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PIARC Prize "Road Design and Construction" - Opportunities and Challenges with Automation in Road Construction and Condition Monitoring in England

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Manual handling of operations and data collection, mounting paperwork, and lengthy processes on approval systems are commonly found in construction projects. These can lead to substantial inefficiency which damage productivity and profit. The construction industry has realised the need to make the whole process leaner, safer, more efficient and cost effective, and thus is seeking to embrace the spirit of Industry 4.0. This revolution in the construction industry has involved a considerable shift from analogue to digital transactions (i.e. digitization) and improved real-time connectivity. This new revolution can radically improve productivity levels, quality and safety of the industry and help minimise impacts on the environment. A new concept called "Construction 4.0" has subsequently been introduced.