Many hear Blockchain Technology and think Bitcoin and feelings of mistrust and scepticism then emerge. Well it is true that the two are related (especially with its origins in the famous 2008 whitepaper by Satoshi Nakamoto) bit coin and any other crypto –currency is just one of the applications of Blockchain Technology. Blockchain Technology at its core is a de-centralised secure ecosystem of data. Information recorded on this database can be traced to its origin and data once recorded can only be added, not changed or removed. This data distribution system eliminates monopoly of information by a centralised authority as is the case with cloud databases often rife with security and privacy concerns. Apart from the Finance Industry and its related digital currency, the Construction Industry can also implement Blockchain Technology and lean into the various benefits of this digital logbook.
BIM involves multiple parties interacting with centralised information to deliver a project. This information includes a common 3D model, DWG and PDF files containing technical specifications, budgetary data, bidding documents, project contracts, team emails, directive memos, inspection notes and many other sensitive files related to the construction project. With so much information centrally available for access by several parties, how can stakeholders be assured that private data is not released to competitors especially in Integrated Project Delivery systems? How can parties ensure digitised documents are not unethically accessed and illegally altered? How do you know who did what? How would a party be held liable for a mistake made seeing as many people have access to the centralised files? With BCT, there is more control over private data and better handling of sensitive data uploaded on this online database. BCT cab trace the origins of files, including a time-stamp, team members who made what contributions to the 3D model, or who updated a certain document. It provides a very efficient way to track document changes with its exemplary transparency. Original files cannot be removed or changed in Blockchain. This aspect of BCT will have a very huge impact on the ability to hold parties liable in case a dispute arises.
In the Construction phase, Blockchain Technology can be leveraged when using autonomous construction techniques. Data collected by Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGV) and Unmanned Aerial (UAV) is sensitive and should be secured. By incorporating BCT in the Artificial Intelligence systems, team members can be assured that they are interacting with accurate information and integrity, is maintained seeing as no alterations can be made on the initial files. BCT as a platform also allows incorporation of smart contracts. A smart contract is a built-in program to automate execution of actions as a result of certain preceding events (that is, the conditions of agreements). Supplies can be traced and recorded as a blockchain transaction allowing relevant team members to track construction materials whether from overseas or from a local warehouse all the way to the site. Automatic payment of the supplier is executed once delivery has been made. This way, by employing BCT you can track supplies as well as track payments with reliable records to show. This is the automated paperwork and contractual processes in construction projects.
There are several applications of BCT in infrastructure development, these are just but a handful. I’d like to hear your thoughts on how and where BCT can be implemented. Let me know in the comments.
