Hexagon study shows construction firms ‘embracing autonomous tech at unprecedented rates’

A new study by tech company Hexagon has found that 84% of technology decision-makers at general contracting firms across North America, the UK, and Australia have adopted some form of autonomous technology in the last year to address key business challenges. This is according to Hexagon’s Autonomous Construction Tech Outlook, which is based on input from over 1,000

79% said they will be investing more in autonomous (or automated) technology (Photo: AdobeStock)

senior executives.

Hexagon’s study highlights the significant impact that autonomous technology can have on the construction industry, from improving safety and efficiency to supporting sustainability and profitability.

However, the study also reveals that many firms are struggling to identify the best autonomous or automated technology to address their specific challenges and pain points, indicating a need for greater education and awareness around the technology. The study concludes that the firms that will redefine the industry are those that embrace autonomous technology as part of their core strategy and use it to drive innovation and business resiliency.

Despite strong adoption and investment numbers, the study has found a significant disconnect in the industry’s understanding of the technology, its application, and its benefits, which could hinder optimization if not addressed. The study also shows that the sector embraces autonomous technology as one of the most promising solutions.

The most popular application of the technology is project management, followed closely by workplace safety, quality control, surveying, and vehicle operation says Hexagon’s study.

Nonetheless, even with a wide variety of solutions available, it has been found that firms appear to have trouble identifying the best autonomous or automated technology to solve their specific challenges and pain points. The disparity between technology selection and business priorities represents a significant opportunity to help firms better address specific challenges and pain points through more targeted autonomous technology adoption.

For a copy of Hexagon’s Autonomous Construction Technology Outlook white paper, “Achieving better project outcomes through autonomy”, visit here.