Share One Personal Experience Related To Modern Tech ✓ Solved

Share one personal experience related to any one modern technology

Share one personal experience (job or observation or from your readings) related to any one modern technology used to improve construction process. Is the technology widely used in the industry? If not, what do you think is the main obstacle in its wider application?

Do you agree that green buildings can produce savings for property owners and tenants alike? Please discuss by providing at least one example.

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In the modern construction industry, various technologies have emerged to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve sustainability. Among these technologies, Building Information Modeling (BIM) and applications like Procore are notable for their transformative effects on project management and collaboration in construction.

Personal Experience with Modern Technology: BIM and Procore

During my internship at an architectural firm, I had the opportunity to work with BIM technology extensively. BIM is a digital representation of the physical and functional characteristics of a facility. It provides a shared knowledge resource for information about a facility, forming a reliable basis for decisions during its lifecycle, from inception onward (Eastman et al., 2011). One of my projects involved designing a complex commercial structure, where we utilized BIM to visualize and analyze different aspects of the building's construction feasibility, including water drainage systems and the integration of different materials.

The benefits of BIM were evident as it helped in detecting clashes and inconsistencies in the design before construction began, thereby significantly reducing delays and preventing costly modifications during construction. Most construction companies today have incorporated BIM into their workflows, as it supports an integrated approach to project management, where architects, engineers, and contractors collaborate more effectively.

Moreover, alongside BIM, I also experienced the use of management software such as Procore. This application streamlines various processes by providing a centralized platform for communication, documentation, and project tracking. It allows all stakeholders, including contractors, subcontractors, and clients, to access up-to-date information, which is vital for maintaining transparency and accountability (Procore Technologies, 2021).

Despite the growing adoption of these technologies, challenges remain that hinder their broader implementation. One significant obstacle is the resistance to change within the industry. Many firms are accustomed to traditional methods and may view new technologies as unnecessary or overly complicated. This mindset often stems from concerns about the time and financial investment required to adopt new systems (Zhang et al., 2017).

Green Buildings and Financial Savings

Alongside modern construction technologies, the transition towards green buildings has garnered much attention. Green buildings are designed to reduce their environmental impact and create healthier living and working environments, and they often come with substantial financial savings for property owners and tenants alike.

From my personal experience in the multifamily housing sector, green buildings can significantly lower utility expenses for both owners and tenants. For instance, buildings designed with energy-efficient systems, such as high-quality insulation, efficient heating and cooling systems, and renewable energy sources like solar panels, can reduce overall energy consumption. According to the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), green buildings can lead to an estimated 20% decrease in maintenance and operational costs compared to conventional buildings (USGBC, n.d.).

One practical example is the usage of green roofs in urban multifamily buildings. Green roofs not only reduce the heat island effect in cities but also provide insulation, which lowers heating and cooling costs. A study by the National Research Council indicates that buildings with green roofs can achieve a return on investment through reduced energy costs, lower stormwater management expenses, and improved property values (NRC, 2014).

Another aspect regarding green buildings is their impact on tenant health and productivity. Buildings that prioritize natural lighting and indoor air quality can foster a more positive living or working environment, potentially leading to better physical and mental health outcomes (Garrido et al., 2017). Consequently, this can result in higher tenant retention rates and lower vacancy rates, further benefiting property owners.

In conclusion, integrating modern technologies such as BIM and Procore in the construction process enhances project efficiency and collaboration. Meanwhile, green buildings not only promise environmental sustainability but also offer substantial financial savings for property owners and tenants through various innovative designs and technologies. As the industry continues to evolve, overcoming resistance to these advancements will be crucial in fostering a more sustainable and efficient future for construction.

References

  • Eastman, C., Teicholz, P., Sacks, R., & Liston, K. (2011). BIM Handbook: A Guide to Building Information Modeling for Owners, Managers, Designers, Engineers, and Contractors. Wiley.
  • Garrido, E., & Tubert, A. (2017). "The impact of green buildings on occupant health and productivity." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 14(9), 1021.
  • NRC. (2014). "Green roofs - Benefits and costs." National Research Council. Retrieved from [URL]
  • Procore Technologies. (2021). "The benefits of using Procore." Retrieved from [URL]
  • USGBC. (n.d.). "Benefits of green building." Retrieved from [URL]
  • Zhang, Y., Wu, Y., & Hu, J. (2017). "Understanding the barriers to BIM adoption in the construction industry: A case study." Automation in Construction, 83, 287-295.
  • Wilson, M. (2019). "Recycled coal ash makes better concrete." Retrieved from [URL]
  • Consumer Energy. (2019). "Consumers Energy Delivers $2.8 Million Incentive to General Motors for Energy Efficiency Upgrades in Flint." Retrieved from [URL]
  • Allen, J. (2019). "General Motors Flint Assembly, Flint Engine honored by EPA for energy savings at plants." Retrieved from [URL]
  • USGBC. (n.d.). "LEED Certification." Retrieved from [URL]

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