Using Drones To Solve Building Site Challenges

Building Site Monitoring Problems

Monitoring progress of a building site can be a complex and challenging task, and there are several key challenges that need to be addressed to ensure accurate and effective monitoring. Some of these challenges include:

Time and Cost Constraints

One of the main challenges in monitoring progress of a building site is the limited time and resources available to complete the project. The monitoring process needs to be efficient and cost-effective to ensure that the project stays on track and within budget.

Drones can capture high-resolution aerial imagery and video footage of the construction site, which can be used to create 3D models and accurate maps of the site. This data can be quickly collected and analyzed to provide real-time information on progress, which can help project managers make informed decisions about scheduling and resource allocation.

Drones can help reduce the time and costs associated with monitoring progress on a building site. They can quickly cover large areas and collect data that might otherwise require multiple personnel or equipment.

Communication and Coordination

Construction sites typically involve multiple contractors, subcontractors, and stakeholders who need to communicate and coordinate effectively to ensure that the project progresses smoothly. Monitoring progress requires clear communication channels and effective coordination among all parties involved.

Drones can provide a bird's-eye view of the site, which can help improve communication and coordination among stakeholders. For example, drone footage can be shared with contractors and subcontractors to help them better understand the site and identify potential issues or areas for improvement.

Accuracy of Data

Accurate data is critical for monitoring progress, and it can be challenging to gather and track data in real-time. There may be delays or errors in data collection, which can impact the accuracy of progress reports.

Drones can capture accurate and detailed data on the site, which can help improve the accuracy of progress reports and identify potential issues before they become major problems.

Unforeseen Issues

Building sites are subject to a wide range of unforeseen issues, such as weather events, supply chain disruptions, and labor shortages, which can impact progress and delay the completion of the project. Effective monitoring needs to take into account these potential issues and adjust plans accordingly.

Drones can help address unforeseen issues on a building site by providing real-time data and imagery that can be used to quickly identify and assess potential problems. For example, drones can be used to conduct site inspections after severe weather events to identify any damage or safety hazards. They can also be used to monitor the site and ensure that work is progressing as planned, even if there are supply chain disruptions or labour shortages. This information can then be used to adjust plans and make informed decisions about resource allocation and scheduling, helping to minimize delays and keep the project on track.

Safety Concerns

Monitoring progress on a building site also requires ensuring that the site is safe and secure for workers and visitors. Safety concerns can impact progress if work needs to be halted or delayed due to safety issues.

Drones can be used to conduct safety inspections and identify potential hazards on the site. They can also be used to monitor workers and ensure that they are following safety protocols.

Overall, effective monitoring of progress on a building site requires careful planning, coordination, and communication among all parties involved, as well as a focus on accurate data collection and addressing potential challenges and safety concerns as they arise.

A Case Study of How Drone Mapping Resolved a Conflict

Two contractors were working on a building site, one responsible for excavation work and the other for foundation work. The contractor responsible for foundation work claimed that they couldn't start their work because the excavation work was not complete. The contractor responsible for excavation work, however, claimed that their work was complete, and the foundation contractor was delaying the project.

The dispute was easily resolved by referring to the latest of the weekly drone maps which showed the progress of both contractors' work. The model revealed that the excavation work was indeed complete, and there were no obstructions that would prevent the foundation contractor from starting their work. The foundation contractor was able to start their work, and the project progressed as planned.

The drone mapping helped to provide an objective view of the site, which helped to resolve the dispute between the two contractors. It also saved time and costs associated with manual inspection and allowed for a quick resolution to the dispute.