Tech survey reveals construction’s need for digital solutions

KHL’s second annual construction technology survey revealed that 64.9% of industry respondents placed technology high on their agenda, with over a third (35.1%) saying it was ‘very high’ on the agenda.

The survey also revealed that new technology could be rapidly introduced on projects, with almost half (46.8%) of respondents saying their companies will purchase new digital technology solutions this year.

A further 38.3% said the introduction of some form of technology before the end of 2023 was a possibility.

The survey found that the economic pressures being faced by the industry – along with concerns over the ongoing conflict in Ukraine – had, if anything, increased the willingness of construction companies to purchase technology.

Software a priority

Just 1% of respondents said technology had become less important to them over the past two years, while 41.5% said it had become more important – and 29.8% said it had become ‘significantly more important’.

In terms of the effectiveness of digital solutions currently being utilised, 18.1% of respondents claimed project management software was the most important, while BIM placed second with 16%. Autonomy and remote-control solutions ranked third with 11.7% saying it had been an important purchase.

One major challenge, which could hold back the adoption of technology in the industry is the recruitment of skilled staff.

Over 60% of survey respondents said they were experiencing difficulties finding people with the right technology skills, which could yet prove to be the biggest stumbling block for tech companies looking to enter the construction market.

In the coming weeks, KHL will publish the full results of its Construction Technology Survey in a white paper, which will be available as a free download.