While economies globally remain volatile – including in South Africa – there are reasons for those in the construction industry to feel optimistic says Morag Evans, CEO, Databuild.
This industry finds itself in a unique position says Evans, who points to the increase in relevance of trends including artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, sustainable practices, smart building technology, drones, robotics and workforce automation.
“There is no doubt about the positive impact that technology has in construction. Despite challenges, the industry strives to keep up with advances in technology,” says Evans.
Technology like modular construction will dominate this year. This trend empowers developers to transport and assemble prefabricated modules on-site, which reduces the impact on environments and helps stakeholders meet very tight deadlines.
Evans adds that AI and machine learning will not go unnoticed in construction, particularly when it comes to managing construction projects.
“It’s not about only working harder, it’s about working harder and smarter. This year we can expect AI and machine learning to lead in project management and help stakeholders with real time analysis to manage resources effectively, modifying plans, and ensuring compliance with sustainability and safety protocols,” says Evans.
Databuild concurs with the general industry expectation that Building Information Modelling (BIM) will be at the forefront of comprehensive and effective construction project management.
Evans adds that sustainability, eco-friendly work, and smart technology will also gain traction in construction within emerging markets like Africa.
“Eco consciousness has always featured in the construction industry, but in 2025, ensuring eco-friendly and sustainable practices is a necessity for any project to proceed. There are many avenues to consider here, including renewable energy, and compliance with safety and sustainability policies and regulations,” Evans says.
Smart construction
The construction industry acknowledges the need to keep up with the advances in technology.
This is especially true if one considers the relevance of cloud, IOT, robotics and drones adds Evans.
Azobuild.com outlines the influence of 5G networks, drones, and robotics that are used to manage projects in real time and help to reduce risks, labour issues and costs.
Stakeholders are expected to take a greater interest in augmented and virtual reality.
“These technologies are instrumental in helping service providers and other stakeholders in the construction industry to merge the physical and digital worlds. We agree with Azobuild that this year, these technologies will emerge as strategic tools for project management,” Evans continues.
Rise of the datacentre
Another reason for stakeholders in the construction industry to be optimistic is because of increasing investment in datacentre infrastructure.
More companies are investing in physical datacentre sites, and this bodes well for growth within construction.
“We are seeing more investment in datacentre infrastructure sites as businesses integrate the digital with the physical. South Africa is keeping up with international trends, including the application of digital tools to streamline operations, enhance safety, and ensure an improved customer experience,” says Evans.
Databuild believes 2025 will be the year for progressive technologies including robotics and digital twin.
According to Evans, automation will be a mainstay differentiator, with service providers increasing their investment in technologies to streamline arduous and time-consuming project tasks.
The company says the sentiment from the construction industry is that projects must be digitised, all processes and procedures should be automated, and there needs to be an easy, straightforward and hassle-free mechanism in place to ensure that projects are delivered on time, according to specifications and with no regulatory complications.
“The onus is on all stakeholders in construction to be aware of, and follow, industry regulation. South Africa has legislation which governs commercial and private building construction. This legislation covers compliance with labour laws, building codes, environmental issues, as well as security,” Evans continues.
There are still challenges that the construction industry has to deal with – including the availability of skills, proof of sustainability, adherence to policies and commercial by-laws etc.
“But, it would be fair to say that the construction industry finds itself in a more hopeful position. There is market demand and no shortage of competition among service providers. If stakeholders play by the rules, unite against construction mafia, for example, leverage emerging technology and cooperate for the greater good of the industry and the country, there is every reason to feel optimistic about the future,” says Evans.
For more information about our services, visit https://www.databuild.co.za
