Data Mismanagement Leads to Productivity Stalls

In the construction industry, where time and money are precious commodities, the struggle to efficiently manage data can result in significant losses. This data management crisis has affected various industries across the board, while simultaneously eroding both productivity and profitability. 

In a 2023 survey of decision-makers in project management, business operations, and digital transformation roles, Quickbase found staggering results that paint a bleak picture of data mismanagement. According to responses, 50% of workers waste over 10 hours per week chasing information from various sources while slugging through administrative tasks. This situation leaves workers with limited time to dedicate to meaningful tasks, with a surprising 58% spending fewer than 20 hours per week on projects that are pivotal for achieving significant results.

Despite the technological advances at our disposal, this influx of data lacking proper management and organizational processes has led to a trend of declining productivity. In fact,  the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports it as the most substantial decline in productivity since 1974, highlighting the urgency of addressing this issue

A core issue contributing to these issues is an overreliance on numerous systems.

This complexity makes finding information a daunting challenge. More than 53% of respondents in Quickbase’s study reported spending over 10 hours weekly chasing information, with 22% dedicating more than half of their forty-hour workweek to this time-consuming task. The use of multiple systems also hinders collaboration, leaving 65% feeling unable to share project information efficiently.

This data chaos frequently leads to “gray work,” where teams resort to makeshift solutions to overcome roadblocks, further exacerbating the lack of cohesion between systems. An alarming 41% of respondents admit to resorting to these workarounds, customizing software tools to meet their immediate needs.

Predictably, this data management crisis manifests in real-world problems. Across various industries, a staggering 64% of projects experience delays, while a concerning 54% suffer from miscommunication issues. While these challenges undoubtably cost firms a great deal, these issues go beyond financial setbacks. They jeopardize jobsite security, leading to construction errors, and, in the worst-case scenario, can even result in employee injuries or fatalities. 

Data Management in Construction

In today’s data-driven world, it’s imperative for construction industry leaders to adopt best practices, regaining control of their data. Not only does effective data management save time and resources, it ensures efficient and cohesive communication across organizations, preventing mishaps in safety and security on the field. 

With the plethora of solutions out there, it can be difficult to choose what would work best for your practice. To help you get started, here are our tips on data management in construction:

Tips for Effective Data Management

Centralized Data Repository: Create a centralized digital repository where all project-related data, documents, and communication can be stored and accessed easily. Cloud-based solutions are ideal for this purpose.

Data Categorization: Develop a consistent system for categorizing and labeling data. Ensure that everyone on your team follows this system to maintain uniformity and simplify searches.

Regular Data Backups: Implement a robust backup system to prevent data loss. Regularly back up all project data to avoid any potential disasters.

Data Access Controls: Establish permissions-based access controls to ensure that only authorized personnel can view or edit sensitive data. This helps maintain data security.

Integration Solutions: Invest in software that seamlessly integrates with other systems, reducing the need to switch between disparate programs and streamlines data management.

Data Training: Provide training to your team members on effective data management practices. Equip them with the knowledge and skills needed to handle data efficiently.

Solutions: Navigating the Data Maze

Effective data management begins with choosing and adopting software that seamlessly integrates with the other programs you need in your firm’s day-to-day. This integration ensures data can be managed and shared across organizations without the clunkiness of switching between non-cooperative systems. 

As you adopt these solutions, it’s also imperative to be mindful of data security and permissions, especially in larger organizations when handling sensitive project details. Choose programs with robust data usage permissions and permissions-based access controls, and take time to review data policies with your internal team to ensure they align with your goals. Systems with Single Sign-on (SSO) capabilities also make access control easy for everyone on the team.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) Plays a Pivotal Role in Construction Data

In 2023, AI is an essential part of various workflows, simplifying tasks like predictive writing, email sorting, and photo labeling. By harnessing the power of AI and investing in data management systems, project managers can overcome data management challenges, enhance decision-making, and ultimately improve project outcomes. 

As we mentioned in a previous blog, the construction industry is historically behind when it comes to adopting new technology due to financial and time constraints, labor shortages, and inadequate awareness, among other factors. To combat this, industry leaders in construction are constantly striving to develop and adopt solutions for more efficient and more secure business practices.

TrueLook’s Solutions for Data Management

At TrueLook, our priority is elevating construction practices for seamless communication and reliable jobsite security. We connect our construction cameras with leading software solutions like Procore and Autodesk, allowing contractors to monitor and manage projects on a single platform. This synergy streamlines processes, ensuring builders and project managers harness advanced technology without expertise gaps.

TrueLook goes beyond seamless integration. Our construction cameras don’t just capture images; they capture insights. Every image becomes a data point, contributing to a holistic view of your projects. With TrueLook, you don’t merely observe progress; you have the power to analyze, predict, and optimize. 

Imagine having the ability to detect bottlenecks before they impact timelines or foresee potential issues that could affect safety. We offer features like Intelligent Security, which combines 24/7 HD recording, AI-powered motion detection, and real-time notifications to ensure your sites are covered while your data remains uncluttered.

TrueLook provides contractors and project managers with tools that not only enhance security, but also simplify data management, streamline communication, support data-driven decision-making, and significantly boost overall project efficiency. With a versatile range of cameras, including solar-powered options and even drone services, we empower builders to refine their practices and meet specific project needs effectively.

Stay Ahead of the Data Curve with TrueLook

In a world where time is money and data is power, TrueLook provides a solution for builders seeking to streamline their operations, enhance security, and regain control of their valuable information. With the right tools, technology, and data organization strategies, the construction industry can thrive in an increasingly data-driven landscape. 

If you’re ready to elevate your construction practice and unlock the true potential of your data, consider a TrueLook Construction Camera and our robust platform of features. Contact our team for a free demo and experience the TrueLook data advantage today!