We need to stimulate new thinking, debate and research directions to carry the industry into the next decade, says Dr Brian Sheil
Our project vision unites people, processes and technologies across four distinct paired dimensions: digital, physical, onsite and offsite. Certainty in delivery, achieving the trajectory required for net zero carbon, heightened productivity and increased social value will converge to mark a new era for construction. Here we identify the three key areas that underpin this transformative change.
Digital transformation
From a digital perspective, the deployment of digital twin technology is central to our 2030 vision. This advanced technology allows the creation of a replica image of the physical world in the digital realm, combining both semantic and geometric information. Leveraging data science, actionable insights can be extracted from these digital twins, empowering intelligent decision-making that drives project success.
Traditional construction elements will be replaced with cutting-edge practices
Turning to the physical processes, we expect to see innovative materials and lifecycle processes. With a determination to achieve net zero carbon targets and minimise the industry’s impact on climate change, innovative solutions will span the entirety of a project’s lifecycle.
Our vision for processes involves automated logistics seamlessly facilitating the movement of materials, equipment, and supplies. Traditional construction elements will be replaced with cutting-edge practices, exemplified by the goal of implementing real-time monitoring through connected autonomous plants.
Early progress in modern methods of construction (MMC) will evolve further, culminating in significantly increased automation by 2030 (eg fully automated offsite production, semi-automated on-site assembly). Digital twin-led practices and Internet of Things support will drive this automation, closely tied to the establishment of a flexible and reconfigurable kit of parts catalogue.
Performance measurement
As 2030 approaches, intelligent construction project performance measurement will become a reality, enabled by mature data capture technologies and exchange standards. The foundational element involves the establishment of consistent and universally accepted performance metrics, notably in relation to time, cost and quality, ranging from overarching project evaluation to granular task-specific assessments.
Subsequently, the integration of cutting-edge tools such as sensors, cameras and laser scanners for automated data collection is poised to foster seamless and continuous information acquisition.
By 2030, we envisage real-time data interpretation that transcends conventional graphical representations, enabling immediate contextual insights that, in turn, empower informed decision-making and strategic planning. Furthermore, the iterative cycle of automated improvement actions ensures that insights gleaned are promptly translated into tangible enhancements.
This cycle culminates with comprehensive reviews at both team and business levels, fostering a culture of continuous learning and adaptive refinement.
Skilled workforce
The role of skilled individuals is also pivotal to our transformational vision. As technologies advance, the workforce will undergo upskilling to harness the potential of new tools and methodologies.
Emerging roles include generative designers proficient in AI-driven optimal designs, sensor system integrators adept at consolidating data flows, and net zero evaluators merging environmental evaluation with construction planning.
The industry will need to take proactive steps to nurture these talents, offering personalised career development paths and leveraging programs like the Construction Engineering Masters program to equip current and future leaders for success. We also see safety practices being integrated into every aspect of a construction project, ensuring the wellbeing of all members.
By 2030, we expect to see a construction industry that not only embraces innovation but thrives on it
In parallel, a culture of diversity and wellbeing takes root, fostering an inclusive construction environment. Promoting diversity, prioritising wellbeing, including mental health support and nurturing a sense of shared responsibility and empowerment will be central to future workforce recruitment and retention.
Recognising the seismic changes brought about by these advancements, we anticipate organisational shifts. Traditional reporting systems and decision-making structures are poised to evolve, ensuring alignment with the new ways of working and the expertise of the transformed workforce.
By 2030, we expect to see a construction industry that not only embraces innovation but thrives on it, setting new standards and achieving unparalleled project outcomes.
Dr Brian Sheil is the Laing O’Rourke associate professor in construction engineering at the University of Cambridge. This article is taken from the Cambridge Laing O’Rourke Centre for Construction Engineering and Technology’s 2020-23 review. The full review can be accessed here
No comments yet