Exploring the Intersection of Technology and Sustainability with Prakash Senghani

The construction industry has transformed due to technology, encompassing Building Information Modelling (BIM), Artificial Intelligence (AI), 3D printing, and IoT.

These technological advancements have revolutionized project planning, design, construction, and management. Simultaneously, sustainability has gained significant importance in the industry, aiming to reduce energy consumption, waste generation, and environmental impact.

To learn more about digital transformation and construction technology, we interviewed Prakash Senghani.

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Question 1: How do you see the construction industry in the year 2023? Do you think this year will be a "digital year" for construction professionals?

I believe 2023 holds immense promise for the construction industry on many fronts. The adoption of digital technologies has been steadily increasing, and I foresee this year as a pivotal time for construction professionals to embrace the digital revolution. From Building Information Modelling (BIM) to Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT), these advancements are reshaping the way we plan, design, and execute construction projects, driving efficiency and innovation across the industry.

One of the main things that have changed of late and are coming to fruition is the amount of investment in technology for the industry as a whole. Approximately $50 billion was invested in AEC (Architecture, Engineering, and Construction) tech between 2020 to 2022, that's 85 percent higher than the previous three years, according to a report by McKinsey; this has provided a great springboard into 2023.

This also highlights the shift in mindset and perception; I strongly feel that we have had a self-defeating attitude towards innovation, tech adoption, and digitalization for many years; management consultants have perpetuated this, but in recent years, including our ability to adapt during the pandemic has changed this for good.

Question 2: The construction industry has undergone dynamic changes over the years. What do you consider the biggest challenge for this industry now?

While the construction industry has undoubtedly made significant progress, it has challenges, particularly in crucial areas requiring immediate attention. One such challenge lies in the imperative need for sustainable and environmentally-friendly practices, especially as we embark on visionary projects. Sustainability isn't just about looking at our environmental impacts; achieving a balance necessitates responsible resource management, a concerted effort to reduce our carbon footprint, and a wholehearted embrace of sustainable construction techniques that create spaces people need, are comfortable in, and adaptable to change.

Ensuring workers' health, safety, and well-being at construction sites remains paramount. For decades, the construction industry has been associated with inherent risks and hazards, making it essential to prioritize comprehensive safety measures and continuously strive for improvements in this area.

Another challenge is how we procure technology and digital services; as an industry, we have developed processes to procure traditional goods and services, which have become highly commoditized and are often driven by cost rather than value. Procuring more contemporary services like BIM, laser scanning, and AI-enabled tools upends the status quo, and existing contractual models and evaluation methods need to be fit for purpose. There needs to be a deep look at this fundamental aspect if we are to realize the full potential of the latest innovations and technologies coming our way,

However, I find solace and encouragement in witnessing the collective steps we are taking to address these challenges. The concerted efforts of industry professionals, stakeholders, and organizations drive positive change and pave the way for a better future. I am genuinely grateful to have been allowed to be an integral part of this transformative process, working to enhance the construction industry's practices and contribute to its overall betterment.

Question 3: What potential do you see in the latest construction technology trends? Are they capable of boosting the productivity of construction professionals?

Absolutely! The latest trends in construction technology are poised to revolutionize the entire spectrum of the industry, empowering professionals and driving remarkable improvements in productivity. Innovations such as prefabrication and modular construction, robotics, drones, and augmented reality (AR) have already demonstrated their tangible benefits in streamlining processes, reducing costs, and elevating safety standards.

Moreover, the advancements in data analytics, AI-driven automation, and intelligent infrastructure present unparalleled opportunities to optimize project management, enhance decision-making processes, and foster seamless collaboration. Embracing these transformative trends can boost productivity levels, drive operational efficiency, and unlock new realms of possibilities in the construction industry. Integrating these technologies is set to redefine how we plan, design, and execute projects, paving the way for a future where innovation and efficiency are paramount.

Question 4: Where do you see the construction industry in the next five years? Please share your valuable insights with our readers.

I want to see it more productive, safer, sustainable, and highly digitized. Integrating cutting-edge technologies and a stronger focus on sustainability will redefine how projects are conceptualized, designed, and executed.

We can anticipate increased adoption of AI, machine learning, and automation to enhance productivity and reduce manual labor. The industry will evolve into a more efficient, sustainable, and interconnected ecosystem driven by value and not just cost.

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Question 5: In four words or less, what's your prediction about the transforming construction industry?

Technology led disruptive revolution.

Question 6: What's your success mantra?

Be curious!

Embrace innovation, foster collaboration, and keep learning continuously.

In an ever-evolving industry like construction, it is crucial to stay ahead of the curve, adapt to new technologies, and continuously seek ways to improve processes and deliver exceptional results. One must remove or limit the fear of failure and see it as part of the process, something to learn from and assist in getting to the end goal.

By cultivating a culture of innovation, building strong and meaningful partnerships, and constantly expanding our knowledge and expertise, we can overcome challenges, drive growth, and achieve long-term success.

More Details

Prakash actively engages in entrepreneurship and angel investing, aligning himself with the transformative changes he envisions for the industry. He wholeheartedly supports startups by providing invaluable advice, sharing his expertise, and contributing capital to nurture their growth.

His unwavering passion lies in leveraging technology to drive value and address the challenges the construction industry faces. Prakash has continuously explored and implemented the latest innovations throughout his career across the project lifecycle.