Database

Software/ Mobile App

Function

Benefits of Productivity Improvement

Challenges

Author (s)/ date of publication,

Emerald Insight

(598)

Search question:

software and mobile apps to improve productivity in the construction industry

PlanGrid

Procore

Autodesk BIM 360

Fieldwire

Bluebeam Revu

PlanGrid: A mobile construction management app that allows users to access project plans, documents, and photos in real time, improving collaboration and reducing errors.

Procore: A construction project management software that provides tools for project scheduling, budgeting, and communication, enhancing productivity and efficiency.

Autodesk BIM 360: A cloud-based construction management platform that enables teams to collaborate on building information modelling (BIM) projects, streamlining workflows and reducing rework.

Fieldwire: A construction management app that allows teams to collaborate on tasks, track progress, and manage documents, improving communication and productivity.

Bluebeam Revu: A PDF markup and collaboration tool that enables construction professionals to review and annotate project documents, enhancing communication and productivity.

Real-time access to project information and documents, facilitating collaboration and reducing delays.

Streamlined communication and task management, improving coordination among team members and reducing errors.

It enhanced document management and version control, ensuring the latest information is readily available to all stakeholders.

Resistance to change and lack of technological adoption among construction professionals. Integration challenges with existing software systems and workflows. Data security and privacy concerns when using cloud-based platforms (Yankah et al.,2022).

Yankah et al. (2022)

https://doi.org/10.1108/FEBE-03-2022-0010

3D printing

Building Information Modelling (BIM)

Digital Twins

CAD CAM

Augmented Reality (AR)

Virtual Reality (VR) Building Information Modelling (BIM)

Cloud-based communication and collaboration solution: Enables real-time communication and collaboration among team members, improving efficiency and productivity.

Mobile Apps: Provide on-the-go access to project information for better coordination and decision-making.

3D printing: Facilitates rapid prototyping and construction of complex structures, reducing time and costs.

Building Information Modelling (BIM): Enhances project visualisation, coordination, and clash detection, leading to improved efficiency and reduced errors.

Digital Twins: Enables real-time monitoring and analysis of construction projects, optimising performance and maintenance.

CAD CAM: Streamlines design and manufacturing processes, improving accuracy and efficiency.

Augmented Reality (AR): Enhances visualisation and communication, enabling better understanding and decision-making.

Virtual Reality (VR): Provides immersive experiences for design review and training, improving collaboration and productivity.

Enables real-time communication and collaboration among team members, improving efficiency and productivity.

Provide on-the-go access to project information, allowing for better coordination and decision-making.

Facilitates rapid prototyping and construction of complex structures, reducing time and costs.

Enhances project visualisation, coordination, and clash detection, improving efficiency and reducing errors.

Enables real-time monitoring and analysis of construction projects, optimising performance and maintenance.

Streamlines design and manufacturing processes, improving accuracy and efficiency.

Enhances visualisation and communication, enabling better understanding and decision-making.

Provides immersive experiences for design review and training, improving collaboration and productivity.

Adoption and integration of new technologies into existing workflows and systems. Training and upskilling of the workforce to effectively utilise the new technologies. Cost of implementing and maintaining the technologies. Data security and privacy concerns in cloud-based solutions. Compatibility and interoperability issues between different software and platforms (Mahajan, 2022).

(Mahajan, 2022)

https://doi.org/10.35940/ijitee.g9236.10111122

Excavator Augmented Reality (EAR)

The EAR app allows users to navigate a 360-degree tracked hydraulic excavator, providing operators with a realistic and immersive experience.

The app aims to improve productivity in excavation and earthmoving processes by utilising AR technology to enhance operator efficiency and accuracy.

The challenges associated with using AR-based mobile apps for excavation and earthmoving processes were visualising the excavator activities, and the requirements of improved features were the highest agreed strengths and weaknesses of the EAR (Abdeen et al.,2022).

Abdeen et al. (2022)

https://doi.org/10.1108/CI-07-2022-0168

Microsoft Project and Primavera

BIM-U

BIM-Phase

CEsARe

AR enhances the scheduling aspect of construction projects by showing an as-planned vs. an as-built form, allowing visualisation of progress.

BIM-AR integration improves task efficiency by enhancing the process of data recovery during construction.

AR enhances the scheduling aspect of construction projects by showing an as-planned vs. an as-built form, allowing visualisation of progress. This improves task efficiency and productivity.

BIM-AR integration improves task efficiency by enhancing the process of data recovery during construction.

The provided sources do not mention the challenges related to productivity improvement in software and mobile apps (Zaher et al.,2018).

Zaher et al. (2018)

https://doi.org/10.1108/CI-02-2017-0013

Autodesk BIM 360, PlanGrid, Procore, and Fieldwire.

The functions of these MBT software and apps include accessing and sharing project information, viewing and marking drawings, tracking project progress, managing documents and RFIs, and communicating with team members.

The benefits of using MBT software and apps include improved productivity, enhanced communication and collaboration, reduced errors and rework, increased efficiency in project management, and better decision-making.

However, there are also challenges associated with the implementation of MBT, such as the need for training and change management, data security concerns, interoperability issues, and resistance to adopting new technologies (Jowett et al., 2023)

Jowett et al. (2023)

https://doi.org/10.1108/CI-07-2022-0160

BIM and lean

BIM tools and mobile apps facilitate collaborative working environments, advanced project monitoring and control systems, and information management, improving infrastructure project productivity.

The coordination and communication of all design and engineering disciplines on a virtual BIM platform, enabled by BIM tools, optimise design and engineering decisions and accelerate on-site progress, resulting in productivity improvement.

BIM tools and mobile apps facilitate collaborative working environments, advanced project monitoring and control systems, and information management, improving infrastructure project productivity.

The provided sources do not mention the challenges related to BIM implementation in infrastructure projects (Koseoglu & Nurtan-Gunes, 2018).

Koseoglu and Nurtan-Gunes (2018)

https://doi.org/10.1108/ECAM-08-2017-0188

BIM 360

Procore

Fieldwire

PlanGrid

Autodesk Construction Cloud

BIM 360: A cloud-based construction management software that enables real-time collaboration, document management, and issue tracking, leading to improved productivity.

Procore: A construction project management software that streamlines communication, document management, and task tracking, enhancing productivity on construction sites.

Fieldwire: A mobile app that allows construction teams to collaborate, manage tasks, and access project information in real time, improving productivity and efficiency.

PlanGrid: A construction productivity software that enables teams to access and share project plans, documents, and photos, reducing rework and improving productivity.

Autodesk Construction Cloud: A suite of construction management software that includes BIM 360, PlanGrid, and other tools, providing end-to-end project visibility and productivity improvement.

Enhanced collaboration and communication among construction teams, leading to better coordination and productivity.

Real-time access to project information and data enables faster decision-making and problem-solving, resulting in improved productivity.

Adoption and integration of new technologies into existing construction processes and workflows. Training and upskilling construction workers to use the software and mobile apps effectively. The cost and investment are required to implement and maintain the software and mobile apps (Zoleykani et al., 2023).

Zoleykani et al. (2023)

https://doi.org/10.1108/CI-05-2022-0131

Mobile automated BIM-FM systems

BIM Perspective Definition (BPD)

Mobile automated BIM-FM systems were used to solve problems related to transferring data and improving task efficiency in the FM process.

BIM Perspective Definition (BPD) was used to increase system reusability.

Indoor navigation was improved using BIM-FM methods.

Various projects were conducted to improve FM-BIM methods, including integrating required BIM-FM information for owners’ needs and managing electrical, plumbing, and mechanical systems.

The use of multi-scale BIM models was explored for managing electrical, plumbing, and mechanical systems.

V Mobile automated BIM-FM systems improved task efficiency in the FM process.

BIM Perspective Definition (BPD) increased reusability in systems.

Improved indoor navigation facilitated efficient facility management.

Integrating BIM-FM information for owners’ needs enhanced the management of electrical, plumbing, and mechanical systems.

Using multi-scale BIM models improved the management of electrical, plumbing, and mechanical systems.

The article does not explicitly mention the challenges associated with the mentioned software and mobile apps (Carreira et al.,2018).

Carreira et al. (2018)

https://doi.org/10.1108/ECAM-09-2016-0198

Science Direct

(145)

Prototype voice-based Intelligent Virtual Agent (VIVA)

It is designed to improve worker productivity in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry.

VIVA provides workers with ad-hoc semantic knowledge and task-context-related information when needed, aiming to support their onsite performance.

VIVA has limitations, such as the lack of additional sensors to perceive the user’s context or task status (Linares-Garcia et al., 2022).

Linares-Garcia et al. (2022)

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.autcon.2022.104554

Augmented reality technology,

Microsoft’s

HoloLens,

Apple’s Vision

Pro glasses

Augmented reality technology presents a significant opportunity for the construction industry and is predicted to experience significant growth momentum shortly.

Augmented reality in construction can assist in assembly guidance, building design assessment, and building facility management.

Its current status as one of the least developed technology products in the industry and the need to identify and resolve the main problems related to the lack of improvement in labour productivity within the sector (Alkan & Başağa, 2023).

Alkan and Başağa (2023)

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.autcon.2023.105107

Mobile- Internet

M-Internet combines mobile communication with Internet technology, providing an effective and efficient way to exchange information in construction supply chains. It consists of mobile terminals, access networks, and application services

M-Internet enables real-time information sharing and interaction between various participants in construction supply chains. It addresses the problems of visibility, traceability, and communication automation in construction supply chains.

Conventional Internet technologies in construction supply chain management (CSCM) have limitations in information exchange that are tedious, time-consuming, and error-prone. Security is a concern when applying the M-Internet in CSCM (Shi et al., 2016).

Shi et al. (2016)

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.autcon.2016.08.020

AR-QR Code

for accessing design and construction information on construction sites.

Improved productivity, as workers can easily access and understand design and construction information without extensive searching and interpretation.

The article does not explicitly mention the challenges associated with the mentioned software and mobile apps (Sabzevar et al., 2023).

Sabzevar et al. (2023)

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.autcon.2023.105017

Blockchain-enabled Cyber-physical Site Management System (BCSMS)

BCSMS enhances construction site information sharing in a cross-collaborative prefabricated construction environment.

BCSMS improves construction quality, efficiency, and site safety by sharing information among stakeholders in a trusted and transparent manner

The article does not explicitly mention the challenges associated with the mentioned software and mobile apps (Xiao et al., 2023).

Xiao et al. (2023)

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aei.2023.102102

Augmented reality

The app facilitates self-checking during assembly by providing craft workers with quick visual feedback.

The augmented reality application tailored for pipe fitting and spool inspection can increase productivity and reduce rework through more transparent communication of design information and visual feedback in real time.

The application can help control costs and schedules of heavy industrial construction projects by improving productivity in pipe spool assembly.

Incorporating automation into the piping industry is challenging due to the nature of piping work and its dependence on skilled craft workers. Strict tolerances required on construction projects and shortages of skilled labour make productivity improvement challenging (Kwiatek et al., 2019).

Kwiatek et al. (2019)

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.autcon.2019.102935

IEEE Xplore

PlanGrid,

Job Flex,

Procore,

SmartBidNet

PlanGrid: Facilitates project collaboration and management.

JobFlex: Assists with estimating and tendering.

Procore: Helps with project management.

SmartBidNet: Aids in bid management.

Mobile computing offers construction workers a quick and simple platform to communicate relevant on-site information to other stakeholders situated in different locations, improving productivity

The cost of software and licensing is a significant constraint to the uptake of mobile apps in the construction industry (Liu et al., 2016).

Liu et al. (2016)

https://doi.org/10.1109/APWC-on-CSE.2016.042

Google Scholar

(1860).

Ustream

Prontoforms

Toodledo

Punch List

Crane-Operator

Hand Signals

OSHA Heat and

Safety Tool

Dropbox

Good Reader

Evernote

eWeather

OSHA Heat

Index

Productivity apps help with information management, such as preparing documents, managing tasks, and editing documents

The top two challenges in implementing apps in the construction industry are lack of training and difficulty viewing documents on mobile devices.

Lack of training is a significant problem as companies do not provide the necessary training to use the apps effectively. Difficulty viewing information on the mobile device’s screen is another challenge, so companies should consider screen size when deciding which mobile devices to use on the construction site (Azhar et al., 2015)

Azhar et al. (2015)

https://doi.org/10.22260/ISARC2015/0008

Building Information Modeling (BIM) software

IoT-enabled BIM platform

Activity monitoring software

Risk management software

Resource and waste optimisation software

Building Information Modeling (BIM) software: BIM platforms enable real-time visibility and traceability in prefabricated construction, improving productivity.

IoT-enabled BIM platform: Integrating IoT with BIM allows energy-saving on demand and intelligent building energy monitoring, further enhancing productivity.

Activity monitoring software: AI applications in construction include activity monitoring, which can help track and optimise worker productivity.

Risk management software: AI techniques, such as machine learning, can be applied to risk management in construction, improving productivity by identifying and mitigating potential risks.

Resource and waste optimisation software: AI can optimise resource allocation and minimise waste in construction projects, increasing productivity.

Increased profitability, efficiency, safety, and security in the construction industry

Limited digitisation in the construction industry makes adopting AI and other advanced technologies difficult. Cyber threats, such as malware and phishing, pose challenges to increased access to the internet and interconnected systems in construction (Abioye et al., 2021).

Abioye et al. (2021)

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jobe.2021.103299

Internet of Things (IoT)

Building Information Modeling (BIM)

Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR)

Cloud-assisted AR/VR

Edge and Fog Computing

IoT-based automation systems can be implemented in the construction industry to improve productivity and efficiency. These systems enable smart monitoring and control of various processes in construction sites, leading to better resource management and reduced downtime

software allows for creating and managing digital representations of construction projects. It facilitates collaboration among different stakeholders, improves coordination, reduces errors and rework, and enhances productivity.

AR and VR technologies can be used in the construction industry for visualisation, simulation, and training. They enable workers to understand complex tasks better, improve accuracy, and enhance productivity

Cloud-based platforms can support the deployment and management of AR and VR applications in the construction industry. They provide scalability, accessibility, and data storage capabilities, contributing to improved productivity.

Enhanced resource management

Improved coordination and collaboration

Reduced errors and rework

Better visualisation and simulation

Increased accuracy and efficiency

Automation of repetitive tasks

Integration of different technologies and systems

Cost of implementation and training

Data security and privacy concerns

Resistance to change and adoption

Availability of skilled workforce (Srivastava et al., 2022)

Srivastava et al. (2022)

https://doi.org/10.1155/2022/6716987

EDM (Electronic Document Management)

Mobile application-based DMS (Document Management System)

for document management, which helps save project cost and time, improve quality, and reduce retrieval time of documents.

administration work, drawing design, project scheduling, and project management.

improves the efficiency of project managers.

save time and money on construction projects

Mobile apps and software enhance efficiency and connectivity, making it possible for construction workers to be increasingly successful.

Using mobile apps in the construction industry can lead to modernisation, digitalisation, and improved project management.

There is a need to explore more solutions and manage construction projects remotely using mobile apps.

The use of software for document tracking and management is relatively low (29%), indicating a potential challenge in this area (Parikh et al., 2021)

Parikh et al. (2021).

Building Information Modelling (BIM)

Augmented Reality (AR)

Maximize productivity: Integrating the Internet of Things (IoT) and BIM maximises productivity in the construction industry.

Enhance information flow: IoT and BIM optimise the flow during a project lifecycle.

Optimize energy efficiency: IoT and BIM help optimise energy efficiency in construction projects.

Improve security and safety: IoT and BIM improve security and safety in construction projects.

Planning, managing, and monitoring of resources: IoT and BIM aid in the planning, managing, and monitoring of resources in construction projects.

Maximise productivity: Integrating the Internet of Things (IoT) and BIM maximises productivity in the construction industry.

Enhance information flow: IoT and BIM optimise the flow during a project lifecycle.

Optimise energy efficiency: IoT and BIM help optimise energy efficiency in construction projects.

Improve security and safety: IoT and BIM improve security and safety in construction projects.

Planning, managing, and monitoring of resources: IoT and BIM aid in the planning, managing, and monitoring of resources in construction projects.

Security: As Industry 4.0 involves data and systems in a virtual environment, security issues must be addressed to prevent negative consequences (Maskuriy et al., 2019).

Maskuriy et al. (2019)

https://doi.org/10.3390/app9142819

Autodesk Revit

ArchiCAD

Vico

Bentley

Tekla

ArchiCAD: BIM software for architects, available for both Windows and Mac OS. It allows the creation of BIM models on mobile devices and offers a cloud-integrated model-sharing service called BIMx. It also provides a free trial and is free for students.

Vico: Offers location-based scheduling for on-site work management and is compatible with popular BIM tools and scheduling software. It provides tutorials and training videos on its website.

Bentley: Has mobile applications for on-site access to online databases and provides powerful work-sharing capabilities. It allows distributed team members to use their own applications and file formats. Owners and users can publish precise, data-rich engineering content in various mediums.

Tekla: Offers an application for on-site communication with the offsite office and specialised configurations for different construction management needs. It develops software solutions to enhance building potential

Mobile apps and software enable real-time communication, access to relevant information, and the ability to modify plans and schedules, leading to improved productivity on construction sites

Challenges include the need for integration into traditional construction management procedures and the requirement for new skill sets in using progressive mobile BIM tools (Maghiar et al., 2015).

(Maghiar et al., 2015)

Autodesk Revit

Unity 3D

Vuforia

EnTiTi Creator

Autodesk Navisworks Manage

Miracle Primavera

AR and VR technologies are used for construction project scheduling, progress tracking, worker training, safety management, time and cost management, quality and defects management, and visualisation.

AR technologies help automate quality and defect management systems, reduce project failures, and improve communication between parties involved in a project.

VR technologies allow workers and consultants to experience a project before it is built, helping in decision-making and minimising cost and delays

The complexity of on-site data retrieval and the need for lightweight mobile devices for construction-related information projection (Ahmed et al., 2017).

Ahmed et al. (2017).

Green Building Information Modelling

Embedding sustainability strategies through software and mobile apps can improve the competitive advantage of UAE construction organisations from a social, environmental, and economic point of view.

Demonstrating the benefits of technology adoption can help the construction industry embrace change and understand the advantages of Industry 4.0 technologies.

The low uptake of green BIM and mobile applications for sustainability in UAE construction organisations poses a challenge to implementing sustainability initiatives. The lack of skills for successfully deploying sustainability strategies is a significant challenge for the UAE construction sector (Al_Neyadi, 2018).

Al_Neyadi (2018)

Building Information Modelling (BIM)

Internet of Things (IoT)

Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR)

Big Data Analytics

Cloud-based solutions enable real-time collaboration, data integration, and remote access to project information, facilitating efficient communication and decision-making.

Using cloud computing in conjunction with emerging technologies like BIM, IoT, VR/AR, and big data analytics can improve construction industry productivity.

This can result in reduced project delays, improved resource utilisation, and enhanced project performance.

Despite the potential benefits, there are challenges to the broader adoption of cloud computing in the construction industry. These include data security and privacy concerns, interoperability issues between different software and platforms, limited awareness and understanding of cloud computing among industry professionals, and the need for robust IT infrastructure and reliable internet connectivity on construction sites. Overcoming these challenges requires addressing security concerns, promoting industry-wide standards and guidelines, providing training and education on cloud computing, and investing in infrastructure development (Bello et al., 2021).

Bello et al. (2021)

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.autcon.2020.103441

3DPrinterOS” software,

“3DPrinterOS” software is a cloud-based operating system for 3D printers. It allows users to remotely manage and monitor their 3D printers, schedule print jobs, and collaborate with others in real time. It also provides analytics and reporting features for productivity tracking and optimisation.

Using software and mobile apps for productivity improvement in 3D printing can increase efficiency, reduce downtime, and improve collaboration among users.

However, there may be challenges in terms of compatibility with different 3D printers, connectivity issues, and the need for training and familiarisation with the software or app (Tay et al., 2017)

https://doi.org/10.1080/17452759.2017.1326724

Tay et al. (2017)

Primavera P6, Microsoft Project,

Asta Powerproject.

These tools offer various functions such as automated schedule delivery, resource planning, security risk warnings, and 4D visualisation

The benefits of using these tools include better working practices and improved results in terms of productivity

However, the challenges associated with implementing these tools include the need for training and familiarisation, integration with existing systems, and potential resistance to change from industry stakeholders (Desgagné-Lebeuf et al., 2020)

https://doi.org/10.1080/15623599.2020.1819583

Desgagné-Lebeuf et al. (2020)

Google Maps and OpenStreetMap:

Carto and Mapbox

Google Maps and OpenStreetMap: These platforms enable public users to upload and download their data and perform simple analyses such as distance measurement.

Carto and Mapbox: These commercial companies allow public users to generate online interactive maps and perform spatial analysis using their data and GIS methods.

Google Maps and OpenStreetMap: These platforms allow users to upload and download data, perform distance measurements, and analyse spatial information. This can improve productivity by allowing users analyse purposes to access and analyse geospatial data for various purposes quickly.

Carto and Mapbox: These platforms enable users to create interactive maps and spatial analysis using their data. This can enhance productivity by empowering users to visualise and analyse spatial information in a customised and user-friendly manner.

Software Issues: Integrating multiple software in a project can be challenging due to differences in software compatibility. This can hinder seamless integration and coordination between different software systems. To address this challenge, implementing IFC and CityGML models is suggested to integrate various functions and avoid details losses (Song et al., 2017).

https://doi.org/10.3390/ijgi6120397

Song et al. (2017)

Trello

Evernote

Trello is a project management tool that helps users organise tasks and collaborate with team members. It provides a visual interface with boards, lists, and cards to track progress and assign tasks efficiently. Trello can be used for personal productivity as well as team collaboration. It offers features like due dates, checklists, attachments, and notifications to enhance productivity.

Evernote: Evernote is a note-taking app that allows users to capture and organise ideas, documents, and web clippings. It offers features like tags, notebooks, and search functionality to find and access information quickly. Evernote also supports collaboration, allowing users to share and work on notes together. It helps improve productivity by providing a centralised platform for storing and retrieving information.

Streamlined task management and organisation.

Enhanced collaboration and communication.

Centralised storage and easy access to information.

Improved time management and prioritisation.

Increased efficiency and productivity.

Learning curve and adoption challenges.

Overwhelming number of features and options.

Integration and compatibility issues with other tools. Security and privacy concerns (Naser, 2022).

https://doi.org/10.1201/9780367823467

Naser (2022)

OpenAI’s GPT (Generative Pre-trained Transformer)

Google’s PaLM (Pattern- and Language Modelling)

Meta’s Llama

These advanced large language models (LLM) can generate human-like content based on learning from existing content, which can benefit various construction industry tasks.

They can assist in generating construction-related content, such as project proposals, reports, and documentation, thereby improving productivity and efficiency in the industry.

These advanced large language models (LLM) can generate human-like content based on learning from existing content, which can benefit various construction industry tasks.

They can assist in generating construction-related content, such as project proposals, reports, and documentation, thereby improving productivity and efficiency in the industry.

Implementing Generative AI (GenAI) in the construction sector poses certain challenges that must be addressed. However, the provided sources do not mention the specific challenges (Ghimire et al., 2023).

https://doi.org/10.48550/arXiv.2310.04427

Ghimire et al. (2023)

Building Information Modelling (BIM):

BIM is a multifaceted computer software data model that applies augmented reality and virtual reality to solve contemporary issues in construction. It can improve project performance in the construction sector.

BIM enables the creation of a virtual representation of a construction project, allowing stakeholders to visualise and analyse the project before it is built. This helps identify and resolve identity and potential issues early on, reducing rework and improving overall project efficiency.

The costs associated with augmented reality (AR) have been a challenge, with only large enterprises being able to afford the technology’s substantial up-front investments. However, introducing open-source mobile toolkits has reduced costs, making small-to-medium more accessible to small- to medium-sized contractors. Additionally, the lack of functional information technology (IT) departments in some construction companies, particularly small-to-medium enterprises in developing countries, has hindered the widespread adoption of these technologies (Adebowale & Agumba, 2022).

https://doi.org/10.1108/SASBE-06-2022-0128

Adebowale and Agumba (2022)