Constructing the Importance of Big Data

Over the last decade, there's been an exponential increase in our technological advances and how we collect and analyze data has changed as a result. The data being referred to here is otherwise known as "big data," and while its three core attributes are its volume, velocity, and variety, most industries are still learning how to glean its meaningful insights to use to their advantage. Has the construction sector done a good job of gathering and processing said data?

As it turns out, the answer is no. According to FMI, 96% of the tremendous influx of data we see now is ultimately unused. This disregard and poor management of data can lead to astronomical losses, as seen in 2020 with a loss of $1.84 trillion in the construction industry! While it's clear that the construction industry is very open to incorporating technologies such as robotics, sensors, drones, and even augmented reality (AR), the processes have a fundamental flaw.

Whether it's a lack of understanding or an inefficient use of the data, projects are being poorly managed, costs are rising, and there's a concern for safety. However, modern problems require modern solutions. With artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and cloud computing, among other cutting edge technologies, project managers can save money, gain better insights for improved decision-making, and turn their jobsites into safer workplaces.

A Key and Cost-Effective Solution

As previously mentioned, "big data" comprises three core attributes: volume, velocity, and variety. Volume is the amount of data and how it is continuously growing. Velocity is the fast and accelerating rate at which the data becomes available. Lastly, variety refers to the diversity of the data. Since there's an unprecedented level of complexity in the gathering, storing, and analysis of all this information, let's take a look at some essential technologies that would help us with that.

• Sensors

  • Sensors in various industries can be used as a collection tool. Within construction, sensors can gather data on aspects like humidity, temperature, building site conditions, the usage of machinery, etc. Typically, the data accumulated is processed in real time, which can provide instant insights.

• Cloud Computing

  • Cloud Computing is a scalable and flexible internet-based infrastructure; big data can be stored and analyzed here in a more cost-effective manner than an on-premise solution. This would cut down on the costs and necessity for expensive and high-maintenance equipment.

• Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence (AI)

  • Artificial Intelligence, and more specifically, the subset, machine learning (ML), can be leveraged by companies and developers to analyze and extract insights to produce better project outcomes, identify potential risks, and more. Additionally, with supplementary technologies like computer vision, there can even be analysis of image and video content.

Big data is used to manage and optimize many parts of the construction process, such as risk, equipment, energy, and projects, on top of ensuring quality control. This is done using previously mentioned technologies and other supplementary ones like drones, augmented reality, and robotics. Together, with the assistance of experienced developers, construction companies and technology providers can take advantage of an alternative infrastructure and improve different facets of the industry.

In the simplest terms, leveraging both big data and the expertise software developers who can provide the tools necessary to understand it will lead to improved project outcomes, saved costs, and improved working conditions.

Embracing Technological Advances for Better Outcomes

Big data is a new challenge that won't disappear in the future, given our trajectory for continuous technological advancement. Our phones went from wired to wireless to then being more powerful than the systems NASA used to get us to the moon, all in a size that fits in our pockets. However, as digitization becomes the norm and the push for global internet connectivity continues, various industries must become proficient at dealing with an astronomical amount of data.

This mass of information has changed in intricacy, and even with our computers that can do so much more than sending us to the moon, it's become an impossibility. Within the construction industry especially, there are incredible consequences to not properly understanding or utilizing the data. According to FMI, only 55% of construction companies have a formal data plan in place. With something as crucial as data comprehension, it's important to look at what tools are available to make these jobs not only possible but more efficient.

Software developers can aid in the implementation of advanced solutions that will work in a shared network like the Internet of Things (IoT) and sensors and be able to analyze, understand, and ensure better decision-making as a whole with tools such as AI. While it may seem complicated, our modern era reflects complications in many ways, making the adoption of all of this tech more inevitable.