While it may be too early to gauge whether President Cyril Ramaphosa’s promise to transform South Africa into a construction site is becoming a reality, the industry continues to face several challenges that threaten its success.

RIB Software Vice President, Peter Damhuis, says some of these include supply chain issues, the ongoing challenges related to electricity supply, poor access to funding, safety concerns and labour shortages.

“Despite high unemployment rates in South Africa, labour shortages exist due to a lack of skilled workers. And, while the country is currently experiencing a reduction in load-shedding, our ageing power infrastructure and lack of access to the grid mean the country continues to experience power interruptions and a lack of continuous supply.”

The composition of the industry has also changed in recent years, with mega projects being broken down into smaller packages, allowing smaller contractors to participate. This has resulted in a decline of large construction companies and the emergence of smaller players.

“While the smaller parcels of work allow for more players to benefit from large construction projects, it increases the complexity of the projects, as they are now characterised by an increased number of moving parts,” notes Damhuis.

Digital adoption streamlines processes

He says one way to manage these complexities is to use digital solutions that enhance the efficiency and sustainability of projects. “The human brain is the ultimate digital platform. With so many players on one project needing to access information, you have to think of ways for all stakeholders to operate as though they have one brain.

“Data alone – in the form of unstructured ones and zeros – is not valuable until it is organised into meaningful information that can be used to address inefficiencies, cost overruns and labour shortages. Effective decision-making requires timely, organised information rather than raw data dumps.”

Using advanced project management tools can streamline scheduling, improve communication between all parties involved, reduce delays, and streamline efficiencies.

Digital tools can ensure enhanced project tracking, predict potential issues, help reduce cost overruns and promote better resource management. Building Information Modeling (BIM) provides detailed 3D models that help in accurate planning, design and construction, thereby reducing errors and rework. In addition, tools such as wearable technology and site monitoring can improve safety protocols and help reduce accidents.

He cites the examples of the highly successful Burj Khalifa in the UAE, which employed sophisticated project management and design software to coordinate complex construction activities and ensure timely completion, as well as the Netcare Christiaan Barnard Memorial Hospital in South Africa, which used RIB’s digital tool, Candy, for project management and coordination, leading to efficient construction and high-quality outcomes.

“Another success story is that of an engineering and contracting client in Dubai: during the 2008 Global financial crises, our digital systems allowed the company to survive and grow while others floundered. The company's ability to plan, manage resources and build trust with suppliers helped it navigate financial challenges and successfully complete major projects such as the Dubai Marina Mall,” he adds.

Damhuis says digital tools also become essential as smaller industry players start to grow and their operations become more complex. “Initially, a business owner can probably manage operations independently, but as the company expands, control can be lost if processes and systems are not updated. Scalability and the ability to manage growth are critical challenges that digital transformation can help.”

Greater efficiency equals improved sustainability

As the world adopts more sustainable practices, there is increased pressure on construction companies to follow suit and reduce their environmental impact. “Efficiency directly correlates with sustainability; as organisations become more efficient, they also become more sustainable.

“Here, digital tools can be used to optimise resource use, reduce waste and support various other sustainable construction practices, for example, sustainable design tools support eco-friendly building designs and materials for a reduced environmental footprint; supply chain management tools optimise procurement and logistics with the aim of minimising waste and reducing carbon emissions; and energy management systems help monitor and manage energy consumption on site to improve the sustainability of construction projects.”

Collaboration is key for digital transformation

Several factors hinder the uptake of digital technology in South Africa, including high initial costs, the lack of a skilled workforce that is adept at using digital tools, resistance to change and preference for traditional methods, regulatory challenges, data security concerns, and digital infrastructure limitations.

Damhuis says, while top-tier construction companies are already using digital platforms, there is still a belief among smaller players that tools such as Excel are sufficient. “Digital infrastructure challenges also play a role and, while reduced load-shedding and 5G development are improving infrastructure, challenges such as communication breakdowns still occur in remote areas.”

He notes that skills development is the foundation for growth in construction and other industries. “Developing skills ensures stability and sustainability for the country.

People are crucial in the success of projects, and having skilled individuals on projects is as important as having advanced technology or infrastructure.

“Essentially, we need greater collaboration of all stakeholders for digital transformation to become a reality. This must be underpinned by industry incentives or subsidies, an emphasis on public-private partnerships, the rooting out of corruption to create a more stable environment and, once again, a focus on training and education.

“We also need to establish industry-wide standards and best practices to facilitate the adoption of digital tools, as well as create collaborative platforms for sharing knowledge, resources and experiences. And, we need to demonstrate success: case studies that demonstrate the benefits of digital transformation will encourage broader adoption,” he concludes.