Using Big Data in Construction

Last Updated:
December 27, 2018
by
Ole Jensen
Time to Read:
minutes

Big data is often defined as large data sets that can be analyzed to reveal patterns, trends and associations. While big data is commonly used in industries across Canada, its role in construction is constantly evolving.

For example, a firm might fit sensors to a newly constructed building to capture readings on temperature, humidity and other factors in order to measure the performance of the structure over a number of years. Other benefits of big data in construction include the following:

1. Company performance evaluation.

As more data becomes available, your firm can more accurately gauge its performance and efficiency over time.

2. Tracking equipment.

Construction is unique in that companies spread their assets across multiple job sites. Knowing where heavy machinery is and how long it will take to move it to another job site is made easier through the use of big data.

3. Accurate simulations.

The greater the backlog of data, the more accurately your firm will be able to predict project limitations and other risks.