Construction Today - Vol 21 Issue 2 | Page 21

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Equipment
huge advantage for construction firms and businesses . For example , it can be used to help prioritize tasks , identify dependencies , and improve efficiencies . It can also help predict cost overruns by crunching historical data , analyze 3D scans of a site to fully understand the true project status or identify potential issues so your team can work to resolve them earlier .
Sensors , drones , Internet of Things ( IoT ) devices , robotics , immersive collaboration , and 3D printing are a few other emerging technologies that are pushing construction boundaries . These types of tech can be used to not only increase productivity , enhance safety and allow companies to further its scalability , they can also help track project progress in real time and communicate with all involved parties of any issues or pending risks .
Creating sustainable designs
In addition to using new technologies , the use of advanced construction materials can help meet project requirements while providing benefits such as a reduced carbon footprint , fewer emissions and less waste . With new regulations and a continued focus on sustainability , customers are increasingly more likely to place pressure on developers to find more sustainable methods of construction .
One great way to support sustainable design is to choose products that are reusable and reconfigurable because they can be adapted in the case of future changes . According to Hubbell Wiring Systems , some sustainable materials could include :
• Modular systems that are reusable and reconfigurable to accommodate potential future changes to the design and reduce waste associated with needing to be replaced .
• Products with similar longevity to the building itself to reduce the change of them needing to be replaced and causing additional waste .
• Products with minimal packaging and are not created with hazardous materials like lead , mercury , cadmium , hexavalent chromium , etc . Navigating the future of construction Whether its cost management , increased efficiency , better risk mitigation or improved sustainability and safety , these trends show no slowing down in 2024 . When addressed proactively , these trends not only allow the business to remain competitive but can also help reduce cost and improve profitability for years to come . ■
Tracy Buelow www . zoro . com
Tracy Buelow serves as the Vice President , Category Management at Zoro . com , which is an ecommerce business , providing supplies , equipment , and tools to help its customers find exactly what they need to develop and maintain a successful business . The company , a Grainger subsidiary , continues to upgrade its offerings and services to make it easy and seamless for contractors and businesses alike to get the materials they need .
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