Challenges and Opportunities of Digitalization In Construction Logistics

Abstract

In the construction industry, logistics is underestimated compared to other economic sectors, which means that many logistics processes are suboptimal. In view of the fact that logistics processes take 33 % of the working time of artisans on construction sites, there is an urgent need for action [1]. According to the Lean Logistics Guidelines, productivity increases up to 32 % are possible through optimization measures [1]. An essential requirement for optimized logistics processes is digitalization. The construction industry is one of the least digitized industries and is barely explored, because the necessary database is missing [2,3,4]. The aim of the study is to show the opportunities that the digitalization of construction logistics offers and the challenges that need to be overcome. Therefore, existing data sets from construction logistics companies are analyzed, and on-site surveys are conducted [5]. Currently, only construction logistics companies have information on delivery to and removal from construction sites. Due to the lack of digitalization, isolated digital solutions have emerged to manage construction logistics. The usability and quality of the data depend on the logistics company. The resulting logistics data is of poor quality. Furthermore, the uniqueness of construction projects makes data analysis difficult [6]. One challenge is to combine these isolated digital solutions into a data standard. This will enable construction logistics to be integrated into standardized digital interfaces such as building information modeling (BIM). Changes in logistics processes are required for the broad use of a data standard. Major challenges pose the large number of stakeholders and the changing locations of construction sites. In addition, a data standard enables investigations into construction logistics. In this way, optimization measures can be developed and proven. These should focus on sustainable logistics processes in order to reduce noise and pollutant emissions.