Welcome to the new year in construction! While we embark on fresh projects, it’s crucial to stay aware of the common hurdles that might come our way. In this article, we’ll delve into the top three problems in construction for 2024 and explore how modern digital tools can help us overcome them with ease.

Issue #1:

Unwanted Delays Picture a smooth construction process without annoying delays. Sounds like a dream, right? Unfortunately, real-life scenarios often involve setbacks due to various reasons like weather or material shortages. However, one major culprit behind unnecessary delays is something we can control: data silos. These silos prevent smooth collaboration among teams, making it harder to pass on essential information. This problem only snowballs as the project progresses, leading to frustrating hold-ups.

Solution:

Luckily, technology comes to the rescue! Construction-specific software now integrates seamlessly with other tools, breaking down those data silos. With a simple click, teams can share accurate information in real-time, keeping the project on track without the need for constant double-checking.

Issue #2:

On-Site Rework Imagine completing a task, only to find out it needs to be redone because of a miscommunication. This situation, known as on-site rework, not only wastes time but also costs money—billions each year in the US alone! Often, the root cause is a lack of communication among stakeholders, leading to conflicting instructions in project documents.

Solution:

By adopting open web-based platforms early in the project, stakeholders can access and update information in real-time. This creates a single source of truth, minimizing the chances of miscommunication and reducing the need for costly rework. Additionally, tools like Conceptual Estimating help predict outcomes before work begins, saving both time and resources.

Issue #3:

Cost Overruns Cost overruns are every contractor’s nightmare. They often stem from factors like rework and scheduling delays, but outdated tools also play a role. Generic spreadsheets, while familiar, are prone to errors and are difficult to update and share among teams.

Solution:

Moving away from spreadsheets to cloud-based automation platforms is the way forward. These platforms offer increased efficiency, connectivity, and collaboration, ultimately reducing costs. Furthermore, integrated databases within construction-specific estimating platforms ensure accurate cost calculations and help manage change orders effectively.

Summary:

In summary, By embracing modern technology and fostering better communication and collaboration among stakeholders, we can navigate through the challenges of construction in 2024 with confidence. Here’s to a year of smoother projects and fewer headaches.