Back

Why Use Simulation in Construction?

For an industry often accused of being reluctant to adopt new technologies, construction uses a significant amount of simulation-based solutions.

These include jobsite modeling, CAD modeling, augmented reality, and simulation training. But why? Why use simulation in construction and what benefits does it bring?

Simulation-based tools help construction companies:

These benefits aren’t small, either. According to 25-year-veteran heavy equipment operator and training expert Gary James: “Any large company that is not using this technology will soon be behind the times.”

Here’s a closer look at why simulation technology is becoming more and more popular in construction.

Types of Simulation Technology Used in Construction

“Simulation” is a broad term that can apply to many different technologies used by construction companies. Here are some of the most common:

CAD modeling: 3D modeling that provides a detailed representation of a building’s design. This technology allows stakeholders to visualize and build simulated complex designs in three dimensions, facilitating better understanding and communication.

Building information modeling (BIM): In addition to 3D renderings of the design, BIM offers an even more detailed representation of a building by including other information, such as cost estimates, scheduling information, data on sustainability, and information related to the building’s future maintenance.

Jobsite modeling: Typically used during the construction phase, jobsite modeling allows companies to simulate and plan activities, logistics, and workflows on the site. Jobsite modeling can integrate data from various sources, including CAD models, topographical surveys, and real-time data from the construction site.

Augmented Reality (AR): Overlays digital information onto the physical world so that information from the simulation can be quickly used and applied. On a construction site, this allows an operator to see the 3-D model of the project while creating it. Machines will display this augmented 3-D picture on the front window of the machine the operator is driving, which can be especially useful when grading, for example.

Simulation training: Training tools that allow operators to quickly reach proficiency, practice dangerous maneuvers, and prepare for certification exams in a safe environment.

Each of the above technologies benefit companies in different ways. Jobsite modeling, for example, helps companies better coordinate the movement of materials and equipment. And with simulation training, companies can use downtime for operator training and upskilling.

Why Are Companies Using Simulation Technology?

While each type of simulation technology will address common challenges in different ways, they all help address key issues facing the industry.

Addressing the Construction Labor Shortage with Simulation

According to a recent survey by the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC), a stunning “94% of contractors are finding it difficult to fill open positions” and “nearly one-in-three contractors (28%) reported having at least 11 unfilled craft positions.” In fact, the problem is so severe that 54% of contractors are experiencing project delays as a result.

More than shipping delays and the rising cost of materials, the labor shortage is affecting contractors’ ability to build projects and get the job done. Fortunately, simulation provides an answer to this problem.

According to Gary James, the answer arrived at a critical time. “Simulation technology was the first answer to the operator crisis,” he said. Jobsite modeling and augmented reality make it easier for inexperienced operators to hold a grade and be productive, while simulation training allows companies to train new recruits fast.

“Simulation is a great way to get 10 years of experience in a very short span,” continued James. “In the real world, a typical operator training cycle will last 5 to 8 years to master multiple machines. In the simulation world, I am able to achieve this in a matter of weeks or months.”

Electrical Training Alliance using CM labs Advantage Simulator
With a simulator, operators can practice maneuvers over and over again, allowing them to gain a lot of experience quickly

Simulation can also help companies retain talent as well. “Without simulation, it’s nearly impossible to train a new operator without it costing you hundreds of thousands of lost dollars on the jobsite or during production,” said James, “There is also a very high turnover rate or quit rate due to the pressure of making money. That pressure goes completely away when you’re sitting in a room alone on a simulator.”

Improving Operator Safety in Construction

Simulation helps improve worksite safety in a number of ways. Jobsite modeling, for example, fosters proactive hazard identification, while simulators push safety training beyond traditional limits.

“Using simulation,” James explained, “I am able to push the limits of the operator to the tipping point or dangerous points while they learn valuable lessons. In the real world, we would avoid these tipping points and dangerous situations at all cost, giving them zero experience.”

Simulation Technology Improves Productivity

Simulation helps to improve productivity in a number of important ways. CAD and jobsite modeling help reduce rework and streamline processes. Augmented reality helps operators complete quality work quickly. And with simulation training, operators can improve their cycle times to boost productivity across the board.

Reduce Emissions

When operators can work more efficiently, they’re able to do more with less fuel. Being able to train operators without burning a drop of fuel is also, naturally, good for reducing fuel consumption. While it might not be the first reason for companies to look into simulation technology, it’s an additional benefit that can help meet climate targets and reduce operating costs.

Reduce Costs

All of the benefits listed above work together to reduce costs significantly. By using simulation to train its operators, for example, Conewago Enterprises was able to reduce its onsite crane training time from 6 months to 7 weeks, and in turn reduce its training costs by over 60%, from $40,000 to $15,000. That’s on top of the cost savings it experienced from reducing its cycle times—in some cases by over 37%.

Greg Smith, Project Manager for Conewago, noted that the benefits of simulation training have a significant impact on efficiency for the organization.

“When you look at ways to track productivity gains on excavator cycle time, you can get some conceptual numbers based on a perfect world scenario,” Smith said. “You should see approximately $13,000 worth of savings on a 30,000 cubic yard project—all the way up to $40,000 for a 100,000 cubic yard project. And that’s by shaving just 30 seconds off of cycle time. We were in a position to triple those numbers thanks to the simulator.”

Want to learn more about the ROI of simulation training? Take a look at our ebook Measuring the ROI of Simulation-Based Training.

E-Book

Measuring the ROI of Simulation-Based Training