[Construction DX] Helping to alleviate labor shortages and an aging workforce! What are the benefits of DX in the construction industry?
It's been a while since we've heard the word "DX," but many people may be saying, "I don't know exactly what to do." This time, we will talk about DX in the construction industry, which is said to be difficult to advance due to various circumstances.
The construction industry is lagging behind in DX compared to other industries
First, let's take a look at what exactly "DX" refers to. According to the definition of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry,
In response to rapid changes in the business environment, companies are leveraging data and digital technology to transform their products, services, and business models based on the needs of customers and society, while also changing their operations, organizations, processes, and corporate culture.・Transforming the culture and establishing a competitive advantage
Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry “Digital Governance Code 2.0”
It says. While the similar term "ITization" promotes efficiency within the company by making internal applications easier to complete online and making various documents paperless, "DX" refers to improving internal efficiency by making internal applications easier to complete online and making various documents paperless. The idea is to involve suppliers and customers in promoting digitalization and aim to improve competitiveness within the industry.
This part of ``involving business partners and customers'' is one of the reasons why DX in the construction industry is difficult to advance. There are many small businesses such as one-man households, and the population is aging, so there are many people who are reluctant to introduce new systems or go digital.
Three benefits of DX
So, what are the benefits of proceeding with DX? I have listed three representative ones.
Realizing a safe and comfortable working environment
- Introduction of unmanned/autonomous construction using robots and AI
- Utilization of power assist suit
A safe and comfortable working environment can be achieved at dangerous work sites by using heavy equipment that can be controlled remotely using VR, and by wearing power assist suits when carrying heavy objects.
Improve operational efficiency
- Unification of information by introducing BIM/CIM (3D model)
- Surveying using drones
BIM/CIM is software that creates 3D models of buildings and structures. It is possible to simulate more specifically than 2D CAD. Information such as costs, materials, and construction schedules can be collected here, making work more efficient.
Additionally, surveying using a drone can significantly reduce work time and the number of people involved.
Smooth technology inheritance
- Visualize skilled technology
- Let AI learn the techniques of skilled workers and learn judgment criteria
By using motion sensors to visualize the movements of skilled workers, we can convey technology to younger workers in an easy-to-understand manner. In addition, if AI is trained to use the judgment criteria of skilled workers, it will eventually be able to make decisions itself, allowing the skills of skilled workers to be widely utilized.
In this way, DX has the great advantage of countering labor shortages and an aging population. Many local governments have various subsidy systems available for support, so if you are concerned about financial issues, please contact your local government.
In addition, ACT-ONE Yamaichi will continue to provide equipment and services that are compatible with the flow of DX, such as strengthening data management, and will do our best to be of help to everyone. If you have any trouble with construction equipment, please feel free to contact us!
*The published photo is an image.
*All article contents are based on cases in Japan.