The Impact of New Communication Technologies in the Construction Industry
(Abstract; full editorial available at www.cmo-compliance.com)

The construction industry has in the last decade experienced a radical change in terms of the technology and resources that are becoming available and that have transformed the traditional processes of at construction sites. Construction is an industry where the availability and on-time deliverance of accurate information is a crucial factor for the timely completion a project, and if unavailable could end up causing delays and the need to re-do work.

Handheld computers, online construction management systems and on-site webcams are the most significant new communication tools that are changing the construction industry. Extensive research and company case studies over the years have demonstrated the high time savings - and consequently cost-savings- that can be realised when implementing these new technologies. As a result, companies in the construction industry are striving to keep up with these changes in order to stay competitive.

The use of handheld computers and construction management systems can provide the means for constructers to collect reliable and accurate information directly from the field, and allow them to instantly inform all parties involved of the status of the project without the need of physical meetings. On-site webcams allow construction supervisors/architects to view the construction site at any stage without having to visit the location. Furthermore, these time saving tools will allow construction site supervisors to spend less time on project/materials management and completing forms, hence allowing for more time to be spent supervising workers on a project site, which could lead to higher productivity and quality of work.

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