Construction companies swim in an overwhelming ocean of bits and bytes. To cut through the cacophony and identify what data is important, Seattle-based project management firm OAC held its first ever datathon competition earlier this summer

Improving construction data practices and finding new ways to use machine-learning and other advanced algorithms in projects has been a hot topic in the industry, but some firms are already seeing real benefits. That was the consensus of a panel of experts convened for ENR’s 2021 Top Young Professionals conference, held Feb. 24-26.

Efficiencies in design, construction and building use are being unlocked thanks to analysis and proactive changes informed by construction data. Even 3D printing for a NASA project on structures on Mars is on the table.

With urban revitalization spurring growth in residential and mixed-use facilities, the Indiana construction market is “stable and reflects national trends with growth in life sciences, health care, entertainment and infrastructure,” Philip Kenney says.