The rise of advanced tech and IoT (Internet of Things) in the construction industry has seen rapid advancement in the past five years. In KPMG’s 2017 Global Construction Survey, fewer than half of respondents had a technology road map for improving project controls and only a fifth used project management information systems across all projects. Yet only four years later, in the 2021 survey contractors and owners reported significant adoption of planning software (PMI), Building Information Management (BIM) and advanced data & analytics.
This year’s survey noted how the accelerated adoption of innovative technologies during the pandemic has been a “game changer” for efficiency. It allowed projects to continue through better virtual communication, digital collaboration and even remote site management with drones and other technology. Technology adoption advanced significantly in four years, rewarding early adopters and increasing popularity of tools such as these. Currently, over 80% of owners and contractors are planning to make moderate-to-high investments in technology to continue driving their efficiency.
“But for many companies the question remains – how can you market your operational tech advantages to current and potential customers? Beyond providing operational advantages, sharing your technology adoption can also build your brand with current and prospective customers and set you apart.” said Matt Samson, MAYO Web Design and Marketing Services, Building Industry Marketing & Strategic Advisor.
Assess The IoT You Have
It starts with an audit of the IoT technologies you’re using to manage resources and monitor building performance. This includes project management software, machine automation, smart building technology, and drones or other monitoring equipment. Look for where you are getting results, and where there may be an engaging story to tell.
Then it’s simple…use the information collected, results, and visual assets to create content that shows how IoT data points lower costs while reducing emissions. Get granular by breaking down the return on investment while also showing the simplicity of implementation and effectiveness of the automations.
Putting Data to Work
To get you started, here are a few ideas on how IoT data points can set you apart from the competition:
- Design an infographic that illustrates how smart building technology automates utility use based on attendance, featuring the cost savings and environmental benefits. (People LOVE visuals.)
- Write a blog post on how to tackle a challenge with a simple solution, like grey water landscaping irrigation, sharing data from IoT monitoring that shows a reduction in both emissions and expenses.
- Create a video on how IoT machine monitoring and automation can reduce gas and energy needs during construction. (54% of consumers want to see more video content from a brand or business they support. This goes to show that the demand for video content is also increasing.)
The rapid increase in businesses considering new tech adoption (including various IoT implementations) is an indicator that IoT solutions are becoming more mainstream and affordable. And with the construction industry changing rapidly, companies using IoT solutions can successfully address typical industry challenges such as large, geographically dispersed teams who need to efficiently communicate and share project information.
