Apps

Vector Solutions’ LiveSafe risk intelligence and safety management platform helps keep property, employees and communities safe during large events and gatherings, including protests, political demonstrations and sporting events. With the platform, organizations can send broadcast messages to communicate information to employees and staff; use geofencing to provide targeted messages to the workforce based on geographic location; anonymously report incidents and suspicious behavior; increase preparedness and lower response times; and evaluate existing protocols and procedures.

Software

RefinemySite by Boschdigital collaboration platform helps commercial construction teams plan, communicate and document jobsite changes in real time. The cloud-based software uses Lean Construction Institute’s Last Planner System® as a guide to digitize traditional workflow components such as calendars with pull planning that can be viewed by task, project length and assigned team members; documentation storage; and social interactions.

Cosential added two new features to its CRM software - Cosential for Mobile to access and manage contacts and connect with colleagues about sales information and Cosential for Outlook that integrates contact and opportunity management with email.

Adeaca’s Project Business Automation combines vital project business capabilities with Microsoft's cloud ERP platform, Dynamics 365. PBA creates a structure that governs how project financials are managed for real-time visibility into project costs and clearer forecasts. PBA monitors projects and business KPIs in real time with early warning to detect and respond to issues faster.

Partnerships, Acquisitions & Integrations

MSUITE and Virtual Building Supply are partnering on an Autodesk Fabrication Parts database, APEX. The alliance will help MEP contractors address the lack of standardization or accuracy of digital fabrication content during the design phase of construction projects. APEX’s plug & play solution for sheet metal fabricators' includes a catalog of specifications, liners, stiffeners, notches, ancillaries and seams. APEX's pipework is prefab ready to optimize the prefabrication process through pre-built Service Templates, advanced Button Mapping, Ancillaries and pre-configured Reports. APEX also offers accurate and utilized materials and fittings for plumbers from the popular manufacturers.

Examinetics, which provides workplace safety compliance services, has invested in Kenzen, whose wearable device monitors workers for heat stressors on the job. Under a marketing agreement, Examinetics will introduce Kenzen technologies to its clients.

Video & Cool Stuff

Boston Dynamics kicked off 2021 with a video of its Spot Robot and friends dancing. Not to be outdone, researchers from China’s Zhejiang University, who developed the hardware for the Jueying robot dog, show the robot fending off an attack. Spot was taught how to dance, the Jueying robot figured out its defense by itself.

DroneDeploy’s 2021 State of the Industry Report(registration required) found that 45% of AEC/construction professionals say automation is important to their business and 52% say they plan to grow their drone operation spend in 2021. Looking ahead, 57% of construction respondents plan to expand beyond aerial mapping in the coming year.