The Future of Construction Work Following a Pandemic

Construction work requires countless moving elements coming together just so to result in a successful finished project. From job site management to keep things on schedule, to measures to ensure crew member safety and communication that keeps clients informed, most construction companies have their regular practices down to a science. With the introduction of the COVID-19 pandemic, however, many companies in construction — and those outside of our industry, as well — have found themselves moving forward with slightly altered operations.

Take FUSED Industries, for instance. Although technology has always played a major role in the way we do business, it’s more important now than ever. We’re turning to technology to help us streamline backend operations and business interactions with clients — and to minimize contact through things such as physical bills. In essence, COVID-19 has led us to go as “paperless” as possible, allowing business operations to continue uninterrupted and remotely if necessary. Ours is just one such example of what companies are doing to address business during this unusual time. Read on to learn what business experts have to say about the way companies have approached COVID-19, and the lasting effects the pandemic might have.

Fewer Face-to-Face Interactions
The handshake that seals the deal before the start of a new project. The annual conventions that highlight what’s new in the world of construction. In-person client meetings to hash out project details. Forbes says such interactions — and others like them — could be a thing of the past following COVID-19. Read the full article.

A Stronger Focus on Team Member Health
While the construction industry regularly covers issues such as fall prevention and PPE during crew member meetings, those conversations are likely to expand down the road. ZDNet notes that, among other changes, many companies will double down on issues such as sterilization and cleaning. Read the full article.

More Reliance on Items Made Close to Home
With ongoing supply chain interruptions, especially relating to items coming from areas such as China, Construction Dive reports a likely shift toward procuring more materials from the United States or Mexico. As such, they say, that shift will bring more construction projects for warehouses and factories. Read the full article.

While no one knows for certain what changes lie ahead, the consensus seems to be that flexibility and a shift from the old “business as usual” will be important in the coming months and years. As always, however, the Houston construction industry — and those industries it serves — will continue to stand strong.