As the construction industry prepares to usher in a new year, it’s crucial for project managers to look forward to gain a better understanding of the challenges, opportunities, and changes on the horizon. Many of the momentous events of 2020 and 2021 will have reverberating effects throughout the next year, but there are plenty of exciting developments too. Let’s take a look at 5 construction trends construction businesses should keep an eye out for in 2022.
Green building practices
Sustainable and eco-friendly construction is going to remain a focus throughout 2022. In fact, one of the less-obvious ways the federal infrastructure plan will impact the construction industry is through increased spending on green-specific projects. Some of the primary drivers of this focal point include the increased value of green construction, the demand for emission reduction in commercial and residential settings, and the technological advancement of environmentally friendly construction materials. If your team isn’t up to speed with the latest developments in green construction, that’s a great area of focus for the next year.
High-tech developments
Each year brings with it greater digitization as the construction industry seeks to become more productive, safe, efficient, and cost-effective. Project managers who are still hesitant to digitize are falling behind an evolving field. Here are some technology trends to keep an eye out for in 2022:
- Using drones to inspect buildings, survey land, and make measurements.
- Wearing sensors to track and examine employee safety.
- Self-operating construction equipment.
- Project management software for budgeting, scheduling, and organizing.
- Capable robots performing menial tasks.
- Embracing AI and VR for building designs.
Rising material costs
The combination of economic-wide inflation and supply-chain disruption is foreshadowing higher material costs in 2022. Unfortunately, the government-level decisions that influence both factors are far out of reach for the average project manager and construction business. A great strategy for the following year and beyond is to line up all of your projects as early as possible. That way, you’ll know exactly what materials you need throughout the year with plenty of time to get orders in motion. If you’re behind on projects, learn how to land bids more effectively to fill out your dockets.
Industry-wide growth
One of the most exciting trends expected in 2022 is booming growth across the entire industry. Construction spending is on track to reach 2.7% in 2022 which would eclipse industry funding for the previous year and even outperform 2019 which was a major period of growth for the sector. The rising demand in the private sector is being bolstered by the massive Infrastructure and Jobs Act passed in Q4 of 2021 which will see a flood of federal spending pour into the construction industry to the tune of millions. That’s music to the ears of project managers as more spending means more opportunities to land valuable projects.
High demand for labor
The flourishing demand-side of the construction industry is further constricting an already limited workforce. It’s a tale as old as time for experienced project managers: the work is there, but the talent you need is nowhere to be found. The labor situation is expected to sing a similar tune throughout 2022 – ironically exacerbated by improved project funding. According to Deloitte, available construction gigs have grown by 50% since 2014 while the number of skilled workers has lagged behind at just 14% growth. Overcoming labor shortages will prove to be a huge hurdle for construction businesses in 2022.
A new year brings with it new obstacles for project managers. Making sure you have the right talent to tackle these upcoming challenges is crucial for long-term success. If you’re struggling to fill your construction positions, the staffing experts at Madden Craftsmen can help. For decades, we’ve helped construction businesses in the northwest find the best construction talent to handle their projects successfully. Contact us today to learn more about what we offer. Let’s build something together.
