According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the U.S. population has grown substantially in the last year, outpacing average annual growth. Catering for this massive population growth will require an enormous investment in new housing, more retail, better roads, bigger schools and hospitals, more critical utilities and stormwater infrastructure amongst much more.

Amid this intensifying demand, and what many are dubbing a golden age of infrastructure, the construction industry stands at a crossroads. Although poised to thrive from this unprecedented investment and innovation, the sector is facing significant challenges, including a shortfall of skilled labor, more stringent regulation of standards and increased frequency of unpredictable weather events. There is a clear need for innovative, more efficient construction methods that deliver speed, efficiency and resilience.

Amongst the many innovative methods developed to address these challenges, industrialized construction which streamlines the building process through the use of prefabrication, modular building systems, structural precast concrete elements and other advanced manufacturing techniques continues to grow in demand. Digital integration is fundamental to this approach, with each phase of a project meticulously planned using advanced digital tools, which ensures seamless communication and coordination, enhances precision and allows for more efficient modifications.

Reprinted courtesy of Nathan Creech, Construction Executive, a publication of Associated Builders and Contractors. All rights reserved.