Yellow construction on a desk next to a laptop with drawings 1200x900
Yellow construction on a desk next to a laptop with drawings 1200x900

Top Construction Industry Trends & Priorities to Watch Out in 2024

In the construction industry, the path to success is fraught with challenges, from managing tight budgets to navigating supply chain disruptions. As the year progresses, addressing these pain points with innovative solutions is essential. This article gathers all essential trends and priorities, offering you an information-rich resource to help you ensure your projects stay on track, on schedule and provide a strong ROI.

What's Top Of Mind for Decision-Makers at Different Types of Construction Companies?

General Contractors

2024 has brought forth a strong focus on technology and sustainability for general contractors. With an increased reliance on Building Information Modeling (BIM) and augmented reality, contractors are finding new ways to enhance project efficiency. However, the labor shortage remains a significant challenge, requiring innovative solutions in workforce development and retention strategies. To explore how to leverage these technologies effectively and tackle labor challenges, here are the priorities for general contractors in 2024.

Civil & Heavy Highway Contractors

Civil and heavy highway contractors are prioritizing sustainable practices and the adoption of emerging technologies to stay competitive. The implementation of autonomous equipment and applying recommendations outlined in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act for new projects have become top priorities. Safety and financial management are also top of mind, reflecting a need to balance growth with operational excellence. For a deeper look into how these priorities can transform your construction practices, here are the priorities for civil and heavy highway contractors for 2024.

Electrical Contractors

The push towards sustainability and digital transformation is reshaping the electrical contracting landscape. Integrating smart building technologies and renewable energy sources are not just trends but necessities in today's market. On top of that, addressing the skilled labor gap through dedicated workforce development programs also play a vital role. Learn more about these transformative priorities for electrical contractors and how they can apply them to ensure success in a competitive market.

Mechanical Contractors

For mechanical contractors, 2024 is about enhancing efficiency through technology and sustainable practices. The adoption of energy-efficient systems and a focus on recycling and reducing waste have been critical to success. Moreover, enforcing safety protocols and improving productivity through the use of advanced software has been proven to improve operational performance.

Technology is Taking Construction to the Next Level!

The integration of cutting-edge technologies across all verticals of construction is undeniable. AI-enabled capabilities, ERP software, and cloud-based platforms have become instrumental to effective construction management, ultimately enhancing visibility, improving forecasting, and streamlining operations. The shift towards these technologies is not just about keeping up with the times — it's about setting a new standard for efficiency and success in the construction industry.

Top AI Breakthroughs in Construction

  • Generative Design: This optimizes project planning and plays a role in improving efficiency.

  • Predictive Analytics: The use of data to make projections and potentially mitigate project risks.

  • Smart Equipment: This can be applied to carry out predictive maintenance and reduce downtime.

  • Autonomous Vehicles: These have been proven to help enhance site inspections and material handling with AI.

  • Quality Control: The use of AI can be used for real-time defect detection and quality assurance.

For more details on AI's impact on the construction industry, read the top AI breakthroughs in construction.

Construction ERP Software: Designed to Streamline Operations

Construction ERP software revolutionizes how construction firms operate by consolidating processes by the use of a single database platform. Adopting robust construction-specific ERP solutions helps streamline operations, enhance efficiency, and reduce risks.

Top 10 Construction ERP Software Features

  • Project Management

  • Financials Management

  • Document Management

  • Field Management

  • Reporting & Analytics

  • Inventory Management

  • Risk Management

  • Subcontractor Management

  • Mobile Accessibility

  • Scalable Features

Benefits of Using a Construction ERP Software

  • Increased efficiency and productivity

  • Improved communication and collaboration

  • Increased automation (through the reduced number of errors and minimized amount of rework)

  • Real-time project data for better decision-making

  • Increased profitability

Top 2024 Construction Industry Trends 

From sustainable construction to the growing use of prefabricated materials, the construction landscape in 2024 has been replete with the introduction of technological advancements and a strong emphasis on sustainability. Here’s an overview of the top trends shaping the construction industry.

Finding Success in 2024

While the construction industry has been facing its share of challenges in 2024, there has also been tremendous opportunities for growth and innovation. By focusing on these top priorities and trends, industry professionals can address pain points, optimize operations, and achieve better project outcomes. As such, the path forward is clear: stay on top of new trends, adopt new technologies, and be prepared to lead your projects to success.