In the post-Covid era, we will see the emergence of contactless construction.

- Denis Branthonne

Founder and CEO, Novade

What transformational impact the construction software can bring in the AEC domain?

Construction software ultimately will help the industry save time, money and unnecessary labour. Lean construction, connected construction and remote construction is now easier to implement with digital solutions, and will address many of the issues faced in the AEC domain.

Where there was inconsistent data, companies can now access data with one source of truth. Poor communication, or lag in communication, can result in serious misunderstandings and delays. Digitalisation offers instant communication and real-time visibility to address any issues instantly. Traditional methods of working often results in a lack of transfer of knowledge, with no access to smart data. Construction software like Novade enables smooth control of projects across all stages, with visualisations and analytics that translate field data into actionable knowledge for decision-makers.

What creative role the same can play in the rebuilding process?

The process of rebuilding is very similar to the processes in the AEC domain, and includes aspects such as permits, repairs, construction, dismantling, reassembling, and inspections. A digital solution like Novade can create economies of scale by digitising all processes, with all records accessed through the app. Clear definitions of roles and scopes of work can be planned out in advance, enabling everyone to work faster and more efficiently, whether they are in the field or in the office.

What do you think the major challenges in this and what are your suggestion to iron those issues out?

Many companies are still resistant towards digitalisation, as this involves a new aspect of investment, both in terms of capital and resources such as training of workers. As an industry traditionally dependent on manual labour, I can understand their concerns. Change is always difficult, but as the world moves towards digitalisation, so must the AEC industry. Tightened budgets amid the economic downturn due to the corona virus will provide an added challenge, but construction software will help save costs and increase productivity in the long run. Hand in hand with governments, the industry and the media, an increased effort to reach out to construction companies and share how Novade has benefitted other companies within the industry is important in helping to change mindset. We aim to digitally transform the industry one company at a time, it does not matter the size of the company or the project.

How do you expect the post Covid era to unfold and what will be your contributory role?

With the onset of Covid-19, the construction industry is forced to digitalise at a faster pace than anticipated. Firstly, there will be an increased focus on health and safety of workers. Contractors need to consider remote collaboration tools to reduce the need for manual labour. Secondly, there will be the need to increase productivity in anticipation of or to make up for the roadblocks faced due to Covid-19 and increased safety restrictions.

Novade is able to help its clients from the ground up cope efficiently with the various levels of lock-down measures implemented around the world. Managers can continue to remotely monitor their resources and project completion via the app. Likewise, Novade will enable teams in the field to continue to work safely and efficiently with safe site management in place. Data capture and data analytics can all be executed and accessed remotely.

In the post-covid era, we will see the emergence of contactless construction. The need to maintain operations safely and stay competitive will compel more construction companies to explore the benefits of digitalisation. With a solution like Novade, construction companies can expect a return on investments in productivity of up to 20% time reduction for repetitive tasks and cycles, in quality of up to 50% time reduction for defect rectification processes, and in safety of up to 50% reduction in safety compliance management.

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