As technology evolves, it gives
new shape and meaning to reality,
offering up new ways of looking at
and understanding objects, spaces,
and environments. Many different
industries and types of businesses
are harnessing "reality" technology to
improve and expand operations and
drive growth.
In the construction industry in
particular, reality technology holds
significant promise, helping teams
increase accuracy and confidence
during planning and construction, as
well as improve communication and
collaboration—both on the work site
and in the office. The technologies
currently used in construction
workflows include virtual reality (VR),
augmented reality (AR), and mixed
reality (MR). Jointly, they are referred
to as extended reality, or XR.
Worldwide spending on augmented
and virtual reality is expected to reach
$18.8 billion in 2020.
By helping the various stakeholders
involved in a project to quickly and
easily visualize and explore designs,
models, and site conditions, XR is
changing the way construction is done
and improving workflows across the
building and infrastructure lifecycle.
Much more than just the latest tech
trend, XR technologies are addressing
some of the most challenging
and costly problems construction
companies face, making these
tools a must-have solution to
remain competitive.
As XR technologies continue to gain
steam in the construction industry,
contractors and consultants will need
to have a baseline understanding of
what the technologies are, how they
can be used, and the benefits they
provide. This paper explains the
benefits of XR in general and details
the differences between VR, AR, and
MR technologies. It also outlines
the uses of these technologies in
construction and what to consider
when choosing the best technology
for specific needs.
How, When, & Why to Use
Extended Reality to Improve
Construction Outcomes
Bringing Construction Plans to Life
worldwide spending
on augmented and
virtual reality is
expected to reach
$18.8 billion in 2020.
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