Schindler, a global leader in elevator and escalator manufacturing, has introduced groundbreaking technology transforming elevator installation on construction sites. Known as Schindler R.I.S.E. (Robotic Installation System for Elevators), these autonomous robots provide a more efficient, safer, and precise method for installing elevators in high-rise buildings.
Schindler’s revolutionary robotic installation system, Schindler R.I.S.E., can execute elevator installation steps autonomously while improving working conditions. Video source: Schindler.
R.I.S.E. robots use advanced automation to drill holes, set anchors, and position guide rails with pinpoint accuracy. This automation eliminates common human errors and streamlines the traditionally labor-intensive installation process, enhancing overall quality. These robots work directly from digital building plans, allowing for seamless integration with the broader construction workflow.
The benefits of Schindler R.I.S.E. extend beyond just precision. By reducing the need for manual labor in hazardous situations, they significantly improve on-site safety. This is especially crucial in high-rise construction, where working at heights poses significant risks.
Typically, installing an elevator takes around a week per floor. While project timelines can vary, Schindler asserts that their R.I.S.E technology significantly speeds up this process, reducing installation time and resulting in faster project completions and lower costs. With a more efficient installation process, building operations can commence sooner, providing value to developers and tenants alike.
Five R.I.S.E robots are already deployed, helping build skyscrapers worldwide, including Dubai’s 340-metre Uptown Tower, Brazil’s JK Square, and Warsaw’s Varso Tower.
Incorporating R.I.S.E. technology into elevator installation is a leap forward for the construction industry. It exemplifies how robotics and automation can enhance quality, safety, and efficiency, setting new standards for building projects globally.
With a $4B business firmly entrenched in a $10T industry, Procore is one of the biggest players in the construction management software market. It offers a robust platform integrating everything from project planning to document control. But while Procore’s comprehensive feature set makes it a powerful tool, its pricing model and shady subscription practices have left many firms frustrated by unexpected costs and restrictive contract terms.
Quick look
Procore’s volume-based pricing links software fees to construction revenue, leading to high costs during strong revenue periods and creating financial unpredictability.
Annual contracts limit flexibility, placing financial strain on companies with fluctuating project pipelines and reducing Procore’s appeal for firms seeking adaptability.
Additional fees for setup, data migration, and integrations inflate costs, diminishing Procore’s value for smaller firms or those with tight budgets.
Inflexible invoicing tools require manual corrections for budget changes, often causing delays when syncing with accounting software.
Volume-based pricing: An unwelcome guest in the deal
Procore’s volume-based pricing model is designed to scale with a company’s Annual Construction Volume (ACV), tying the cost of the software to the total value of a firm’s construction projects rather than using per-user or per-project fees. Theoretically, this model would be a natural fit for large construction firms with high project volumes.
However, the combination of Procore’s estimations of a client’s future revenue paired with the fluctuating nature of construction should give stakeholders pause as to whether this model is indeed scalable. “If I land a big job with more revenue in a given year, I have to write Procore a check,” says Jacob C*, owner of a top construction firm in the U.S. “But I lose my discounts if I drop below my anticipated revenue.”
In this light, Procore’s volume-based pricing can feel punitive rather than advantageous. “A colleague recently told me, ‘If I make more money, I have to pay Procore; they’re in my deal. Why is Procore in my deal?’” says Jacob.
Contracts, renewals, and the ‘hostage mentality’
One of the most frequent criticisms of Procore’s pricing model is the requirement for annual contracts, which leaves little room for flexibility. Unlike software solutions that offer monthly subscription options, Procore ties its clients into long-term agreements. Committing to a year-long contract can feel restrictive and risky for businesses in an industry known for fluctuating workloads and seasonal construction projects.
Moreover, Procore’s points of contact are constantly changing. “I appreciate that they have massive customer service turnover, particularly in sales,” says Rob J*, a contractor from a top-tier Canadian construction company. “But that also means we’re always dealing with someone new upon renewal who has no prior experience with our business. That’s hardly a bespoke solution.”
As contractors navigate the high risks of their work, they want a contech partner—a solution that will help their business, not hinder it. “The original agreement was that costs would only go up no more than 10%. It went up more than expected… Conversations on renewals changed once they went public, and it felt like a cold sale, not the same people I had dealt with before,” recalls Jacob. “They told me I would owe them $30K, and the consultant wouldn’t get off the script about what we owed, so I had to escalate to a supervisor.”
This annual commitment can quickly become a financial burden for firms or subcontractors who don’t maintain a consistent project pipeline, and the lack of flexibility is a particularly sore point for businesses. “Procore pricing has gone up 75%, and my revenue has not,” says Jacob, claiming that Procore will “shut you off” in 30 days if a payment isn’t remitted.
“Here’s the deal—no one can switch a project management system over to a new platform in less than 30 days,” says Rob. “It’s a real ‘take-it-or-leave-it’ approach to what’s supposed to be a human-centric technology solution. It feels like a hostage negotiation if you ask me.”
“They’re a profit center, not your partner,” says Mark M*, a contractor located in the States. “As labor and material costs escalate, so does the project management software. Since they assess their fees on revenue, you wind up paying more for the same project. No other enterprise software—not Microsoft, Google, or Oracle—are privy to your revenue for the purpose of assessing your software cost.”
Beyond the subscription: Hidden costs
Beyond Procore’s subscription fees, users face additional costs, from setup and data migration to paid add-ons for integrations. These extra charges quickly add up, and the resources required to maintain Procore’s system can feel overwhelming. “Being fully customizable will cost you more,” says Jacob. “We’re charged for each add-on, and while some of these features are optional, they drive up costs if we want the platform to work fully with our other tools. For example, the add-on to have dashboards is an extra cost, which was more surprising from an executive perspective than anything. You would assume it’s part of the base system. Who pays for Procore? The ownership of the company. The people at the top.”
These extra charges can be significant and sometimes overwhelming in a volatile industry. Implementation fees, for instance, often vary depending on the complexity of the project, the number of users, and the systems already in place. For businesses transitioning from simpler software or manual processes, this can involve substantial data migration costs. Moving all existing project data into Procore’s system is not always seamless and often requires additional resources or external support. “It’s a bad business practice to add features that are underdeveloped and not user-friendly, then making construction companies bear that cost,” says Rob. “Procore is not a partner for the long haul. We’re getting stuck with huge rate increases when nothing has been changed except the sales rep.”
Integrations with other software, such as accounting platforms or document management systems, also come at a price. While Procore offers a wide range of integrations—like Sage, QuickBooks, and DocuSign—these connections don’t always function as smoothly as advertised, requiring further customization or troubleshooting, which adds both time and cost.
For businesses already dealing with tight budgets, these hidden costs diminish the platform’s overall value and make it hard to see a return on investment, especially when other software offers similar features at a fraction of the price.
Invoicing and financial tools: A rigid approach
Procore’s financial tools have also sparked frustration among users who need flexibility in their invoicing. Once uploaded, invoices and purchase orders (POs) cannot be amended, leading to time-consuming manual corrections when project costs change. This rigidity can create serious inefficiencies for construction firms that rely on agility and adaptability. Projects often evolve, requiring revisions to budgets or costs, but once the invoice is locked in Procore, users face the tedious task of correcting these issues manually. This process can delay payments and add unnecessary steps to what should be a streamlined system. “It’s not always easy to access critical information—sometimes, I just ask a power user to get the reports I need because navigating Procore’s system can be cumbersome,”says Mark.
In addition to these challenges, integration issues with accounting software like Sage compound the problem. Many users have reported discrepancies between Procore and their accounting platforms, which leads to additional manual corrections. While Procore does integrate with popular software like Sage, QuickBooks, and others, these connections don’t always function smoothly. When invoices don’t sync properly, users must spend extra time troubleshooting and reconciling errors. These inefficiencies can quickly add up, making the financial management process more complicated than it needs to be.
Market perception: A mixed bag
Procore has earned a reputation as a premium, all-in-one platform in the construction management software space. For large construction firms, Procore’s comprehensive feature set, including project management, financial tracking, and real-time collaboration tools, positions it as a powerful solution for streamlining complex operations. Many companies view Procore as an essential investment, appreciating how it integrates different aspects of construction management into one cohesive system.
However, Procore’s extensive capabilities appeal mainly to larger enterprises that can leverage its full potential. The market perception shifts dramatically when it comes to smaller businesses and niche industries. Unexpected costs and rigid policies have led many smaller firms to consider the software overly complex and pricey. Many companies believe that Procore’s commitment to annual contracts and volume-based pricing limits flexibility for fluctuating workloads, driving them toward more flexible alternatives.
The bottom line
Procore’s comprehensive toolset has positioned it as a leader in construction management software, delivering real benefits to firms able to leverage its full capabilities. However, the rigid volume-based pricing and costly add-ons can make it difficult to justify the investment. If Procore hopes to remain accessible to businesses of all sizes, there is a clear call to action for the company to reconsider its pricing approach. “Procore is a powerful tool, but if they don’t make changes, contractors may start seeking alternatives,”says Jacob. “There’s always a bigger, better mousetrap.” Until then, many companies will likely consider more budget-friendly, user-centric alternatives.
Like this article? Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for more like this.
Across North America, 3D printing is reshaping how homes and buildings are constructed, offering a faster, more cost-effective solution to meet growing demands. From entire communities of printed homes in Austin, Texas, to the unique Fibonacci House in British Columbia, these projects are pushing the boundaries of traditional building methods, offering a glimpse into the future of sustainable construction.
1. Community First! Village
Location: Austin, Texas
Year Built: Ongoing (initial phase completed in 2019)
Type: Affordable housing for the homeless
The Community First! Village in Austin is a unique initiative aimed at providing permanent housing for Austin’s homeless population. ICON partnered with the organization to use 3D printing technology to construct durable, low-cost homes as part of the village. The houses are built using ICON’s Vulcan construction system, which prints resilient, sustainable, and cost-effective structures.
While not all homes in the village are 3D-printed, it remains one of several innovative construction techniques used to provide housing for people experiencing homelessness. This project is a remarkable example of how 3D printing can significantly impact society by providing dignified, permanent housing.
2. Wolf Ranch 3D-printed homes
Location: Georgetown, Texas
Year Built: 2023
Type: Residential development
Wolf Ranch, in Georgetown, Texas, is one of the largest 3D-printed home developments in the world. This development is a collaborative project between ICON and Lennar, showcasing the future of residential construction. This master-planned community features homes printed using ICON’s advanced 3D printing technology, offering modern designs with enhanced sustainability and energy efficiency. The project aims to revolutionize how we build homes by reducing construction time and labor costs while maintaining high standards for quality and durability.
Each home in the Wolf Ranch community is designed with innovation and livability in mind. It features open floor plans, energy-efficient systems, and resilient concrete walls that are stronger and longer-lasting than traditional wood or brick construction. These homes are also designed to blend into the natural landscape of Texas Hill Country, providing a seamless integration of modern technology with timeless architectural appeal.
The project demonstrates how 3D printing can be scaled up to create entire neighborhoods, potentially transforming the housing industry on a larger scale. Wolf Ranch is a prime example of how cutting-edge building techniques can address housing shortages and sustainability challenges.
3. New Story’s 3D-printed community
Location: Tabasco, Mexico
Year Built: 2019
Type: Residential community
In 2019, New Story, a nonprofit dedicated to housing those in need, teamed up with tech powerhouse ICON to build the world’s first 3D-printed community in Tabasco, Mexico. This project features 50 homes printed using ICON’s Vulcan II printer, explicitly designed to meet the needs of low-income families in the region. Each house was printed in just 24 hours and was built to withstand local environmental challenges like seismic activity.
The homes, each around 500 square feet, have two bedrooms, a living room, a kitchen, and a bathroom. This project demonstrates how 3D printing can provide affordable, safe, and resilient housing for vulnerable communities, offering a sustainable solution to global housing shortages.
4. Habitat for Humanity’s 3D-printed home
Location: Williamsburg, Virginia
Year Built: 2021
Type: Residential
In 2021, Habitat for Humanity made history by building its first 3D-printed home in Williamsburg, Virginia. This project was a breakthrough for affordable housing, demonstrating how 3D printing can reduce construction time and costs. The house was built in partnership with Alquist, a 3D-printing construction company, and combines traditional construction methods with cutting-edge 3D printing technology.
The 1,200-square-foot home has concrete walls, which offer greater durability and energy efficiency than typical wood-framed homes. The exterior structure was printed in just 12 hours, significantly faster than conventional building timelines. The house was then completed with a traditional roof, plumbing, and electrical systems, perfectly balancing innovative and established construction practices.
Designed for a single family, this 3D-printed home is a testament to how technology can be leveraged to create affordable, sustainable housing solutions accessible to more people. It also marked a significant step forward in Habitat for Humanity’s mission to eliminate substandard housing worldwide.
5. The Fibonacci House
Photo source: Airbnb
Location: Procter, British Columbia
Year Built: 2020
Type: Vacation rental/residential
The Fibonacci House in Procter, British Columbia, is Canada’s first 3D-printed home, inspired by the natural beauty of the Fibonacci sequence. Built in 2020 by the Netherlands-based construction company Twente Additive Manufacturing, this unique project stands out for its innovative construction method and design. It features a curved, spiraling layout that mirrors the mathematical proportions found in nature. The home was printed in layers using concrete, making it sustainable and energy-efficient.
The Fibonacci House is a small, cozy structure designed for short-term rentals, offering guests a unique opportunity to stay in a 3D-printed home. The house has modern amenities, while the concrete construction provides excellent insulation and durability. It was completed in just a few days, showcasing how 3D printing can be used for quick, efficient construction without sacrificing quality or design.
This project highlights the potential of 3D printing in residential construction, particularly for creating sustainable, affordable, and aesthetically striking homes. It’s a perfect example of how new technologies can be used to push the boundaries of architecture and design.
6. El Cosmico 3D-printed campground hotel
Location: Marfa, Texas
Year Built: Under development (2023 onwards)
Type: Hospitality/campground hotel
El Cosmico, a one-of-a-kind 3D-printed campground hotel in Marfa, Texas, is a collaboration between ICON and the world-renowned architecture firm BIG (Bjarke Ingels Group). The project reimagines an existing campground and hotel into a futuristic, desert-inspired oasis. Once completed, it will feature 3D-printed domes, vaults, and other organic shapes that blend seamlessly with the desert landscape. This project takes full advantage of 3D printing’s ability to create complex, freeform structures that traditional construction techniques can’t easily replicate.
El Cosmico is not just a hospitality project but also an artistic and architectural exploration. It offers unique accommodations that reflect Marfa’s natural beauty and cultural significance. With its sustainable building practices and innovative design, El Cosmico sets a new standard for eco-friendly and visually stunning 3D-printed architecture.
7. Azure Printed Homes
Photo source: Azure Magazine
Location: Culver City, California
Year Built: Ongoing (initial homes completed in 2022)
Type: Residential (single-family homes and accessory dwelling units – ADUs)
Azure Printed Homes, based in Culver City, California, is revolutionizing the housing industry with its innovative approach to 3D printing. Specializing in sustainable, prefabricated houses, Azure uses recycled plastic to 3D-print its structures, reducing material waste and environmental impact. The homes are printed in just a few days, offering a fast and affordable alternative to traditional construction.
Azure’s homes are designed to be eco-friendly, affordable, and customizable, making them a perfect solution for those looking for sustainable housing or backyard accessory dwelling units (ADUs). The company’s focus on using recycled materials sets it apart, offering a glimpse into the future of green construction. Azure is one of the first companies in North America to combine 3D printing with sustainability at this scale, demonstrating how modern technology can create affordable and environmentally responsible homes.
The bottom line
The future of 3D-printed construction in North America holds immense potential for transforming how we build homes, offices, and even large-scale infrastructure. As the technology advances, it offers clear benefits such as significant cost reductions, faster construction times, and improved sustainability. Using materials like concrete and recycled products, 3D-printed buildings are more energy-efficient and create less waste than traditional construction methods.
What began as a promising solution for affordable housing is now expanding into larger commercial and industrial projects. 3D printing is gradually moving from small-scale residential builds to bigger endeavors, including offices, schools, and community centers. As the technology evolves, it has the potential to address housing shortages, reduce environmental impact, and revolutionize how we approach construction at every level. The combination of innovation, sustainability, and efficiency makes 3D printing one of the most exciting developments in the building industry to date.
Want more like this? Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the details on the latest projects delivered straight to your inbox.
Time is money, and nowhere is that more evident than in the construction industry. Construction delays can cost companies anywhere from hundreds of dollars daily on smaller builds to tens of thousands each day on larger-scale projects. SmartPM Technologies creates solutions to simplify project management, allowing all stakeholders to access, understand, and manage constriction schedules easily.
The platform has been a hit with companies that love the ability to tap into data-driven insights into project schedules, but a new update to SmartPM’s software will make the process even easier.
SmartPM says the launch of its new custom reporting feature will allow users to generate consistent, customized reports automatically. Rather than logging onto the platform and sifting through all available project data to find the schedule updates that are relevant to them, custom reporting empowers users to receive updated reports whenever their project gets updated, achieves a milestone, or undergoes analysis.
This dynamic reporting feature provides real-time updates to everyone on your team, making it simple for all project partners to manage schedules, identify delays, and mitigate risk. The update also allows users to design reports and create visual representations of data, making reports easier to understand.
SmartPM’s custom reporting feature empowers users and helps save time, increase efficiency, and improve cross-team communication. Chief Technology Officer Rohit Sinha is excited about the update, saying, “With this release, we wanted to give our customers the ability to hone in on the risks that exist in their projects based on what is most important to them. This will help communicate critical information for project controls because users can dig into the data, highlight relevant risks, and succinctly communicate across the board.”
Permitting is one of the most onerous parts of a construction project, taking place before a single shovel hits the ground. Between complex forms, dense language, and lengthy approval times, many grow to dread the entire permit process. GreenLite hopes to ease permitting woes with its easy-to-use platform.
Calling itself a “high-speed connection between city agencies who review permit applications and the businesses that submit them,” GreenLite’s software offers an easy way to tackle permit submission and review services to help expedite applications, plus a handy dashboard to track and manage full portfolios for multiple permits and multiple projects. GreenLite also provides transparency into the permitting process, letting users check on the status of their application, any updates, and insight into what roadblocks are preventing permit approval. This visibility allows companies to accurately forecast project completion dates and avoid being dragged into the domino effect of bumped deadlines.
A simpler permitting process is a win because of how much time it can save, but it may save money, too. GreenLite’s website states that construction delays due to permitting issues cost the US construction industry over 40 billion dollars annually. It also claims that while standard permit turnaround times can be upwards of 90 days, GreenLite’s X-lane plan review services can get the job done in just 15-20.
Founded in April of 2022, GreenLite’s seamless permit software has attracted big-name clients, including fast-food giants like Chipotle, Chick-Fil-A, and Domino’s Pizza and commercial real estate firm Cushman & Wakefield.
Premier Construction Software has announced an exciting partnership with workforce management platform Lumber. This collaboration aims to bring powerful new capabilities to construction companies by seamlessly integrating Lumber’s advanced workforce management tools with Premier’s comprehensive construction software suite. Together, they are set to streamline how contractors manage their field workforce, improving everything from payroll to workforce tracking.
Benefits of this partnership
This partnership will enable Premier Construction Software users to access Lumber’s automated time tracking, skill matching, and real-time labor cost reporting features. These tools help construction firms manage their teams more efficiently, minimizing human error and saving time on repetitive tasks.
The integration promises to create a more efficient and connected workflow between office teams and field workers. Companies can better manage workforce data, reduce manual entry, and make more informed business decisions by using a single, integrated solution.
One of the primary benefits of this collaboration is its ability to address the unique challenges faced by construction companies when it comes to workforce management. The industry is notorious for its complexity, and efficient labor management is key to overall project success. With Lumber’s expertise in providing workforce management solutions and Premier’s robust software, contractors can now experience simplified workforce operations with real-time insights. This combination reduces the chance of delays, miscommunication, and unexpected labor costs.
“This partnership elevates our ability to deliver true end value to our clients,” said Karoline Lapko, CEO of Premier Construction Software. “In today’s fast-moving construction landscape, successful project delivery relies on accurate, real-time data flow and seamless software integration. Partnering with Lumber allows us to build a powerful, well-architected API that drives both efficiency and scalability, ensuring that clients are empowered to make timely, informed decisions across their operations.”
Another significant benefit of this partnership is the ability to track labor productivity across different job sites. As Lumber automates this process, contractors can quickly identify trends, adjust workforce allocations, and improve overall project efficiency. Premier Construction Software’s built-in accounting and project management tools can then use these insights to further streamline project costing, budgeting, and invoicing. The integration of the two platforms ensures data consistency, eliminating the need for duplicate entries and improving accuracy.
Bottom line
By partnering with Lumber, Premier Construction Software aims to enhance its offering for mid-size to large construction firms, helping them better manage their workforce and projects. This integration reflects a broader industry trend of leveraging technology to solve construction companies’ complex operational challenges.
Be sure to subscribe to our weekly newsletter to read more about exciting partnerships, important construction news, and various industry projects.
Oracle, a heavyweight in enterprise software, recently filed a lawsuit against Procore Technologies, one of North America’s biggest construction management platforms, claiming trade secret theft. Oracle alleges that Procore acquired thousands of sensitive Oracle documents through a former employee, Mark Mariano, who reportedly transferred proprietary files that included source code, client information, and business strategies before joining Procore. Oracle’s lawsuit seeks damages and aims to prevent Procore from using any information in those documents. This clash is one of the largest legal challenges in construction technology in years, with potential industry-wide consequences. But is there more to the story than what meets the eye?
The dispute in detail
Oracle’s suite of construction and engineering tools, such as Primavera Cloud, is widely recognized for integrating project management, scheduling, and resource coordination. Procore, in a similar vein, offers a cloud-based platform that facilitates various aspects of construction management, from project scheduling to financial and quality control. Both companies appeal to similar user bases, which likely intensifies this legal confrontation.
According to Oracle, Mariano, who left Oracle to work with Procore, took thousands of files containing highly confidential information. Oracle is pushing for a court-ordered block on Procore’s use of the information, alleging it offers Procore a shortcut to Oracle’s advancements. The lawsuit has implications for both companies’ strategies and the construction tech sector, where Oracle and Procore hold strong positions.
The significance of timing
Oracle filed the lawsuit only a couple of weeks before Procore’s largest annual industry event, which some see as a strategic move to dampen Procore’s public relations. Moreover, Procore has been rapidly expanding its international presence, potentially encroaching on Oracle’s global reach. This timing leads to questions about Oracle’s motives, as Procore’s international footprint competes in regions Oracle traditionally dominates.
This isn’t the first instance of Procore facing high-profile scrutiny; a notable dispute with Autodesk a decade ago also brought attention to the company. This latest conflict raises the stakes even further, drawing a sharp line between two of the industry’s most influential players.
Procore’s response
Procore released a public statement denying any wrongdoing in response to Oracle’s allegations. Procore asserts that it respects competitors’ intellectual property rights and maintains that the lawsuit is unfounded. The statement underscores Procore’s commitment to fair competition and argues that the lawsuit’s timing is unfortunate given its proximity to Procore’s annual event.
Procore’s CEO, Tooey Courtemanche, has voiced confidence in Procore’s legal standing, emphasizing that Procore’s success is rooted in its own innovations rather than borrowed ideas. He also alludes to Procore’s commitment to transparency and cooperation with the legal process, framing the company as an unwilling participant in what it describes as Oracle’s aggressive tactics.
Implications for the construction tech industry
If Oracle prevails, the outcome could shift competitive dynamics in construction tech, potentially slowing Procore’s momentum in the international market. With its extensive legal and financial resources, Oracle appears determined to guard its intellectual property, which could deter other players from attempting similar competitive strategies. This case may also change how companies approach employee transitions, as former employees carrying sensitive information could pose major risks.
On the other hand, if Procore successfully defends itself, it would solidify its standing in the industry, potentially emboldening other tech firms to aggressively expand within Oracle’s customer base. Procore’s rapid international growth also highlights the increasing demand for construction tech solutions across borders, especially for platforms capable of integrating with complex tools like Oracle’s Primavera.
Potential precedents and the road ahead
The lawsuit could set precedents regarding how tech companies manage trade secrets, especially in industries where intellectual property is a competitive cornerstone. An Oracle victory could influence how restrictive contracts are for employees moving between competitors, possibly leading to stricter controls on document access for departing employees. Conversely, a favorable outcome for Procore could encourage tech firms to focus on product improvements that attract talent without relying on competitor information.
This trial will be watched closely by the construction and tech industries alike. With cloud-based tools increasingly central to project management and data handling, intellectual property boundaries will likely be under more scrutiny. Construction technology is seeing steady adoption, and companies across the globe are looking for efficient, scalable solutions. This legal battle underscores the high stakes in a market projected to continue growing as the sector digitalizes.
Interested in the latest construction tech developments? Subscribe to our weekly newsletter to stay updated on industry trends and big stories shaping the field.
Wolf Ranch, located in Georgetown, Texas, is setting a new standard in residential construction. Built by Lennar and ICON and co-designed by BIG (Bjarke Ingels Group), the innovative, 100-home community (named the “Genesis Collection”) uses advanced materials, engineering, and 3D-printing technology, making each structure strong, resilient, and energy-efficient. Wolf Ranch was designed to offer sustainable and affordable homes in the wake of a massive housing crisis.
Rendering of 3D printed homes at Wolf Ranch. Photo source: ICON Build.
ICON, a leader in advanced construction technologies, uses a 46-foot-wide Vulcan printer and their proprietary Lavacrete material to create the 3D-printed homes at Wolf Ranch. Each home has modern ranch-style aesthetics, offering energy-efficient features and innovative architectural designs. Using additive construction allows for a more environmentally friendly process, producing homes at scale with less waste and greater design flexibility.
“For the first time in the history of the world, what we’re witnessing here is a fleet of robots building an entire community of homes,” said ICON’s co-founder and CEO, Jason Ballard. “Not just any homes, but homes that are better in every way… better design, higher strength, higher energy performance and comfort, and increased resiliency.” Ballard sees this project as a “watershed moment” in community-scale development, marking the beginning of a new era in housing construction.
ICON Vulcan 3D printer constructing homes at Wolf Ranch. Photo source: ICON Build.
Lennar, one of the nation’s leading homebuilders, also emphasized the importance of innovation in addressing the housing shortage. “It has never been more important to innovate in order to find new methods of construction that will enable greater design flexibility and production at affordable prices,” stated Stuart Miller, Lennar’s Executive Chairman. The homes at Wolf Ranch, starting in the mid-$400,000s, showcase Lennar’s commitment to sustainability and affordability.
The master-planned community offers eight floorplans, ranging between 1,574 and 2,112 square feet, with three to four bedrooms and two to three bathrooms. All homes feature rooftop solar panels and are equipped with Lennar’s Connected Home package, which includes smart home technologies and a proprietary Wolf Ranch security package.
In addition to its innovative construction, Wolf Ranch provides residents access to tree-covered hill country amenities, including pools, recreational trails, and parks. “The Georgetown community prides itself on honoring our past and innovating for our future,” said Georgetown Mayor Josh Schroeder. “We are eager to see the future being built right here.”
Wolf Ranch represents a forward-thinking model for residential developments, illustrating how technology and sustainability can coexist to create modern and environmentally conscious homes.
Foresight Autonomous Holdings Ltd. and BuilderX have announced a multi-phase collaboration agreement to enhance safety and operational efficiency in hazardous industrial environments. After successfully completing a proof-of-concept (POC) project, the two companies will integrate Foresight’s 3D perception technology into BuilderX’s AI-driven teleoperation systems for heavy machinery. This system lets operators remotely control and monitor equipment, providing real-time feedback using multiple cameras mounted on machinery.
The technology is particularly valuable in environments where operators face exposure to toxic chemicals, severe dust, or poor visibility. The partnership aims to significantly reduce accidents and health hazards by removing operators from these high-risk zones. In addition to visible-light cameras, future integration plans include both visible-light and thermal cameras, which could eventually enable fully autonomous heavy machinery operations under harsh conditions.
Shaolong Sui, CEO of BuilderX, highlighted the importance of this partnership in addressing the unique challenges of hazardous work environments. He stated, “As hazardous environments pose significant challenges for heavy machinery, we believe that our collaboration with Foresight will provide our equipment with the advanced AI capabilities needed to navigate these demanding conditions and deliver exceptional performance.”
Oren Bar-On, CEO of Foresight Asia, added, “We are excited to partner with BuilderX to bring our advanced 3D perception technology to the heavy machinery industry. This collaboration will enable us to leverage our expertise and enable heavy machinery to operate reliably and safely in even the most extreme conditions.”
The benefits of using AI and tech in the construction industry
By implementing Foresight and BuilderX’s AI and 3D perception technology, companies can see significant cost reductions through several vital benefits:
Lower labor costs: Reduced need for on-site operators due to remote-controlled and autonomous systems.
Decreased insurance premiums: Fewer workplace accidents lead to lower insurance expenses.
Operational efficiency: Improved precision and reduced downtime cut maintenance and fuel costs.
Increased productivity: Autonomous equipment enables continuous operations in harsh environments without human intervention.
The partnership represents the growing integration of AI and 3D perception technology in construction, offering new solutions for improved safety and performance across the industry. As technology advances, fully autonomous operations could become the industry standard, driving further innovation and cost-efficiency.
Artificial intelligence (AI) models can write and create art; now, companies are leveraging the power of AI to use on construction sites. From alerting site managers of missing PPE to autonomously controlling heavy machinery, AI technology is increasing job site safety, accuracy, and efficiency. Dozer, AIM, and AlwaysAI are some companies leading the way in AI-driven workplace safety.
AI in construction
Construction isn’t necessarily the first industry you’d think of when envisioning how AI can be applied in the real world. Still, in recent years, innovative companies have shown how useful it can be.
Project planning: AI programs can reduce errors and expedite the planning process by analyzing environmental, material, and regulatory data, making the process simple and seamless.
Project management: Assisting with accurate costing, estimating, risk management, and monitoring construction progress takes many onerous project management tasks and leverages the power of AI to get them done quicker and easier.
Robotics and autonomous machinery: AI-operated heavy equipment, robotic devices that can create accurate design layouts, and robots to handle dangerous construction tasks—AI is moving beyond the screen and into the job site to make construction safer and more consistent.
Safety monitoring: Artificial intelligence software can detect when workers have failed to protect themselves by wearing appropriate PPE and monitor sites for human collisions, safety risks, and hazards.
The link between AI and workplace safety
Human beings are fallible. We make mistakes, miss details, and forget to wear PPE; our decision-making and cognitive abilities are affected by a poor night’s sleep, worries about loved ones, or extreme weather conditions. Conversely, AI provides a consistent, accurate source of data, tracking, and information. Here are four companies leveraging the power of artificial intelligence models to make worksites safer.
4 companies using AI to improve job site safety
Dozer
Like an AI-powered dashcam for your construction equipment, Dozer cameras provide a 360-degree view of each machine it’s installed on at the construction site, including the cabin and bucket. In addition to a live video feed you can access remotely anytime, Dozer uses an artificial intelligence platform to document collisions, near misses, and human proximity and calculate each machine’s risk level. All information is compiled in an easy-to-read dashboard, allowing you to track machine operations remotely.
Dozer also sends safety alerts about incidents or close calls, ensuring that you are notified about accidents in real-time without waiting for an incident report after the fact.
The Dozer system is easily installed with included wire management, sensor clips, and camera mounts, and requires a 12-volt power source. The platform is available for desktops and as an app for iPhones and Android devices.
AIM
Bellevue, Washington-based AIM has created an AI program capable of operating heavy construction equipment, including bulldozers, excavators, and skid steers. By enabling AIM, heavy equipment becomes fully autonomous and can operate day and night in any weather.
The autonomous system can be retrofitted to older machinery, installed in a day, and allows users to operate in three modes: fully autonomous, via remote control, or manually with an operator.
Although AIM has experienced no accidents to date, its website pre-empts concerns about safety and insurance by stating that every AIM-enabled machine is insured for autonomous operation by a global insurance company.
AlwaysAI
Always AI creates pioneering solutions in a wide variety of industries, including restaurants, retail, mining, and construction. Their AI software uses cameras to identify risks, safety issues, and potential liabilities on construction sites, making projects safer.
AlwaysAI Smart Construction uses existing cameras to identify workers not wearing appropriate PPE, monitor entry gates and other site access points, provide information about site occupancy numbers, and track project progress, including machine idle time. All data is updated in real-time and accessible through the SmartAI software, allowing users to manage projects quickly and efficiently.
Dusty Robotics
This aptly named company leverages AI and robotics to help create multi-trade design layouts for build sites. Its AI platform reduces total layout time, shortens traditional building methods by 60%, and does everything with 95% precision.
The Dusty Robotics device maps looks like a miniature Zamboni and traverses job sites and building interiors to create accurate layouts. It can map up to 15,000 square feet daily with a single operator up to 1/16” accuracy. The AI-powered model shortens design time, eliminates errors and inaccuracies, and provides tailored layouts for each trade, virtually eliminating accidents due to inaccurate plans.
Using futuristic tech to make job sites safer today
Finding innovative ways to apply AI-powered technology allows companies to make projects run more efficiently while also protecting workers. Artificial intelligence can identify hazards, recognize potential accidents, and ensure proper safety protocols are followed, making it one of the most valuable tools on any job site.
Don't Miss Out on the Conversation.
Under the Hard Hat delivers real conversations about safety, mental health, tech, and growth in construction. Join our newsletter to stay connected, informed, and ahead—straight from industry pros who’ve been there.
