Study of Foreman-Level Task Automation in the US Construction Industry

Three aspects of the effects of computers on the work of construction foremen were investigated: time saved, foremen?s reactions to and experiences with task automation, and trends in foreman-level task automation. Over 179 foremen employed by six companies utilizing foreman-level task automation were surveyed as part of this research effort. Of the 179 foremen who responded, fifty-four percent use a computer at work. Based on the responses, the average amount of time saved per day due to computer use was 14 minutes. In addition, a computer-using foreman spends 10% more time supervising than his noncomputer using counterpart. This may be assumed to represent a significant increase in potential production by the foreman and his crew.