Emerging trends in infrastructure: Canadian insights

Demand for new or renewed infrastructure will outpace our ability to build it, without increasingly innovating how we do things and turning to cutting-edge technologies to keep pace.

Tools like virtual and augmented reality and digital twins are proving to be key in helping owners and builders envision, track, and analyze their projects throughout development. The expectation is generative artificial intelligence will play an increasing role in all aspects of the asset lifecycle enabling better decision making and outcomes. Currently, censors and data gathering systems, digital dashboards, and AI-enabled cameras are driving operational improvements; while advances in modular construction, 3D printing, drones, and automated equipment are helping infrastructure stakeholders bring their visions to life faster.

Today’s infrastructure is increasingly being designed, built, monitored, and maintained with innovative processes and new and emerging technologies. As this continues, we can expect the industry to address Canada’s infrastructure gaps with greater speed, efficiency, and cost-efficiencies.