The Construction Technology ConFex 2024, held in the UAE, brought together industry leaders for an engaging panel discussion on the lessons learned from the past seven years of technological advancements in construction. Titled “The 30000 ft View – ConTech Lessons Learned”, the session was moderated by Rob Jones, Partner at b2b Connect. He was joined by an impressive lineup of experts: Damir Jaksic, Chief Information Officer at KEO International Consultants; Imad Itani, Head of Innovation at ALEC Engineering & Contracting; Mohamed Ragheb, Chief Development Officer at Azizi Developments; Reda Bin Abdoun, Chief Technology Officer at Ajdan Real Estate Development ; and Tony Harbour, Head of Technology Partnerships EMEA at Procore.
This session provides an honest reflection from the CTF community on what has worked, what hasn’t worked, what are the barriers still and with the benefit of hindsight, what is needed to move forward.
The panel discussed the transformative power of cloud-based construction management software, the accelerated adoption of technology during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the persistent challenges in technology implementation. Key takeaways included the importance of minimising customisation, avoiding the hunt for perfection, and tailoring best practices to specific organisational needs.
The discussion also highlighted underutilised technologies with significant potential, such as augmented reality, modular construction, and blockchain for construction contract management. The experts shared their excitement about emerging technologies like AI and predictive analytics, sustainable materials, and robotics in hazardous areas.
This panel discussion provided a comprehensive overview of the current state and future trends of construction technology, offering valuable insights for professionals looking to navigate and leverage the digital transformation in the construction industry.
Cloud-based construction management software:
Cloud-based construction management software has been a major benefactor for the industry over the past 7 years, enabling better collaboration and coordination across the complex web of stakeholders involved in construction projects. The shift towards viewing construction professionals as “software developers” managing “code” has been a significant change.
Leveraging technology during COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of technology, as companies were able to continue the engineering and design phases remotely while construction was paused. This allowed projects to be better prepared when physical construction resumed.
Overcoming technology implementation challenges:
Key lessons learned to avoid pitfalls when implementing new technologies include:
- Minimising customisation and leveraging out-of-the-box functionality
- Avoiding the “hunt for perfection” and instead deploying a functional initial version
- Tailoring best practices to the specific needs and culture of the organisation, and
- Ensuring strong interdepartmental collaboration and communication.
Underutilised technologies with potential:
While some technologies like augmented reality and modular construction have shown promise, they have not yet been widely adopted in the industry. Blockchain for construction contract management is another technology that could drive significant efficiency if implemented effectively.
Improving productivity and efficiency:
Construction technology has enabled measurable improvements in productivity and efficiency, as evidenced by positive client feedback. However, there are still opportunities to further enhance construction processes and labour productivity through new technologies.
Emerging technologies and future trends:
Panellists are excited about the potential of technologies like AI/predictive analytics, sustainable materials and manufacturing, robotics in hazardous areas, and progress monitoring/automation. Establishing standards, guidelines, and data foundations will be key to enabling wider adoption and integration of these emerging solutions.
Watch the full panel discussion to gain a deeper understanding of these insights and more.
