Civil Engineering and Construction Firms Must Read! Concrete Measures and Case Studies to Boost Productivity with Construction DX

Introduction: How Will Construction Sites Change with Construction DX?

The wave of digital transformation (DX) is sweeping the construction industry as well. With chronic labor shortages, an aging workforce of skilled tradespeople, and the three Ks of “kitsui, kiken, kitanai” (tough, dangerous, dirty), digitization and efficiency improvement of operations are unavoidable challenges. The government has set a target to improve productivity at construction sites by 20% by fiscal 2025, and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism is promoting the use of ICT through *i-Construction*. In practice, leading general contractors have introduced advanced technologies such as drone surveying and 3D scanner point cloud measurement, and reforms of business processes from surveying to design, construction, and maintenance management are progressing.

Among these efforts in construction DX, “surveying” and “as-built (shape) management” are particularly important areas directly linked to on-site productivity. Surveying and as-built verification have historically required significant time and manpower, but DX can dramatically streamline these processes while improving safety and quality. This article looks at the entire scope of civil engineering and construction operations, focusing on improving the efficiency of on-site surveying and as-built management, explaining concrete methods and case studies to raise productivity. It also touches on DX applications in related areas such as drawing management, schedule management, cloud-based information sharing, and safety management, and concludes by introducing the latest tool called LRTK as a way to start DX from the field.

Challenges of Conventional Surveying Work (Problems with Manual Surveying)

Surveying work at construction sites spans a wide range of tasks, from current topographic surveys to layout using batter boards (known as chōhari), stake-driving and string alignment, to finished-dimension measurements for as-built verification. Traditionally, these tasks have been carried out using dedicated instruments such as total stations and levels, along with analog tools such as tapes and staffs, typically requiring multiple personnel. However, manual-centered surveying has several issues.

• Human resources and time intensive: A surveyor and an assistant typically work as a pair to measure point by point over large areas, so the work takes time. Setting batter boards requires coordination between the heavy-equipment operator and a guide, making the preparation-to-construction process cumbersome. Handling these surveying tasks with limited personnel is a significant burden for small and medium-sized enterprises.

• Measurement risks in hazardous locations: Surveying on steep slopes, along rivers, or next to busy roads—places difficult for people to enter—is always accompanied by danger. Measurements at heights or around heavy machinery also carry risks of falls or contact accidents.

• Measurements are limited to points and can miss issues: Manual surveying can only physically measure a limited number of points, so only parts of the terrain or structures are captured. For example, measuring heights at several locations may miss unevenness between them. Measuring only the minimum required points can overlook subtle surface irregularities or dimensional deviations, creating a risk of being flagged during later inspections for “not matching the design” and having to rush corrections.

• Time-consuming data organization and sharing: Survey results are organized by handwriting on drawings or tables or by transcribing into spreadsheets. There are many analog steps like creating paper drawings or photo albums and mailing them to the client, which inevitably takes time. Because information is not shared in real time between the site and the office, reporting and confirmation lag occurs.

For these reasons, conventional surveying work has been in a state of “time- and labor-intensive, with safety and accuracy challenges.” The next chapter examines how these surveying operations can change with DX technologies and presents concrete measures.

Challenges of Conventional As-Built Management (Problems with Analog Management)

“As-built” refers to portions of a structure completed during construction, and “as-built management” is the process of verifying and recording, based on measurement data, whether the construction meets the specifications intended by the client. In public works, as-built management results must be submitted as inspection documents, making this task critical for quality assurance. However, as-built management has traditionally depended on manual work and experience, and the following issues have been pointed out at sites.

• Heavy workload: From verifying heights, thicknesses, and widths by direct measurement to photographing and organizing records, the entire as-built check is a major burden for site engineers. It requires many personnel and long hours, and with a shortage of experienced surveyors, it is not easy to reliably complete within deadlines.

• Oversights due to limited measurement points: The number of points that can be measured manually is limited, making it difficult to fully grasp the entire construction area. Measuring only a limited number of locations risks missing small differences from the design. Particularly for large-scale structures, the limits of manual measurement make it hard to grasp variability in as-built conditions, posing the risk that some dimensions will later be found out of specification.

• Human errors such as missing records: In a busy site, human errors such as forgetting to take photos or writing measurement data incorrectly can occur. For example, if photos are not taken before backfilling buried pipes, there will be no evidence after completion, leading in the worst case to rework or disputes. Paper-based records also carry the risk of loss.

Because of these weaknesses—“measuring only points” and “human errors”—sites have long sought more efficient and reliable as-built management methods. The new measurement and management methods utilizing DX technologies described next have emerged to meet that need.

Concrete Measures to Improve Efficiency through Surveying DX

By using the latest digital technologies, surveying work can be dramatically improved in efficiency. Here are concrete measures enabled by surveying DX and their effects.

① Use of 3D surveying (point cloud measurement): By scanning an entire site with a laser scanner or drone photogrammetry, large amounts of surveying data can be obtained in a short time. For example, by aerially photographing a site with a small drone and processing it with dedicated software, it is possible to create an accurate 3D model of the entire construction site and calculate earthwork volumes on the spot in about 30 minutes. Because the site shape can be captured as a surface, the speed is orders of magnitude faster than the traditional point-and-line manual measurement method. The acquired 3D point cloud data can be overlaid with design models (BIM/CIM) to check as-built conformity, and can also be used to create cross-sections and calculate volumes. Leading general contractors are already matching as-built point clouds to design data to detect construction mistakes and dimensional deviations early during construction and correct them. Addressing items that used to be pointed out only at completion inspection in advance greatly reduces rework. Moreover, the 3D as-built data can be stored in the cloud as-built documentation and used for future maintenance and renovation planning.

② High-precision positioning with RTK-GNSS: RTK-GNSS (real-time kinematic satellite positioning) is gaining attention as a tool to make manual surveying more efficient. RTK is a technology that provides centimeter-level positioning in real time, and recent years have seen miniaturization and cost reductions in receivers. Using RTK-compatible GNSS devices and receiving correction information from a base station makes centimeter-level positioning possible for anyone. This enables on-site staff to perform accurate layout and leveling—tasks that traditionally relied on experienced surveyors—quickly and directly. Even without purchasing dedicated equipment, inexpensive RTK receivers that attach to smartphones or tablets have recently appeared, turning your handheld device into a high-precision surveying instrument.

③ Positioning and checks with AR technology: Augmented reality (AR) technology that overlays design models on tablet or smartphone screens is a revolutionary tool supporting surveying DX. For example, projecting road or structure 3D design data onto the actual site scene in real time greatly simplifies marking tasks for alignment. With AR guidance, tasks such as installing batter boards or checking baseline points that traditionally required two people can be performed accurately by a single person. For heavy-equipment operators, visualizing excavation extents and target elevations with AR makes work easier and reduces construction errors. Overlaying the completed model on the current site also lets you visually confirm excesses or shortages during construction, helping to prevent rework.

④ Use of ICT construction equipment and machine guidance: If surveying data is loaded directly into construction machines via ICT-equipped machinery (machine control/guidance), surveying and construction become seamlessly connected and productivity soars. GPS and sensors mounted on excavators and bulldozers display and control design slopes and elevations in real time, eliminating the need to set batter boards on site and allowing a single operator to finish the machine to the required shape. As a result, excavation work that previously required 2–3 accompanying surveyors can be made more efficient and labor-saving, and the safety benefit of removing the need for guides is significant.

Combining the above DX technologies dramatically improves the productivity of surveying tasks. You can measure wide areas with few people in a short time, and safely acquire data non-contact in hazardous locations. In one case, subgrade as-built measurement that used to take half a day was completed quickly with the introduction of 3D scanning, and data sharing was finished the same day. In another case, a young engineer performed trial drone photogrammetry and obtained in a few hours what normally took several days of surveying, prompting full-scale adoption. Surveying DX is now within reach not just for large contractors but also for small and medium-sized firms, and movements such as “even without expensive dedicated equipment, start with a small drone or smartphone” are spreading. With affordable tools available, now is an excellent opportunity to begin DX from surveying work.

[Note*] Example: There are cases where drone photogrammetry successfully produced a 3D model and calculated earthwork volumes in about 30 minutes (work that previously required several hours to several days for data processing was completed almost instantly, significantly shortening the time from surveying to as-built verification).

Concrete Measures to Improve Productivity with As-Built Management DX

Next, let’s look at concrete measures and effects of applying DX to as-built management tasks. As mentioned earlier, as-built management is extremely important for quality assurance but has traditionally required time and manpower. Digital technology is transforming this process as well.

① As-built measurement using point cloud data: Using point cloud data obtained by laser scanning or photogrammetry enables recording and verifying structures and terrain after construction as high-density 3D data. For example, in road construction, subgrade and pavement thicknesses and heights used to be measured manually at specific locations, but with 3D scanning you can measure the entire surface immediately after completion and check at once whether heights and slopes match the design. Because point clouds consist of countless measurement points, they do not miss subtle irregularities that could not be measured before. Knowing where corrections are needed prior to inspection prevents rework caused by variability in as-built conditions. Furthermore, you can digitally extract arbitrary cross-sections from the acquired as-built point cloud data or later check clearances of buried items—analysis freedoms unique to digital data.

② Integrated management of as-built and progress quantities: Data collected for as-built management can also be used for quantity control (progress management). For earthfill and cut projects like residential land development, scanning the surface with drones or ground LiDAR immediately after completion and converting to a point cloud allows automatic calculation of fill and excavation volumes concurrently with as-built inspection. Tasks that used to require manual surveying and volume calculations are completed at the push of a button. Being able to calculate earthwork volumes on the spot and compare them with design values enables immediate correction of shortages or excesses, making it revolutionary to manage as-built and quantity together.

③ Digitization of photo records and automatic geotagging: Photo organization for as-built management is important, and DX simplifies this work. If an app on a smartphone or tablet records the latitude/longitude, elevation, and orientation of each photo when taken, position-tagged as-built photos will be accumulated in the cloud in time series. Creating photo albums by writing shooting date and location—a traditional chore—can be streamlined, improving efficiency and accuracy. Digital photos are reliable evidence for items that become invisible later, such as buried utilities.

④ Safety improvements through remote measurement: DX also brings major benefits to safety management. As mentioned, drones and long-range laser scanners can measure as-built conditions non-contact in hazardous areas where people cannot approach. For example, in steep slope verification, scanning the entire slope from a distance and obtaining a 3D model allows workers to avoid climbing the slope. In disaster-stricken areas or sites at risk of collapse, drone aerial photography quickly records conditions and minimizes dangerous on-site inspections. High-elevation work and measurements around heavy equipment can also be done remotely, reducing the risk of falls or contact with machinery—DX’s effect on safety management is tremendous.

By integrating DX into as-built management, quality assurance and efficiency can be achieved together. In one slope work case, using a smartphone-mounted LiDAR allowed dangerous on-slope measurements to be completed quickly from a safe distance. In another case, as-built point cloud data was shared in the cloud for real-time confirmation with the client, smoothing the inspection process. Expected results from as-built management DX include major reductions in work time, labor savings through fewer personnel, prevention of mistakes and oversights, improved safety, and asset-creation through effective use of recorded data in the future. These directly translate into improved on-site productivity and reliability, so investments in as-built management DX are expected to yield substantial returns.

Other Construction DX Initiatives in Business Operations

Beyond surveying and as-built management, DX is starting to advance in various operational areas on-site. Here is a brief introduction to expected benefits of DX in drawing management, schedule management, information sharing, and safety management.

• DX in drawing management: Traditionally, paper drawings were distributed and swapped, but cloud-based drawing management systems enable sharing of the latest design documents at all times. If drawings and BIM models can be viewed and annotated on tablet devices, design changes and as-built dimensions can be confirmed in real time between site and office. This not only reduces printing and mailing costs but also prevents construction errors caused by misreading drawings or using outdated versions.

• DX in schedule management: Digitalizing schedules and daily reports is an effective DX measure to improve productivity. With cloud-based schedule management tools, each person in charge can input and share work progress from their smartphone or PC, improving overall visibility of the schedule. Gantt charts can be updated automatically based on site progress, and schedule changes can be notified to all stakeholders. This enables major efficiencies in setup and reduction of idle waiting times. Analysis of actual data can also help shorten future project durations.

• Cloud-based information sharing: Centralizing site photos, as-built data, and inspection documents in the cloud allows the same latest information to be shared in real time with geographically separate offices and clients. For example, uploading point cloud data or photos obtained on site lets head office staff confirm as-built conditions without being on site, and distant engineers can provide advice—enabling remote construction management. In a tunnel project in a mountainous area, a case exists where drone-captured point clouds were instantly shared via satellite communications to head office for real-time construction management. Cloud sharing reduces travel time and business trip costs and was highlighted during recent infectious disease outbreaks as a way to minimize personnel on site while maintaining project progress.

• DX in safety management: Digital technologies are also used for site safety measures. Examples include fitting IoT sensors to workers’ helmets to monitor heatstroke risk, and AI-based video analysis systems that detect proximity between heavy equipment and people and issue alarms. Conducting hazard prediction activities (KY) and preparing safety documents via apps eliminates the need for handwriting and stamping on site. VR and simulation experiences for dangerous tasks are also being used in safety training. By realizing “visible safety management” through DX, it is possible to aim for zero accidents caused by human error.

As shown, construction DX is progressing in many areas beyond surveying and as-built management. The important point is to introduce DX from the appropriate areas that match your company’s issues. The next chapter explains steps and points for successful DX adoption.

Steps and Success Points for Introducing Construction DX

When introducing new technologies or systems to the field, a planned approach is key to success. Here are basic DX adoption steps and precautions that small and medium civil and construction firms can implement.

• Identify current issues and set goals: First, organize what is creating bottlenecks in your field operations. Clarify issues by listening to site voices—surveying taking too long, overtime for as-built inspections, drawing communication errors, etc. Then set concrete improvement goals such as “reduce surveying time by X%” or “simplify inspection document preparation.” With a clear purpose, the direction for DX adoption becomes apparent.

• Research technologies/tools that solve the problems and start small: Research digital technologies and tools that match your issues. You do not need to change everything at once. The key is to “start small in areas likely to yield high impact.” For example, with surveying DX, instead of immediately buying an expensive laser scanner, try renting one or using inexpensive smartphone surveying devices for a small-scale field pilot. Starting with a small drone is also a good approach. Testing with actual equipment allows you to check staff reactions and effectiveness and provides a basis for decisions about full deployment. A small-start approach to validate effectiveness without a large upfront investment is the secret to avoid failure.

• Involve and train site staff: Human resource skill development is essential to master new technologies. At introduction, explain thoroughly to site personnel and foremen and seek their cooperation. Share benefits such as “this will make work easier” and “safety will improve” to boost motivation. Conduct workshops and training in advance on device operation and data handling so that anyone can use them. It’s effective to cultivate young employees as DX promotion leaders. Gather ideas and opinions from the field and jointly develop user-friendly workflows with site staff.

• Establish operation rules and a data-sharing framework: After tool introduction, rules for continuous operation are necessary. For example, when uploading surveying data or photos to the cloud, define file naming conventions, folder structures, and permission management so required information can be found easily later. As you move from paper to digital, information volume grows dramatically, so set data management rules in advance. Also designate persons and timing for sharing data between site and head office so that the collected digital information does not become buried. Sites that initially struggle will find information sharing proceeds smoothly once rules are established.

• Verify effects and expand horizontally: After a pilot period, measure effects against the initial goals. Confirm quantitative results such as “surveying days were reduced by X%” or “the number of as-built corrections decreased.” Collect feedback from site staff on usability and improvement points, and address issues. If effects are demonstrated, consider horizontal deployment to other sites or processes. Share success stories within the company to raise interest in DX. Accumulating small successes builds confidence for company-wide digitalization.

• Continuous improvement and follow-up on the latest technologies: DX introduction is not a one-time event but an ongoing improvement activity. Since site conditions and technologies evolve daily, regularly gather information on the latest solutions. Don’t miss updates to apps and devices, and continually seek optimal usage. Incorporate site requests for additional functions or integration with other systems—keeping the PDCA cycle running is a key to DX success.

By following these steps, you should be able to introduce construction DX effectively without undue strain. Note that during the initial phase, dual operation (e.g., double data entry or parallel systems) may cause extra work, but treat this as an investment in the transition. If accuracy or reliability is a concern, cross-check DX tool data with traditional methods while progressing. If site staff feel confusion or resistance, allow a period for gradual familiarization and never ignore field voices. The purpose of DX is “to make work easier for people so they can concentrate on value-added tasks.” Share that essence with everyone and advance field-led digital reform.

If You’re Starting Field DX, Start with “LRTK”

As described so far, there are many effective measures for surveying and as-built management DX, but many may wonder, “Which tool should we start with?” We recommend the tool “LRTK,” which enables simple, high-precision surveying with a smartphone. LRTK is a pocket-sized RTK-GNSS receiver developed by Reflexia Inc., a Tokyo Institute of Technology spin-off. By attaching the small device that fits in the palm of your hand to a smartphone or tablet and connecting via Bluetooth, your everyday iPhone or Android device instantly becomes a centimeter-level accuracy (half-inch accuracy) surveying instrument.

Paired with the dedicated app “LRTK,” this single device makes on-site positioning, measurement, recording, and sharing astonishingly simple. Key features include:

• High-precision positioning: The RTK method allows real-time measurement of current positions with accuracy within a few centimeters (a few inches). Layout and as-built measurement can be performed accurately with a single smartphone, enabling near-total-station-level surveying by anyone.

• 3D point cloud scanning: Utilizing a smartphone’s built-in LiDAR scanner or camera, you can obtain high-precision point cloud data with position information. Walking around the site scans surrounding terrain and structures and converts them to a 3D model on the spot. Because you can measure wide areas at once, this prevents oversight due to insufficient measurement points.

• AR-based alignment and design data display: Using the app’s AR functionality, design models and drawing information can be overlaid on the real environment. No time-consuming pre-alignment is required; viewed through the smartphone screen, design lines and elevations are projected without misalignment. This reduces batter board and marking work and allows intuitive on-site understanding of the finished image.

• Photo measurement and cloud sharing: Photos taken with the smartphone are immediately tagged with positioning coordinates and orientation and automatically uploaded to the cloud. You can check site conditions from the office, and anyone can view point cloud data and photos via a shared URL. Real-time information sharing between site and office is realized, and inspection attendance can be streamlined online.

LRTK is ultra-compact and lightweight, weighing approximately 125 g with a thickness of 13 mm (0.51 in), and has a built-in battery, making it easy to carry on site. The price is set very reasonably compared with traditional surveying equipment, significantly reducing initial costs compared to purchasing dedicated devices. Because it utilizes your existing smartphone, deploying “one-per-person” is a realistic prospect. By introducing smartphone surveying tools like LRTK, even sites without resident surveying specialists can have construction managers or tradespeople measure necessary locations themselves and immediately share that data in the cloud. This is a revolutionary style that simultaneously achieves reductions in time, cost, and labor while improving safety and quality.

LRTK is compatible with ICT construction promoted by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism and is an ideal solution for accelerating digitalization in the construction industry. It is being adopted at various sites nationwide and is opening a new era in which “as-built surveying can be completed by our own team.” Designed for intuitive use even by those with limited surveying experience, it is a familiar and easy surveying DX tool for civil engineers, clients, and tradespeople alike.

Construction DX should start from the field. If your site has issues with surveying or as-built management, why not begin DX by using a smartphone surveying tool like LRTK? You are likely to gain confidence that “we too can do high-precision surveying,” and experience remarkable improvements in operational efficiency. Above all, quality control based on accurate data will enhance project-wide reliability and benefit all stakeholders. Embrace digital technologies and experience improved productivity and safety on site; your company’s future sites will surely evolve into smarter and more resilient workplaces.