Infrastructure Victoria has released a new report assessing 25 existing digital technologies and their potential to boost productivity across government infrastructure in the near term.
The Digital technology and infrastructure productivity report finds that five digital technologies can help meet Victoria’s growing infrastructure needs faster.
“There are proven digital technologies, ready now, that can transform how infrastructure is designed, built and maintained,” Infrastructure Victoria CEO Dr Jonathan Spear said.
“Wider use of digital technology across government infrastructure can save money, boost productivity and improve worker safety.”
The report shortlists five technologies that offer the greatest potential to deliver big savings and productivity benefits, if widely used:
- Machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI)
- Robotics
- Advanced imaging
- Advanced data analytics
- Geospatial technologies
Using robotics for inspection and maintenance across the water sector, for example can prevent water leaks by ten per cent and save over $140 million in maintenance and repair costs every year, the analysis finds.
Building information modelling, which uses advanced data analytics to create 3D digital models, is widely available and can also deliver big savings and other benefits. Overseas examples show that using building information modelling can reduce public housing construction costs by nearly seven per cent.
“Building information modelling can reduce how much it costs to design, build and maintain infrastructure. It also helps to identify and avoid mistakes during design and construction,” Dr Spear said.
“When applied to billion dollar projects, the savings are significant.”
With its rapid development in satellite imagery and locational data, geospatial mapping also shows big potential.
“Geospatial mapping, integrated with advanced data analytics, can be useful in monitoring and forecasting harmful events, understanding exposure to natural hazards, and managing traffic and logistics flows and routes.”
The report findings inform a recommendation by the advisory body on the use of digital technologies to improve productivity across Victorian Government infrastructure. The recommendation will be included in an updated 30-year infrastructure strategy for Victoria to be released for consultation early next year.
“We’re recommending government pilot digital technologies on its infrastructure projects, use building information modelling on major projects, and promote greater use of digital technologies in projects through procurement. This will help give businesses the confidence to invest in the digital capabilities they need to grow,” Dr Spear said.
“Meeting Victoria’s infrastructure needs as the population grows will be a big challenge in the decade ahead.
“Digital technologies can help deliver infrastructure smarter, faster, safer and cheaper.”
Read the full report here.
Image: Urbanscape/shutterstock.com
