2022 Construction Outlook

Challenges & trends in year ahead By Sean Clements and Craig Tappel Shortages of just about everything but work have been coloring the construction industry since 2020 due to upheavals caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. That doesn’t look to be changing in 2022. Surmounting the challenges to get the job done – on time, on budget and complying with safety requirements – will require construction superintendents to be aware and nimble in making necessary adjustments. That’s not necessarily going to be easy. Here are the forces you’ll have to contend with in 2022: No immediate fix for supply chain disruptions … Read more

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Being a Champion for Innovation in the Field

By Tyler Williams The labor shortage in the construction trades is being felt by every contractor nationwide while, at the same time, speed-to-market pressures from customers are as strong as ever. We’re working to build the next generation of workers in the skilled trades, but we need to build today’s jobs at the same time. So, there’s a conundrum: crews in the field have little appetite for disruption, but new methods of working that could make delivery more efficient need time to take hold. We are surrounded by potential “solutions” to construction problems, but how do you know what is … Read more

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Coordinating Virtual Design & Construction Efforts

The importance of field collaboration to project success By Dylan Lowder Recent changes in the AEC industry – like technological advances, more complex facilities, increased collaboration, earlier involvement of contractors and trade partners and more offsite prefabrication – are having a ripple effect throughout the design and construction world. One of the more notable ramifications is the role and value of virtual design and construction (VDC), which is evolving to meet these new needs and opportunities both in the field and in the office. The integration of VDC in all phases and among all partners is key to ensuring a … Read more

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How the Pandemic Highlights Growth Opportunities, Efficiencies in the Field

By Phil Bouthillette Speed is one of the great differentiators in our industry. Before COVID-19 hit, construction firms of all sizes were building and fine-tuning a better mousetrap for scheduling and logistics management that would allow them to gain a competitive edge, and win new business. But the pandemic has upended traditional jobsite workflows and functions, with many well laid-out plans having to be shelved and the ability to improvise and rapidly pivot now a more valuable commodity than ever. Before tackling how to adapt and evolve, construction superintendents must have a clear view of the playing field they now … Read more

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New Study Reveals Benefits of GIS in Design, Construction Industry

GIS is a critical part of the digital revolution in the design and construction industry, according to the findings of a new study, The Business Value of GIS for Design and Construction SmartMarket Report, released by Dodge Data and Analytics. The new research, funded by Esri and Autodesk, shows that use of GIS is continuing to grow in the industry as design and construction companies increasingly take advantage of its datasets and tools to improve their projects and grow their businesses. The study surveyed those with experience with using GIS, and it explores exactly how they are using it. The findings reveal … Read more

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