomes. As technological advancements continue to flourish and shape the construction industry, Procore and Dubai Municipality stand committed to supporting these developments. 

 

By bridging gaps and enhancing construction outputs through innovation, they aim to connect communities and construction professionals, improve productivity, and foster sustainable growth in the built environment moving forward.-TradeArabia News Service