Digital technology and infrastructure productivity

This technical report explores which digital technologies, not yet adopted at scale in Victoria, can best boost productivity in the infrastructure sector by 2030.

The report shortlists 5 technologies, assessed from a list of 25, with the biggest potential to reduce time and material costs and increase benefits:

• robotics
• advanced data analytics
• geospatial technologies
• advanced imaging
• machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI).

The report explores 5 test cases to measure the potential benefits:

• machine learning and artificial intelligence in school and kindergarten construction
• robotics in water utilities inspections and maintenance
• advanced imaging for subsurface inspections in road construction
• building information modelling for drawingless design and construction of social housing
• geospatial hazard management for flood and fire.

Key findings

Digital technologies can unlock millions in economic benefits.

Robotics have the greatest near-term and long-term impact. They also require the greatest investment to be adopted at scale.

Geospatial technologies are well developed and can deliver benefits at less cost, but also a lower overall benefit.

A new workforce of specialists will be needed to support the increased use of digital technologies across the infrastructure sector.

Options

The report identifies 5 actions for the Victorian Government to support adoption of digital technologies:

• build industry willingness and understanding of digital technology applications, benefits and procurement
• develop the required specialist workforce
• use the government’s purchasing power consistently
• support interdependent technologies to ensure impact is not held back by the slowest mover
• develop frameworks to support the safe development and adoption of technologies.