It is noticeable how the advancement of technology in recent times has contributed to increased productivity in different markets. In an increasingly competitive environment, it is critical that companies rethink their processes and technologies, and are open to the deployment of new solutions. In construction, this is no different, which generates a relationship between the industry 4.0 and the Civil Construction.

 

This concept is all about developing new aspects and ways of doing business. With increasingly specific needs, the Civil Construction industry takes advantage of this evolution in the proper way.

 

The relationship between Industry 4.0 and the Civil Construction Industry

With the rise of technology since the 1990s, due to the boom of the internet and the occurrence of automation, the world is experiencing its fourth Industrial Revolution. The changes are intense and relevant, which consolidates the concept of industry 4.0. In this sense, robotics is the great star, and it is expected from it, the complete replacement of workers at certain moments of a productive process.

 

The automotive industry is particularly advanced in this regard. Robots can assemble complete vehicles with repeatable, scalable quality. The interaction between the man and the machine guarantees a better direction in the decision making, due to a better control of the processes.

 

Civil Construction, for its part, has taken the first steps in this direction. It is not yet possible to replace entire teams with constructive robots. However, new construction methods have proven to be efficient with regard to quality and production efficiency. For example, Structural Masonry, Steel Frame, Wood Frame and Concrete Walls.

 

In this way, when talking about the connection between the industry 4.0 and the Civil Construction industry, it is already possible to notice some changes. The entry of new technologies has changed the direction of construction management creating various benefits. Because of this, many construction companies have been looking for technological enhancements.

 

The positive impacts in the Civil Construction sector

The proper entry of new technologies in the construction industry generates some desirable changes. From the planning, to the processes of control and construction management are all favored in certain aspects. The benefits also happen in the financial, commercial and strategic management of the company. The main positive points about the 4.0 industry in Construction are:

 

Increased productivity

One of the most relevant aspects in the entry of new technology is the chance to achieve increased productivity. With the automation of a few steps, such as information analysis, there is a smaller loss of time. This makes the managers more available to control the operation, thus generating better results for the company.

 

In addition, continuous process improvement is one way of reducing the chances of errors or rework. With centralized management and better decisions, you can manage the physical-financial schedule more easily. Thus, it is possible to complete the projects within the planned expectations of costs and deadlines.

 

Quality Improvement

Civil Construction needs to take care of quality so that companies can consolidate in the market. In this sense, industry 4.0 has a very important role to play. By means of management software, for example, it is easy to follow the physical-financial progress of the activities, as well as controlling the register of contacts and suppliers, which helps ensure the availability of professionals and materials in works.

 

It is also something that favors choices, such as budgeting or scheduling. With fewer failures, it is possible to achieve project quality expectations and ensure safe construction.

 

Management Optimization

Mainly, this technological evolution in Civil Construction aims to facilitate construction management works. Each stage of the work usually generates a lot of data, and it is not always easy to have visibility and control over them.

 

In this way, with the support of technology, it is easy to create control charts, centralize information and access them whenever necessary. Engagement for process improvement makes all the difference. That's because everything starts to flow optimally and according to strategic objectives.

 

Accessibility for companies of different sizes

It is important to understand that the union between Industry 4.0 and Civil Construction is not limited to large construction companies, contractors or developers. Today, it is possible for small businesses to adopt these capabilities and gain a competitive edge in the marketplace.

 

Going back to the management software, it is possible to find technological tools of practical use and uncomplicated implementation. By using a specific alternative for smaller companies, it is possible to have methods to consolidate a good operational performance. Accessibility, therefore, leads to democratization and increased competitiveness.

 

Increased Competitiveness

Combined, the positive impacts of industry 4.0 allow construction ventures to become more competitive. Increased productivity coupled with improved quality leads to reduced costs and the possibility of expanding investments and increasing dividends.

 

Quality gain helps you gain new customers, while more robust management helps you grow your business. Being accessible to many companies, new methods and features make the market more competitive.

 

And the negatives?

Regarding the results, the adoption of industry 4.0 only brings benefits. However, there are some points that require attention when talking about joining this concept to the branch of Civil Construction.

 

The main negative aspect has to do with the macroeconomic scenario. For countries where the level of industrialization is very low compared to large powers, the use of technology is somewhat limited.

 

The market potential is immense, but we need to think about creating structures to consolidate development. After all, it is not enough for the builder to present great automation and have to deal with the lack of materials or specialized manpower.

 

Therefore, there is an increasingly qualified workforce requirement. If there is already a shortage of professionals capable of performing certain functions, the tendency is that this will get worse. So, we need to invest in well-structured training to tap into the full potential of this opportunity.

 

Manuella Borgers, Innovva's architect and co-founder, comments that "Industry 4.0 decreases the supply of operational jobs in the industry, however there will be a need for more skilled professionals to perform specific activities. The relationship between industry 4.0 and civil construction is increasingly intense, even with challenges, this trend is very positive and deserves attention. "