Paradigm Shift that has impacted the construction industry

Many paradigms have contributed to our environment and society throughout time and will continue to do so. This paper focuses on a paradigm specifically in a field that is close to me, the construction industry. Contractors have constantly been forced to adjust to new structures of the business as new ideas and technology are presented. Technology has altered the process of constructability in multiple aspect of the business specifically the process of concrete paving by introducing contractors to GPS and Laser machinery.

This technology allows for a more accurate foundation and infrastructure by eliminating excessive labor and certain materials as well as significantly minimizing human error “Unknown. (2014). How new technolgoy has transformed the construction, My.whirlwindstell.com/blog/bid/374309”. Eliminating the possibilty for error is the dominat advantage of using this machinery in the process of pouring concrete; also known as stringless paving. “Nasvik, J. (2015, January 1)”. Technology is changing the way roads are built, concreteconstruction.net/paving/pavement”. Controlling the pavement thickness and accuracy is done by analyzing and controlling the equipment through a software program, which can save the data, allowing the contractor to later report to regulating institutions, such as the Department of Transportation or the Public Works Association. “Sawyer, T. (2004, June 21)”. The Impact of electronic technology on the construction industry, http://enr.construction.com/features/technologyEconst”.

Utilizing this technology has provided contractors and workers the ability to more easily move throughout the job site. Which provides a safer environment while operating on the site. (Nasvik, J. 2015). Allowing less staff decreases the chances for accident and injury. Laborers are also less exposed to controlling heavy machinery hands on “Tromp, R. (2015, March 18). GPS and Laser Equipment Machinery for Concrete Paving [Personal interview]”.

Although stringless paving can be costly, the machinery reduces the time to completion; material costs and eliminates the chances of modification once job is complete. “Tromp, R. (2015, March 18)”. GPS and Laser Equipment Machinery for Concrete Paving [Personal interview]”. GPS and laser machinery can cost up to $20,000.00 with equipment and software but allowing for owners to eliminate high number of labor costs and development delays. The construction industry has always experienced the demands of the client for a “better, faster, and cheaper” product, which is now provided by using this technology. The ability to do this provides a positive relationship between contractors and clients “(Tromp, S. 2015)”.

In conclusion the dynamics of the industry have improved, however some might argue whether these impacts are a positive element for the contractor. Many owners believe GPS and laser machinery operates by an unpredictable process of gathering data “(Sawyer, T. 2004)”. Although society is becoming more familiar with technology, most construction workers