The tablet computer in its various shapes and sizes may at first seem like just another shiny new gadget designed for our amusement. But this technology is not simply an entertainment device! Tablet computers are proving to be very useful tools in the workplace and could soon be essential for those working in the construction industry.


So what do tablet computers have to do with the construction industry? Well, when your business means you’re constantly on the move, having ready access to all your project documents is extremely useful. Also an increasing number of tablet applications can be utilised for construction use – and that makes this technology far more significant than the latest high-tech toy!

Mobile computing in the beginning

Apple’s first tablet computer was released in 1993 and there have been versions of different tablets throughout the years. World adoption of tablet computers exploded as wireless connectivity improved and consumer confidence increased. Since the release of iPhones that made access to the internet a regular occurrence, mobile computing has become even more prevalent.


So all in all, smart phones are great but let’s face it, sometimes size does matter. It’s hard to read and write detailed documents on a tiny screen so with a ready market of millions of people hooked on the iPhone, Apple made a timely release of the iPad in April 2010. The rest is history – with over 20 million iPads sold (more than all other tablets combined) and predictions that more people will be on mobile devices than landline computers by 2015, mobile computing is definitely here to stay.

The advantages of your construction business adopting mobile technology.

Construction mobility is something you already do. You work where you need to and a desk with a computer should not tie you down. You lean on the back of your car or an unfinished wall to make a call or write down whatever it is that needs doing. So it’s obvious you’ll benefit from a mobile office and even if you’re a ‘fat-fingered construction worker’ you’ll find tablet computers easy to use!


You can write and receive emails, take pictures and instantly access the internet just by touching a screen a couple of times. Along with ease of use, tablets are less expensive than most computers and internet access can be organised with your mobile carrier without breaking the bank.


Tablet computers are durable and easily carried or stored in a backpack or brief case and the instant-on capabilities means you’re never waiting for your computer to boot up. With a few taps of the screen you can check your emails, catching up on paperwork, source materials for your next job or Google-map the quickest route between the job site and home.

 How is the construction industry using tablet computers today?

A number of construction companies are using tablets or smart phones to access their ‘location locked’ company computer information today. This is primarily achieved through a Virtual Private Network (VPN) or one of the many web based document sharing applications. That’s okay for some larger corporations however it is not common practice for smaller companies as many business systems require a server and IT professionals at hand to keep them working. Additionally internet speeds are not always reliable and touch pad tablets and smart phones often don’t have the working space to get much done.

So at the moment, the construction industry is stuck in a kind of ‘mobile computing purgatory’. On one hand you have these great mobile devices like tablets and smart phones, but on the other hand, there is no reliable way to get work done faster. Laptops and mobile internet access are expected to increase work efficiencies for mobile industries like construction, but beyond checking email or using the calculator, not many construction professionals are finding applications that provide them with real time saving benefits.

Where is it all going?

With the advent of Apple’s iStore and soon to be released Microsoft Windows 8, mega-software companies are laying out a technology platform for programmers of niche construction estimating, project management and accounting construction software. In effect, tablet applications will be the bridge to tie construction site requirements to the office, resulting in time efficiencies for project managers and reducing company administration costs.

This means in the near future, locally supported construction software will be equipped with customised tablet applications to specifically fit different construction roles. For example, Site Supervisors will have tablets with digital time cards for up-to-date employee involvement and plant usage on site by project by cost code. Variations will be managed from the site with the help of photos and approvals to reduce construction delays. Different staff members working on the same project will be able to add or amend daily field and induction reports in real time along with quick access to project plans.


The real bonus is that employee and subcontractor documentation, purchase orders and contract budgets will be used for real time job costing which will save from doubling up on work and errors transposing paper dockets.


So how can I convince my boss, employees or business partners that Construction Mobility is the future?


Most industry advancements are driven by cost reduction – so definitely start with this! Mobile devices will be powered by purpose-built applications that put real computing power at the figure tips of site foreman, project managers and superintendents. Tablet applications will be slimmed down built for touch pad devices specifically designed for your construction role.

Changes in technology in recent years have made business systems more affordable for small construction companies than you might think. The use of company specific applications can bridge technology gaps and give your company capabilities that even the ‘big boys’ in the construction industry would envy. Companies unable to make the shift to mobile technologies will find added overhead costs and reduced client services will make it difficult to compete with companies that do. The pressure to change won’t solely rely on site hardened construction workers. Office managers need to be trained on effective change management processes that involve all members of a construction team. The real challenge will be getting people on board to positively shift construction businesses processes and work flows to take advantage of mobile computing cost efficiencies.

Many studies confirm what we know through experience. Big money is being wasted on paper based systems. Studies have shown construction managers’ productivity would increase by over 30 percent whilst business operating costs could be reduced by a staggering 20 percent when mobile technology takes hold of the construction industry. That is money that can be re-invested into different areas of your business including training and technology.

Regarding the uptake of mobile technology in the construction industry the drivers of adoption will be accountability, increased productivity, eliminating communication lag and differentiation of client services. Many construction companies are double and triple handling information, which drastically increases overhead costs. Over 80 percent of construction costs happen on site so it only makes sense to streamline construction site to office processes.

One company leading construction mobility is Maxwell Systems. This US based construction software company has a clear vision to continue to grow its iPad integration. Jimmy Flynn, CEO of Maxwell Systems, said in a recent interview “Project managers now have convenient access to valuable data and documentation no matter where they are working through our ProContactorMx construction software. With timely details to make decisions on the go, they can more proactively execute projects, and optimize profits and control costs.”

The construction industry has seen constant changes through the invention of new construction tools that make even a first year apprentice look like a pro. Mobile construction technology should be looked at in the same way, it’s simply a new tool to get the job done easier and faster. The real time job costing benefits along with document and variation management means bottlenecks being felt by companies today will be reduced or eliminated all together.

How do you get construction mobile?

There are a couple things to consider before you rush out and get a tablet computer. For smaller builders or subcontractors, having a designated desktop computer at home or in the office is still a must because as great as they are, tablets can’t do it all! For larger companies a server will probably be in place, although it may need to be upgraded to do the job, and your techie team will be able to fill you in once they learn about any specifications required. You will need an ADSL II internet connection or better and a static IP address. Next, you will need a tablet computer with internet access. Finally, you’ll require purpose built construction software designed for project managers with tablet computer connectivity and a reputable software supplier able to deliver and support this type of technology.


Once the hardware and software is in place you need a clear roll out plan that compliments your business objective. Having a well-considered change management plan ensures business processes and work flows can be easily followed and understood. If the business requirements have been thoroughly and methodically communicated to staff the roll over to mobile technology will be fast, efficient and stress free and your company rapidly on its way to cost savings.

The change for construction companies moving into mobility technology won’t come easy, but keep in mind that 15 years ago the mobile phone was once considered pricey, indulgent and mostly for ‘yuppies.’ Today you wouldn’t dream of leaving home, let alone running a construction project, without your mobile phone. In the near future you’ll say the same about your tablet computer and you’ll wonder how you ever managed your business without it.

Article by Quest Business Solutions Pty Ltd – Profit Through Efficiency. For more information contact Eric Silcott on 1300 687 742 or visit www.questbiz.com.au