Technology has been a driving force behind many changes in the workplace, particularly across the construction, engineering, mining and resources sectors. Innovations like Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) or “cloud” technologies and mobile data applications are swiftly replacing older IT infrastructure systems and processes.
With numerous stakeholders involved in projects, traditional manual methods are prone to miscommunication, resulting in errors and incorrect documentation. The responsibility to resolve these issues usually falls tothe project manager.
The rapid advancement of technology in the last five years has dramatically transformed the way information is now accessed, shared and stored. This offers numerous benefits to project managers by vastly improving efficiency and productivity across all aspects of project delivery.
Mobile devices are commonplace on any construction site and are increasingly being integrated into the ecosystem of information sharing. There is a growing expectation amongst mobile device users that they will be able to access data on the go, which in turn will help improve the flow of communication.
Mobile devices can capture and receive valuable information in the form of photos, images, video and audio.
Yet many companies’ key software systems are not accessible via mobile devices to users on the move. As a result, they are unable to take advantage of real-time data capture.
The transformation of cloud and mobile technologies is benefiting field inspections and defects management. Traditional checklists and spreadsheets are gradually giving way to real-time applications that enable instant notification and actioning of on-site issues.
Screenshot via Aconex
Early adopters have been able to speed up processes and benefit from the flexibility offered by web and mobile-based programs. New products designed specifically for the construction and engineering industry are helping project managers address wasted time and inefficiencies. Enabling users to report, communicate and track defects accelerates the process of identifying and resolving issues.
This in turn supports accountability and transparency by providing an audit trail for effectively managing and monitoring the flow of communication amongst all project participants.
The highest-value applications offer easy-to-use, intuitive navigation and functionality so that project managers under constant pressure can quickly identify and resolve problems as they occur to ensure that their projects progress on schedule and on budget.
A boom in the use of mobile devices for project management is expected to occur over the next 12-24 months. This trend will continue to improve project management practices and the quality of project outcomes.
Steven Brant is General Manager of Australia and New Zealand for Aconex
