In the ever-evolving landscape of construction, the quest for sustainability and efficiency is more pressing than ever. A groundbreaking study published in Buildings, led by Dema Munef Ahmad from the Department of Civil Engineering at Széchenyi István University in Hungary, offers a promising solution to one of the industry’s most persistent challenges: inefficient material tracking.
Ahmad’s research, published in Buildings, which translates to ‘Buildings’ in English, introduces a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) framework designed to revolutionize materials tracking systems (MTSs). The framework integrates QR codes, GPS tracking, and cloud-based dashboards to support accurate planning, smooth coordination, and real-time monitoring from the early design stages to on-site implementation.
The construction industry has long grappled with issues like unnecessary waste, budget overruns, and project delays, all stemming from poor material tracking. Despite the advent of various digital tools, a practical, field-tested framework that combines these technologies with clear, structured procedures has been lacking, especially in resource-constrained environments. Ahmad’s SOP framework aims to fill this gap.
The study employed a mixed-methods approach, combining surveys with construction professionals and focus group discussions with engineers, IT specialists, and logistics staff. The findings were eye-opening. “Procurement and implementation are the phases most prone to inefficiencies,” Ahmad noted. “Particularly around material receiving, quality checks, and on-site placement.”
The validated SOP framework shows strong potential to improve tracking accuracy, reduce material waste, and streamline construction workflows. It offers a flexible, easy-to-use system for integrating sustainability into everyday project practices. But the benefits don’t stop at sustainability. For the energy sector, where construction projects are often large-scale and complex, this framework could mean significant cost savings and improved project timelines.
Looking ahead, Ahmad’s study also points to future opportunities for applying AI-based tools. Predictive tracking and automated quality checks could further improve decision-making and resource efficiency in construction projects. Imagine a future where AI can predict material needs before they run out, or where quality checks are automated, reducing the risk of human error. This is not just a pipe dream; it’s a tangible future that Ahmad’s research is helping to shape.
The energy sector, with its massive construction projects and stringent sustainability goals, stands to gain immensely from this research. By adopting this SOP framework, energy companies could see a significant reduction in material waste, leading to cost savings and a smaller environmental footprint. Moreover, the improved tracking accuracy and real-time monitoring could enhance project management, ensuring that projects are completed on time and within budget.
Ahmad’s research is a significant step forward in the quest for sustainable construction. It offers a practical, field-tested solution to a long-standing problem, and it opens the door to even more advanced technologies in the future. As the construction industry continues to evolve, this SOP framework could become a cornerstone of sustainable, efficient project management.