Construction industry

Drones are already in use in construction, allowing operators to survey, map and deliver accurate measurements. Project managers and virtual design coordinators can save valuable time and eliminate risk through the use of drone maps and 3D models on job sites. This may include keeping construction projects on track with shareable maps, comparing building inventory management models, inspecting job sites for safety, or measuring stockpiles. Ultimately, drones and software can improve communications and make construction a more efficient and safer industry to work in.

Drones can be used to substitute existing labour intensive processes in construction such as surveying and inspections. In practice, builders can use drones to collect real-time data about projects and understand on-site conditions to track progress as well as helping to identify problems before project timelines are delayed. Complementary software enables builders to use site mapping data to plan, communicate and keep projects on schedule. Further to these potential operating efficiencies, drones also offer occupational health and safety benefits in the form of safer work environments.

Currently drones offer the ability to gather data and visual images easily, however, there are opportunities to generate further value when these inputs are turned into useful outputs for operators. Outputs such as detailed measurements for visualisation software and more generally, data analytics integration, reflect where drones could generate further value for the construction sector.

The ability for drones to quickly render 3D maps of terrain with high resolution cameras and data processors capable of surveying the landscape at one millimetre per pixel could be essential in maximising their potential in the future.

Cost savings for the construction industry under the low uptake scenario are estimated at $130 million in 2040, increasing to around $310 million under the high uptake scenario. Additional non-market benefits also include occupational health and safety benefits through improved site safety (Deloitte Access Economics, 2020, p. 45).