On a regular basis, we highlight content posted on other blogs that we feel would benefit our readers. This week's blog highlights include:
Job Order Contracting Performance Study
Job order contracting (JOC) is a delivery method for large owners to award one or more contractors indefinite-delivery, indefinite-quantity contracts for multiple projects over a period of years. The Gordian Group Blog reports on a just-released study of JOC use at eight public universities to analyze the performance and value of the method. Conducted by Arizona State University's Del E. Webb School of Construction, the study found JOC to be far superior to design-bid-build and provided better results than design-build and CM-at-risk as well. Read the full post and access the Gordian's full study summary here.
Augmented Reality Proving Its Value for Contractors
At the MIT Technology Review site, Elizabeth Woyke reports that augmented reality may be a significant tool in bringing automation to construction. Woyke relates how the experience of pioneering contractor Gilbane Building Company's deployment of the Microsoft HoloLens, a self-contained, holographic computer that fits in a wearable goggle, proves the use of such tools. Gilbane has already derived value by finding dimension errors in framing prior to fabrication. AECOM and Gensler are also experimenting with the device. Check out the full story here. And learn more about HoloLens from the Microsoft site.
Wearables on the Jobsite to Bolster Safety, Productivity and Data-Driven Decisions
This excellent article by Marla McIntyre at the Construction Executive website takes a look at Smartglasses, Safety Vests and Badges, Helmets and Hardhats and other wearable technology that may transform activities on the jobsite. McIntyre describes the various technologies and how they can act to increase safety and improve productivity on the jobsite. The article covers HoloLens and several other augmented reality applications that are being tested in the field. Click here for the full article.
