Most construction sites feature good broadband internet connections. This is already so widespread that we can consider it as being standard practice. This article takes a look into the benefits provided by wireless access to the constructions sector.
Just like any other type of business, constructions companies are increasingly shifting toward moving their operations into the digital environment. Their day-to-day communications and the coordination of teams, workers, and suppliers rely on connectivity.
However, unlike office-based firms, constructions companies can’t rely on IT managers and solid network infrastructure to cater to their communication needs right off the bat. Setting up a wired internet connection would require trench digging and cable laying. Furthermore, as the site expands, new trenches and newlines may become necessary, in order to keep up with the growing communication needs.
Modern constructions companies that claim to be efficient and tech-savvy, waiting for the cables to be laid isn’t something acceptable.
Is “WiFi” The Same Thing As “Wireless?”
Wireless and WiFi aren’t the same things. WiFi routers, as you probably know already, enable mobile devices and laptops users on-site to connect to the internet. However, these routers themselves can only provide internet access if they are connected to wired lines. that’s how internet companies deliver broadband to their end-users. Wireless leased lines, on the contrary, use microwave and radio technologies to deliver 3G, 4G, and 5G to mobile devices.
Why Is Connectivity So Important For Construction Sites?
As construction firms, suppliers and contractors are relying more and more on digital devices to communicate and to handle different tasks, reliable internet and WiFi is an absolute must. Here are a few examples of things that make connectivity essential to modern construction sites. As a side point, you might want to see Towcester Racecourse and have a look at the work they had done to their WiFi services.
Cloud-Based Services Access: Construction companies use CAD software to design their projects and to share these designs with clients and suppliers. In the past, they used to store these plans on their computers, so they needed to take their laptops to the site to discuss the details of their plans and designs with other teams. Thanks to cloud-based CAD software tools, anyone can access the platform from any machine, provided that they have a reliable internet connection. This makes the handling of construction projects much more flexible, as sharing new designs and ideas occurs almost instantly. As you can’t have cloud-based services without the internet, it comes without saying that modern construction sites do need good wireless access.
On-Site Communications: Smartphones have changed the way constructions workers communicate with their clients, with business partners, and with office-based staff. They can use voice calls, instant messages, SMS, email messages, and file-sharing apps to ask for and to offer feedback at different stages of their projects. Nevertheless, using mobile data can quickly become expensive, taking into consideration the sheer volume of files and messages large construction projects involve. A reliable WiFi connection is a way more cost-effective solution. Voice calls on WiFi are free of charge, so workers can make as many calls as they need without any influence on the bill for these services.
Security: Instead of hiring security firms or on-site personnel to guard the site 24/7, construction firms can use IP CCTV streaming to monitor their sites. This can significantly reduce monitoring and security costs. Furthermore, WiFi-operated access systems are able to stream images from gate cameras and automatically lock or unlock doors and gates by remote. Instead of having someone to guard the gate and to allow people in and out, construction firms can rely on automation to control access, while also saving a lot of money in the process. In addition, camera systems and smartphones don’t need leave days and they don’t get sick. This is another way to keep costs at bay.