PlanGrid shares seven predictions for UK construction in 2019

Technology will be critical for firms adapting to new safety standards, rising owner demands and talent shortages

The seven predictions the industry may encounter in 2019 are:

1. Continuing Brexit uncertainty prompts risk-aversion and lowers quality: The fast-moving political landscape will encourage many construction businesses to delay investments and protect their margins, but firms able to focus instead on productivity improvements and enhancing quality will set themselves up for success beyond Brexit.
2. Power shifts to the owners, with demands for an active role in the construction process and control during handovers: Clients will increasingly dictate how they want their built assets returned to them and demand comprehensive, accurate handover data. Using digital platforms to share updates throughout projects will help to create collaborative relationships with clients and set construction businesses apart.
3. The decline of the Tier 1 contractor – and the birth of the integrator: New delivery models will evolve following the collapse of Carillion; ‘the integrator’ will emerge in place of the Tier 1 contractor and the drive to share real-time digital information with clients throughout projects.
4. Fear drives safety reform in the wake of the Hackitt Review: As reform to safety legislation is outlined by the government, the emergence of personal liability for meeting new standards will drive behavioural change throughout the industry.
5. Firms are forced to focus on staff engagement amidst talent challenges: Shortage of talent is the biggest challenge in the year ahead according to 38% of professionals, making staff engagement and retention a critical differentiator for firms in 2019.
6. Sustainability remains high on the agenda: Sustainable building materials and techniques will become priorities for many public and private sector clients, creating advantages for construction firms offering greener services.
7. Technology is critical for construction firms navigating months of change: Digital tools will not only improve day-to-day operations at firms and support new safety requirements, they will also enable the collection of data insights to inform business strategies.

“Developments in 2018 underlined that we’re entering a new period of change in the construction industry,” said Rob Elvidge, EMEA managing director at PlanGrid. “From growing client demands to whole new safety standards, it’s clear that 2019 will represent challenges – and opportunities – for construction businesses.”

“Technology will be a key enabler for businesses looking to stay ahead,” continued Elvidge. “Digital platforms can enable firms to increase their productivity, support new safety standards, enhance relationships with clients and even attract and retain key talent. Despite the challenges of the shifting environment, forward-looking firms can meet the changes of the year ahead and set themselves up for long-term success.”