Big Data Changing Engineering and Construction

Fremont, CA: In other industries, big data has become a big deal. Big data is still in its infancy in architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC), but it is already influencing how we design and construct buildings. Big data in construction offers a way to improve existing processes and make informed decisions about future projects at a time when everyone is looking for ways to do more with less. These are only four examples of how big data in construction is transforming the industry.

Better Health and Safety

For many years, data analysis has been used in health and safety – there are numerous statistics available that show the relationship between the number of near misses received and the number of accidents that occur as a result, for example. However, the increasingly sophisticated analytical techniques available can assist in identifying and comprehending the risk factors that may lead to an incident. It's also simpler than ever to segment data and drill down into data to identify potential risk groups that aren't always obvious on the surface.

With this level of understanding, health and safety procedures can be updated to reflect what the data is highlighting, reducing the likelihood of an accident occurring.

Improved Cost Control and Prediction

Cost control has always been a hotly debated topic. While cost analyses have been available for some time, big data in construction can help refine the information and identify patterns where wastage occurs in the business. Experienced personnel has typically determined the potential profitability of projects. Big data transforms this knowledge into an easily accessible format, allowing for factual analysis and reliable predictions to be made before contracts are tendered. Data analytics can also help improve contract control by identifying the conditions that have led to schedule or budget overruns and alerting staff that preventative measures may be required based on past performance history.