The value of a good digital workflow in the construction process

To work smarter, more efficiently, faster, more accurately and more sustainably, you need the right tools. "And the right mindset," believes Duncan McCormick, business development manager at Topcon. "Digital working is on the rise and so is the number of tools, both in hardware and software. But the most important thing is applying these tools in the workflow.

Digitization on the construction site

Topcon, with its technology and knowledge of processes, provides geodetic solutions that can help improve the workflow of the construction process. "It's up to us to show the value and benefits. Not only to the manager, but especially to those who will work with it on a daily basis, such as the truck driver. That's why we include them in this process as well." 

Looking at today's digitization, we see that much is cloud-based. The question that is then almost immediately asked is, "What about data security and data consistency?" "An understandable question," according to McCormick, "for an industry that is still quite conservative and where people are looking for assurances in terms of safety and security with respect to data processing."

Data security & data consistency

Topcon's cloud-based solutions allow customers to choose where data is stored. "By offering a very high level of data security, we remove a barrier here," he said. McCormick continues: "In addition, a high degree of data reliability is an important consideration for the customer, this data is stored at European server locations. Both input and output must be consistent throughout the process from planning, controlling to execution. By explaining this process to the customer and showing them how the data is stored and processed, customers are more open to incorporating new technologies and continuing the digitization drive."

Applications for GWW, construction & infra and agriculture

McCormick lists some Topcon applications for transportation planning optimization, proper soil balancing, site data management and an app. All aim to make land planning smarter, more cost-effective, more aware and more productive. "For example, there is the software module MAGNET Project, a location-based tool that allows you to manage and administer a (digital) construction project in an extremely user-friendly way and saves enormous costs on civil work. Regardless of the size of the project, all collected data can be tracked from the start in a clear total registration. Because the modules can be linked, it can be used for various applications." 

Linking and integrating

For interconnecting machines, Topcon developed SiteLink3D (version 2). "A cloudbased software solution based on data consistency, data security and interconnectivity with other Topcon products. A reassurance for the customer that the ingested data needed to properly execute a project within time and budget is secure, reliable, accurate and consistent." Finally, McCormick mentions the Haultruck app. "When using the app, you can track and manage automated mass transport throughout the process. That's how you create cost reduction, less downtime and work to increase efficiency." McCormick concludes, "No matter how much knowledge and experience you have gained, there is still so much to learn! It's important to be open to and embrace future solutions because the main focus of these solutions is to improve workflows as well as contribute to a lower footprint."