Last week the the JBKnowledge team launched a new podcast series focused on the latest construction technology trends and updates. The show is called the “ConTechTrio” and can be found on the iTunes, Spreaker and Soundcloud platforms. The show is hosted by James Benham (CEO of JBKnowledge) and features co-host Rob McKinney (Technology Consultant for JBKnowledge) and Josh Bone (Business Development Manager and BIM Consultant for JBKnowledge). Below are a few highlights from our first episode, but we hope you’ll take some time to listen for yourself below! Or download free at one of the links at the end of this post.
“Welcome everyone to the inaugural #ConTechTrio podcast! Powered by @JBKnowledge the makers of SmartBidNet, SmartInsight, and SmartReality.I am your host James Benham @jamesmbenham and I am joined by Rob Mckinney the @ConAppGuru and Josh Bone @Bim2TheBone.
Over the next few weeks I will be reviewing new apps, hardware and software for the construction industry that can improve work flows and discuss a few apps that may help you out.
The idea behind this podcast show is for us to discuss
-Our favorite new apps
-Our thoughts on hardware
-Our thoughts on the future of technology and construction
What James Benham is excited about in 2016:
Augmented Reality & Virtual Reality Platforms
-This past January James attended the CES 2016 show.
-The highlights were seeing new drones, new augmented reality headsets, and 3d printers.
-I especially like the DAQRI Smart Helmet (new partnership with Intel) and the Osterhout Design Group ODG R-7 Smartglasses.
Drones
-There were over twenty different drone companies at the CES 2016 show.
-New onboard collision avoidance technology (keeps from running into things).
-New integrated platforms like Skycatch and Kespry.
3D Printers
-There were over thirty 3D printing companies at CES
-There are new machines that can 3D print carbon fiber and even candy!
Mobile Apps
What Rob McKinney is excited about in 2016:
Hardware
-Can the MS Surface Pro 4 replace the traditional laptop and tablet set up in the office and field?
-Will the iPad Pro make an impact the construction industry. Working through a few dock issues. Trying out the same app on two platforms.
-Samsung Note 5: Moving past the “Google Mentality” phase transition.
-Windows Smartphone: Can run legacy desktop applications and hook up to monitors.
-The migration from IOS environment over to the MS Windows 10 environment.
Software
-How can we unlock the power of the key features of Bluebeam for project sites. I want to see how the platform it performs on both MS Surface Pro and iPad Pro. Can workflows transition from the office to the field?
Apps
-How many construction platforms will start to offer apps for the Windows 10 platform to run on a MS Surface Pro 4? JBKnowledge will be releasing a SmartBidNet app for Windows.To track “percent complete” such as SmartPM. One of the big request we receive from clients is how to track their field progress against the planned schedule. They are very frustrated
-How about BIM 360 DOCS for converging 2D plan and 3D model viewing into one platform. It is currently a FREE platform with the potential to bring BIM into the field inside one app with the plans.
Tech Roadshow
-Taking the format around the country to as many local trade association chapters as possible.
-The challenge for all new software is finding that easy button that allows any users to work with a solution.
What Josh Bone is excited about in 2016
BIM
-We are pushing a lot of data around for models on projects. We are looking at is how to control the model from the field.
-BIM adoption will increase and the level that we are deploying BIM solutions will improve.
-BIM in more hands and deployed to the field on tablets. Tools like Glue, BIM Track, and other cloud based solutions are making it easier for more people to access the models and data associated with it.
The Industry
-Growth in the Construction Industry and what this growth will lead to in the way of how technology is going to be adopted and deployed in 2016. In 2015 was a good year, we saw a 10% increase in non-residential construction projects which was better than predicted. The predicted growth is 8-9% in 2016.While our industry is growing we have been experiencing a labor shortage since 2013. A recent survey from the AGC reports 71% of those surveyed are looking to add headcount this year. Companies are going to have to leverage technology to address our present situation.
-Subs growing interest in prefabrication. What can be done in the shop?
Software
-Hearing a lot of buzz around SysQue for BIM from the trade level. SysQue can go beyond clash detection and move towards fabrication. Let’s try change the I in BIM to now stand for Intelligent (#BuildableIntelligentModel). Can we move beyond “BIM” toward “VDC” or Virtual Design Construction.
-Hearing a lot about a new platform BIM Track. Platform simplifies the clash detection process through the cloud to improve the communication aspect.
The Podcast:
If you would like to listen to the podcast and follow the #ConTechTrio check out on the following platforms:
Listen to the #ConTechTrio Podcast on iTunes
Listen to the #ConTechTrio Podcast on Spreaker
Listen to the #ConTechTrio Podcast on SoundCloud
Listen to the #ConTechTrio Podcast on YouTube
Stay tuned for future episodes from the #ConTechTrio about new apps, hardware and workflow descriptions in the following weeks. And be sure to share your thoughts with us by using the #ConTechTrio hashtag on Twitter!
