Workflow automation refers to the use of technology to automate repetitive work processes by employing software solutions. It comes with a range of advantages which has prompted many businesses to implement it.
Automation is present across a variety of different industries, and the construction industry is no different. Since the generic software usually used for workflow automation doesn’t quite fulfil the needs of construction work, special pieces of software have emerged. This new area of workflow automation is referred to as Construction Workflow Automation (CWA). Read on to find out what benefits this kind of workflow automation brings to construction and how it can help you execute your daily tasks.
Allows You to Oversee all Operations
A major perk of using construction workflow automation software is the ability to oversee all operations at once. This allows you to have an insight into all areas of the construction process and spot any areas of work that need modification. It is helpful in terms of improving safety on the construction site, spotting and fixing mistakes, as well as knowing how to organize the workflow.
Allows for a Detailed Analysis of Data
Construction workflow automation software doesn’t only provide data but also analyzes it. This allows you to make necessary tweaks in the workflow processes for improved results. The software can provide and analyze data regarding the costs of construction and allow you to make cost reductions by finding better alternatives. Also, it can help with making sure the equipment is in good condition. For example, fleet management software provides detailed information about the use of vehicles, including for how long the vehicle was used. This allows for better maintenance of the fleet.
Increases Productivity
Workflow automation speeds up the construction process, resulting in increased productivity. Having software perform mundane tasks allows workers to concentrate on tasks that require human intervention. Some of these tasks include:
- data entry,
- handling invoices,
- placing orders,
- requests for information (RFIs).
Employing reliable construction equipment fleet management software enables you to connect your Internet of Things (IoT) devices to the software platform. A platform, such as Perspio, can handle the process of ordering supplies, among other things. For example, when your fuel tank sensors signal to the platform that a vehicle is low on fuel, the software automatically places an order. Then, it tracks the fuel truck and alerts your team when the truck is close to the site. This immensely increases productivity since no one has to monitor the fuel levels and order fuel manually.
Reduces Safety Risks
There’s no doubt that construction sites are full of safety hazards. Even with all the safety measures in place, accidents still sometimes happen. Data analysis provided by automation software can help avoid some of the accidents, as it enables you to monitor the workers and set up alerts. This is a very important aspect of automation as it can prevent many work-related injuries and even fatal outcomes. For example, fleet management software can analyze the driver’s behaviour, including the driving speed. Then, you can warn the driver to slow down. Furthermore, knowing that their driving is being monitored, the workers are more likely to comply with safety measures.
Enables Better Organization
As was mentioned above, using construction automation workflow software allows you to have an insight into all the processes. Not only can you find ways to make the work more cost-effective, but it can be more time-efficient as well. Since the software handles repetitive processes, the workers have more time for other tasks. This allows you to organize the workflow in a way that is the most efficient. Since you have access to the data, including who is responsible for which tasks, you can monitor each worker’s efficiency and make changes and organize the work differently if you deem it necessary.
Decreases The Chance of Making Major Errors
Processes such as manual data entry are not only time-consuming but are prone to errors since they are performed entirely by humans. Using adequate software to take care of data entry and other repetitive processes reduces the margin of error by a great deal. The software has the edge over human workers in such tasks because people can get tired and lose concentration, while software performs the way it was programmed. Major errors can lead to added costs, which is why construction workflow automation can be very helpful. It can save a construction company a great deal of money.
Wrapping Up
All in all, workflow automation can certainly help with particular processes in the construction industry. Not only does it make data input and analysis faster and error-free, but it reduces safety risks and increases productivity. That’s not to say that tech is there to replace human workers, as their expertise and skills are still needed in other areas.
