IT support for construction has emerged as a beacon of hope, empowering construction companies to overcome the limitations imposed by outdated practices and embrace a transformative future. While the construction sector proudly accounts for around 10% of the UK’s economic output, it remains tethered to the constraints of inefficient modernisation. Despite the technological revolution that has swept across industries, the construction sector has been hesitant to fully embrace this evolution. In 2015, a staggering 52% of contractors clung to the archaic methods of pen and paper for crucial processes, such as bids, estimates, and project management. However, a beacon of change is emerging. In 2020, 81% of UK contractors surveyed signalled their intent to embark on a digital transformation journey, marking a decisive shift in industry sentiment.
As the use of technology in the construction sector is still really in its infancy, many businesses may still be unsure of the advantages of IT support for construction. In this article, we will lay out the top 5 benefits, from communication to specialist expertise and beyond.
Construction is an extremely mobile industry, with contractors continually moving between sites. Not least for health and safety reasons, it is vital that team members are able to remain in contact with each other, whether they are in the office or onsite. This is where IT support for construction can help. VoIP technology is an impressive facilitator when it comes to mobile communication. VoIP solutions allow you to integrate the features of your on-premises handset into your mobile device, meaning you can access your telephone system no matter where you are working. As VoIP solutions conduct calls over the internet, the audio quality is also extremely clear, helping to avoid disruptive miscommunications when conveying information about a project.
In the construction industry, adaptability is paramount. However, at times organisation can suffer at the hands of continual mobility and flexibility. Moving sites, juggling multiple projects and liaising with different clients can make administration difficult. The solution? Cloud technology. The Cloud is more than just a platform on which to store data. Contractors can use Cloud technology to update documents, schedules and management tools in real-time and share these changes with team members instantly. The Cloud can also be leveraged for efficient data entry and file organisation, as employees can submit timecards, expense reports, work records and information requests. With all the data stored and organised in the Cloud, it is easy to access and secure the essential information you need for construction projects. The right IT support for Construction will be able to assist your rapid migration to the Cloud and facilitate the fast implementation of these solutions.
A key element of IT support for construction, is the introduction of automation. Automation has a range of benefits for the sector, including improving productivity and minimising human error. As 30% of prospective buyers state that improved accuracy is their primary reason for seeking new construction software, this is crucial. AI technology can be used onsite to automate key tasks, such as cement mixing, or in the office to enhance the efficiency of a workflow. An experienced IT support provider, like CHS Networks, will be able to identify key areas of your business that could benefit from AI and automation, and help you through the transition to these new technologies.
In the ever-evolving landscape of construction, where safety reigns supreme, IT support for construction emerges as a steadfast guardian, empowering businesses to cultivate a work environment where safety is paramount. By harnessing the illuminating insights gleaned from the vast expanse of Big Data, construction companies can proactively identify potential hazards, akin to discerning the faint rumblings of an impending storm, and implement preventive measures before they materialise into regrettable accidents. Through meticulous analysis of intricate datasets, trends and patterns of behaviour on construction sites, once shrouded in obscurity, can be unearthed, providing invaluable information for risk assessment and crafting effective mitigation strategies. Furthermore, Big Data can be instrumental in optimising construction project phasing, ensuring that safety is seamlessly integrated from the very inception of a project, akin to weaving a sturdy shield from the outset, rendering dangers powerless before they have a chance to materialise.
When investing in IT support for construction, you should identify a provider with specialist expertise in the industry. CHS has extensive experience providing IT solutions to the construction sector, so we truly understand the complexities and challenges of onsite IT support. We have developed unique, industry-specific processes to aid our provision of IT solutions. From carrying out detailed risk assessments before stepping foot on a site, to liaising with key sector vendors, we tailor our approach for the construction industry. Whether you need a simple PC fix or to adopt a completely new connectivity solution, we can assist with any IT support issue you may face.
If you want to discover how our specialist IT support can build your construction business towards its goals, get in touch with one of our representatives today.
