QR Code in Construction: 2024 Comprehensive Guide for Enhancing Efficiency

Updated by Nazanin Ghodsian, 08/27/2024

 

Even in difficult times like the epidemic, QR codes are still relevant in the building business. They are an invaluable tool in the field because of their effectiveness in connecting people to crucial information.

QR codes were first developed in 1994 to support a Japanese auto parts firm, but they have already expanded far beyond that initial use. The technology has spread significantly despite early difficulties with QR code reader apps prior to devices integrating this function.

QR codes have shown to be very helpful in the construction sector. In an industry that has always been wary of technology, they stand out. Construction companies have been using QR codes since 2012 for a variety of purposes, such as marketing and tracking of tools and materials.

 

What are QR Codes

While QR codes are often associated with marketing, their origins may be traced back to the Japanese automotive sector, where they were developed over three decades ago to track parts during the vehicle assembly process.

The concept behind QR codes was to develop a more sophisticated and effective alternative to standard barcodes, one that could store more data, be readable even in damaged conditions, and be more easily scanned at any size from any angle.

The free code generator on your phone or the internet uses an open-source QR code standard to encode data (URL, text, contact information, or any other information) and create a QR code.

Though QR codes sometimes hold only a small amount of information (such as a web link), it’s important to remember that they can hold considerably more data, which they can make available even when read offline.

 

How QR Code in Construction Industry Work

QR codes can be used to link a variety of activities. The primary problem with QR code in construction sector is their lack of widespread usage. Many people still view this technology as exotic and unfamiliar.

The operation of QR code patterns is delightfully simple, despite their seemingly complicated appearance. QR codes are essentially data carriers; by scanning one with a smartphone, tablet, or special QR code reader, you may access the information inside digitally.

The steps involved are simple: scanning, decoding, and action. It just takes a few seconds to complete. The first step is to scan a QR code by taking a picture of it with your device’s camera. Subsequently, the integrated scanning application on your gadget interprets the pattern of the code, converting it into legible data, or decoded data.

Finally, your device performs the necessary action when the data has been extracted. For instance, a BobCat skid steer operator can quickly access a free operator training video by scanning a QR code either on the vehicle or on the cover of its operation and maintenance manuals.

The process involves you scanning the code, after which the scanning app on your device decodes the data on it and directs you to the appropriate BobCat training video. You may be prompted to save contact information, visit a website, or do other activities based on the retrieved data.

Either way, QR code in construction provide an easy and rapid way to link digital and physical things with their data stored online, opening up a variety of uses across multiple industries.

 

Applications of QR Code in Construction

We’ll examine five key areas of construction operations where QR codes can assist in optimizing workflows and boost productivity, even while the variety of uses for QR code in construction continues to expand.

 

Project Management

Any construction project that is completed typically indicates that all the other topics discussed here, such as quality control and information access, were also effectively managed.

The fact that QR codes may streamline procedures in each of them is evidence of their adaptability, cost, and simplicity. QR code in construction can be used in a variety of ways to track project progress for more specialized project management duties.

When a portion of the construction is finished, for instance, the site engineer submitting an inspection request can create a special QR code that the quality engineer can use to start the appropriate inspection procedure.

After the inspection, the database of the construction project management software is updated, and in this particular case, the digital model created with Building Information Modeling (BIM) software is compared with the as-built data.

In this manner, as activities are finished and project milestones are met, project managers and construction teams may keep an eye on developments. Of course, there are a lot of different project management applications where the QR code in construction helps expedite procedures; one of the main ones is information access.

 

Information Access

This is the construction industry’s most comprehensive use of QR codes. Important information, like operation manuals, safety and emergency protocols, project drawings and documentation, and more, can be easily and quickly accessed with the help of the QR code in construction.

QR code in construction enables workers and project stakeholders to quickly access vital information, sometimes even life-saving, such as emergency lowering procedures for scissor lifts, by placing them on documents, equipment, or specific locations on a construction site.

There are endless instances of how QR code in construction can be used for quick access to information on building sites because they can be printed on any material, attached to any surface or item, or simply shown digitally.

For example, construction crews can quickly obtain the most recent design modifications and building instructions by scanning a QR code on a blueprint, guaranteeing that their work adheres to approved project amendments.

Let’s return to quality control, noting the plethora of ways that QR codes facilitate quick and simple access to internet content, both current and emerging.

 

Quality Control

High-quality, well-maintained worker tools and equipment are essential. Local building codes and project specifications should be followed when selecting building materials, and finished projects must adhere to exacting quality standards.

With the help of QR code in construction, quality control procedures may be made much more efficient as contractors can keep track of, monitor, and perform necessary inspections on tools, materials, and completed projects.

Another example is the use of QR codes on materials, which allow employees to quickly confirm that the supplies brought to the job site adhere to quality standards and project specifications.

We’ll discuss how QR code in construction can aid asset management, specifically about making sure that tools and equipment are routinely examined and well-maintained.

 

Asset Management

When QR codes and cloud software are combined for asset management, it opens up a world of functionality similar to information access, allowing you to track the location, usage, and maintenance status of your tools, equipment, and other construction assets.

For example, when QR codes are affixed to assets and connected to the database of the tracking program, the following features are activated.

We’ll focus on just two of the QR code-enabled features that construction businesses may use to reduce theft from the outside and inside, as well as careless treatment of their tools, equipment, and other assets because there isn’t enough space to discuss them all.

First of all, QR code in construction make it possible to build up an automated system for workers to check in and out of assets automatically by scanning one or more of them, delegating responsibility for them, and then checking them back in.

Because asset users are aware that the program is tracking them, worker responsibility is immediately increased, and instances of loss, theft, careless use, and bad maintenance are decreased.

Second, the tracking software automatically uses the GPS feature of the device to determine the asset’s location when a QR code asset tag is scanned with a smartphone or tablet, freeing up space for other security measures.

A QR code-based asset tracking and management system may, all things considered, expedite practically every area of asset management, including the tracking of spare parts and other inventory, as we will see in a moment.

 

Inventory Management

Recall that the original purpose of QR codes was to track automobile parts while they were being manufactured. The same idea holds for tracking materials and assets, as demonstrated by the examples.

Naturally, this also includes keeping track of the stock levels of accessories, replacement parts, and other consumables needed for effective building projects.

Additional inventory management options, such as automatically receiving low-quantity notifications, become available as a result of this function, enabling you to order and replenish goods on time.

Because QR code in construction may connect any physical object to its digital data, a single software application can fulfill several tasks and serve as an all-in-one asset, maintenance, material, and inventory tracking solution.

 

Why QR Codes are a Natural Fit for the Construction Industry

The sectors with the most scattered field workers can benefit most from QR codes. Among them is undoubtedly the construction business. The majority of the work done by construction companies is done on various job sites. Employees on the job site do not always have easy access to laptops or Wi-Fi. QR codes and smartphones make a suitable substitute.

Worker access to and recording of data required for job performance is made dependable with QR code in construction sites. Anything on the construction site, be it an employee, an asset, or a job site area, can be linked to its record in the central database via a QR code. Job site technicians can access and update object information on their mobile devices by using a smartphone to scan a QR code.

Building companies can establish real-time communication between the office and job sites with the use of QR code in construction. Everybody can access the same real-time data. Employees on the job site use a smartphone app and QR code scanning to access and update data. Through a web dashboard for cloud software, employees of the company can access the same information on office computers.

Workers on construction sites have a lot of paperwork to fill out. Smartphones and QR codes are also helpful for this work. A field employee can use his smartphone to scan a QR code and retrieve a mobile form in place of filling out paper forms, which are tedious and easily misplaced or damaged. a mobile application on his phone. A completed mobile form is instantaneously transmitted from a mobile app to the cloud program, generating enduring digital documentation.

In general, QR codes benefit construction companies by increasing productivity, improving safety on the job site, and helping them finish projects on schedule and under budget.

 

Benefits of QR Code in Construction Industry

Construction companies can benefit from QR Codes in many ways at a very low cost. By utilizing QR codes, construction organizations can expedite their workflow and furnish the job site technicians with essential information. The following are some key benefits of utilizing QR code in construction:

 

QR Codes Provide Real-Time Data Access

To maintain productivity, safety, and smooth operations, construction workers require access to a variety of information sources on the working site. Plans, drawings, handbooks for construction equipment, safety guidelines, equipment specification sheets, and more can all be included in the information. Accessing the necessary data is quick and simple with the use of a QR code in construction.

Using a smartphone to scan a QR code retrieves all necessary information from the central database. Employees on the job site can easily evaluate the information by using the mobile app that scans QR codes to read it.

 

QR Code in Construction Allow for Real-Time Data Updates

Having the ability to update data instantly is crucial for businesses with mobile workforces. Mobile workers are constantly on the go or in the field. It is not a productive alternative to take handwritten notes and then type them onto a computer later.

Field personnel have easy access to and updating capabilities for any kind of data via mobile phones and QR code in construction. A field report, completed checklists, safety audit forms, equipment servicing requests, equipment movement information, and many other items could be included. All team members get access to information as soon as it is updated in the central cloud database.

QR code in construction facilitate real-time cooperation, which guarantees smooth coordination, prompt decision-making, and effective work management. It lowers errors and job delays while increasing the productivity of field teams.

 

QR Codes Help to Increase Job Site Safety

QR code in construction companies help increase job site safety in several ways. You may make sure that only workers with the appropriate certifications have access to the tool or equipment by using QR codes for asset check-out. Before being permitted to operate heavy construction machinery, an employee must scan a QR code on the machinery to access safety regulations and sign off on them.

By attaching a QR code to the hard hats of construction workers, managers may obtain personnel credentials with ease. This guarantees that only qualified people can perform the task. Construction companies may keep track of visitors and ensure that they stay within defined zones by using a visitor induction program based on QR codes.

In summary, QR code in construction facilitate the simplification of safety protocols. You can be certain that you will always have digital documents demonstrating your adherence to the guidelines.

 

QR Codes Streamline Construction Site Paperwork

The construction sector is heavily controlled. Employees on the job site frequently fill out numerous documents that are required for compliance. These forms can be for anything from vehicle DVIR forms to equipment inspection reports to safety audits. There are also field requests and reports, visitor and contractor induction papers, daily records, and more.

Mobile phones and QR code in construction let you handle all of this paperwork quickly and effectively. Field technicians can access and complete a form on their mobile device (a smartphone or tablet) by scanning a QR code. Forms can be submitted to back-end cloud software once they are filled out.

All completed forms have digital records that are readily searchable, simply arranged, and available whenever needed. You may be certain that the QR code-based system will enable you to quickly locate the necessary records at all times.

 

3 Real-Life Use Cases of QR Code in Construction Sites

Here are a few real-life examples of businesses using QR Code in the construction industry:

 

1. NYC uses QR Codes for Work Permits

NYC started including QR Code in construction permits as early as 2011. Users can scan the QR Codes on the building permit to view information such as the type of construction being done and the names of the property owners.

It also enables users to file complaints via the official Department of Buildings website regarding noise, safety, and infractions.

 

2. Longs Peak Hospital in Colorado Leveraged QR Codes for Operational Procedures

During its building phase, Longs Peak Hospital in Colorado made extensive use of QR Code in construction. On door frames and individual MEP/equipment items, QR Codes were applied. It would give the user details on every piece of equipment in a specific room after scanning.

The building site’s frames and equipment became easily identifiable when QR Codes were installed on them. Workers and contractors would input any updates, warranties, quality control, or maintenance issues by scanning the QR Code in construction. Putting this data into a cloud database made updates easier and more frequent, allowing for quick action.

 

3.  Ssangyong E&C used QR Code in Construction Sites for Easy Communication

At the Dubai Royal Atlantis Resort and Residence, Ssangyong Engineering and Construction installed QR Codes so that workers could monitor the status of the project in real-time.

The QR Codes also matched their digital platform for construction management. Workers read QR Code in construction site tags that were positioned at various buildings. They were able to take and share images, comment on inspection findings, notify management of work in progress, and view cloud data as a result.

 

How to Implement QR Code in Construction

Naturally, the individual use case for your firm will determine the best way to implement QR code in construction. Sometimes all that is required to link a QR code (printed, digital, labeled, or tagged) to web content is to create the code itself and link it to the online content.

The implementation of a QR code-based system differs, though, whether tracking software is used for further administration capabilities and when QR codes are used for tracking and controlling tangible goods.

Let’s see how QR-coding functions in these situations.

 

Choose a QR Code Asset Tag Supplier

You can create, print, and attach QR code in construction to assets and inventory on your own, but to use the software’s administration functions and turn them into data collection tools, you’ll still need the software.

Choosing a monitoring software supplier that offers personalized QR code asset tags—which you can print yourself—is the best course of action.

In this manner, all system components—QR codes, software, and in-app scanners—would work flawlessly together, and all procedures related to maintaining an effective tracking system would be made simpler and less expensive.

Combining QR codes with user-friendly software, an integrated scanning app, and the potent features we outlined—all from a single source—leads to a very economical, simple-to-install, and intuitive system with integrated customer service.

Most significantly, it will be easy to use even for non-techies on your team, meaning that user onboarding and system rollout will be streamlined.

In summary, selecting the appropriate tracking software (provider) that manages the entire process of creating and delivering durable QR code asset tags as well as offering support, training, and upgrades is the first step in deploying QR codes (for asset tracking).

 

Create a Plan to Onboard Your Team

Creating a QR code-based system indeed necessitates a carefully considered team onboarding strategy. Determine other users’ roles and the procedures they should follow after first designating key persons (administrators) who will utilize the system.

This should be used as the foundation for creating various templates for documents that will be accessible through the scanning of a QR code asset tag, such as inspection reports, maintenance schedules, work assignments, safety checklists, equipment manuals, etc.

The software’s database contains an asset information page that links to and accesses all of these documents, giving administrators the ability to monitor a variety of particular data points, including the location, use, and upkeep of assets.

Naturally, depending on their intended usage, some of these instructions, guidelines, and documents can have their own QR codes printed on them and affixed to particular areas. Your crew can be taught and onboarded once the QR code in construction is affixed to tracked products and connected to initial asset data in the software’s database.

 

Train Your Team on How to Use the QR Code in Construction

Training your staff includes showing them how tracking software operates and outlining best practices, such as correct scanning techniques, data entry, and troubleshooting frequent issues. Using QR code in construction is simple—scan and get details.

The software’s simplicity and convenience of use, including system setup, deployment, training needs, and user assistance, should therefore be given top priority.

Of course, your software supplier should also make sure that users have access to an excellent help center with FAQs, in-depth articles, and video lessons, as well as direct and practical support (email, chat, phone).

Good training will enable your employees to adopt QR code in construction, simplifying the system’s setup and enhancing the data-driven, efficient running of your business.

 

Rules to Remember when Using QR Code in Construction

• Start Small. Begin by piloting the QR code in construction usage on a specific project or with a particular set of documents. This allows for gradual adoption and minimizes resistance to change.
• Work Towards Standardizing Data formats and document templates across projects. This will make it easier to generate QR codes consistently.
• Link your QR Code to a Mobile-Optimized Website not Simply a Regular Webpage. The aim is to enhance the user experience and they’ll be frustrated if it does not link to a site that is optimized for mobile browsing. If the user experience is pleasant prospects are more likely to return to your site, increasing loyalty and lead generation.
• Conduct A/B Split Tests with your QR Code Landing Pages. Figure out which one works best and make sure it has appropriate calls to action which will help with data capture and push prospects further down the buying cycle.
• Offer something of Value. There should be a valid reason why prospects should take the trouble to scan your QR code so include something extra such as a promotional code, a webcast on how to best use your product, or a ticket to an event such as Ecobuild where potential clients can interact with you in person.
• Savvy Marketing is about Measurement, Analytics, and Metrics. Using QR code in construction is no different and you should still use measurement software such as Google Analytics to track the success of your QR campaign. See which building sites or product ads received the most scans and figure out why so that you can improve your other campaigns.
• Test your QR Code on various phones, and network providers and with various QR code readers as well as test them on different materials such as construction signs, in printed magazines, or on the sides of your company vehicles. It would be a waste of time and effort if you started a campaign using a code that was wrongly generated and cannot be scanned.

Customers and clients may need some time to become used to the “scanning” behavior associated with QR codes because they are still a relatively new technology, but it is always better to be ahead of the curve.

They have a wide range of possible applications in the construction sector, and it’s fascinating to watch how technology develops to improve the experience. Perhaps in the coming months, a new generation of bar codes will be developed, enabling, for example, an augmented reality picture of your building.

 

Best QR Code Inventory Management Software

The main characteristics and advantages of our top 5 picks for QR-code inventory systems are listed here. For tracking assets and work orders, the majority have barcode software, QR code APIs, or QR code generators.

 

1. Sortly, End-to-end QR-based Solution for Small and Mid-sized Businesses

Pros

• Integration with other software like Quickbooks, Zapier, Dropbox, etc., helps you manage additional functionalities.
• Alerts and reminders make it easy to know when stocks are out and when to reorder.
• Sharing and collaboration while working remotely are made easier with its mobile application.

Cons

• No live chat support or phone support.

Launched in 2013, Sortly is an inventory management solution designed to give companies of all sizes an easy and effective way to manage their inventory.

It provides a mobile-friendly barcode inventory solution that makes inventory and asset management simple. Additionally, Sortly is adaptable and flexible, meeting the unique requirements of many sectors.

 

2. GoCodes, Best Asset and Inventory Management Solution in One Place

Pros

• Automated email alerts when you reach the minimum stock threshold.
• User-friendly interface that helps you to track items and sort assets as per need.
• QR tags assist you in tracking asset location easily.
• Availability of browser and mobile applications for multiple platforms (Android, iOS, Windows, Mac, and Linux).

Cons

• The Android version doesn’t have as many features as the iPhone application.

GoCodes is an all-in-one solution that makes asset monitoring simple and hassle-free by doing away with the need to buy hardware and install software.

With the ability to view all of your assets around the clock, you can feel completely at ease. To check products in and out in real-time, just use your smartphone to scan the proprietary QR code labels.

On the go, you can view, delete, or update records using a computer or a smartphone. You will also constantly be aware of your stock and assets thanks to its automated alerts for upcoming appointments, low inventory, and due dates.

 

3. EZOfficeInventory, Best-in-class & Budget-Friendly Inventory Management Software

Pros

• Easy to use and customizable.
• Flexible pricing plans where you can choose the number of assets.
• Real-time tracking of the stocks to avoid stockouts.
• Effortless asset discovery, scanning, and tracking, even via mobile phone.

Cons

• Lacks push notifications on the mobile app, which can enhance the usability of the tool on smart devices.

Your reliable asset-tracking partner, EZOfficeInventory, will help you navigate the highs and lows of asset management with ease. It records your assets from beginning to end, just like a trustworthy GPS, enabling you to make wise purchases, monitor service tickets, and handle vendors like an experienced pro.

With personalized labels and barcode scanners, you can personalize the experience and take advantage of RFID integration’s rapid processing times.

You can see your assets’ depreciation clearly with EZOfficeInventory, and you can get analytical reports that will help you make wise decisions. Additionally, everything about your assets is simplified like a well-oiled machine thanks to the interface with Zendesk and work order management.

Make the experience uniquely yours by adding custom fields and notifications that are tailored to your exact requirements!

 

4. ToolSense, the Most Versatile Inventory Management System

Pros

• Real-time inventory tracking is useful for getting alerts on stockouts.
• Great at streamlining administrative communication for maintenance.
• User-friendly navigation and list sorting.
• Reduce human errors and save time and effort with the workflow automation feature.

Cons

• The backend loading speed is slow and could be improved.

Three computer science engineering students founded ToolSense in 2017 as part of a project to identify a solution for equipment management and maintenance. Initially, they created an IoT and software solution for centralized machinery control and effective process management.

Their objective is to revolutionize the global economy due to the overwhelming demand for the answer.

 

5 Facility Maintenance Challenges Solved by QR Code in Construction

The major goal of maintenance is to prevent unanticipated repairs and damage management, yet some issues come with maintaining a facility. “Maintain” means “to keep existing (as of repair, efficiency, or validity): preserve from failure or decline,” according to the Merriam-Webster dictionary. They continue by defining “maintenance” as “the upkeep of equipment or property.” This takes us to the first difficulty.

 

1. Scheduling

While scheduling is never easy, keeping up with maintenance jobs when they are tracked manually is almost impossible. Just one or two missed maintenance activities can quickly escalate into an emergency if they are scheduled for once a month or once every few months. Changes in the HVAC filters are a great example here.

In the heat of summer, when the air conditioner is working nonstop, forgetting to change the filters might cause the system to malfunction or break down completely. You can access digital checklists by scanning QR codes, which allow everyone to see what has been accomplished and what still needs to be done.

 

2. Controlling Costs

The fact that maintenance is less expensive than replacement or repair is probably already known to you. If something breaks before you can service it, you run the risk of additional downtime or collateral harm.

These costs can mount up rapidly, and you need to find every opportunity to save money in this era of tight budgets. It is simple to check a maintenance schedule and add service notes for previous or upcoming maintenance operations when QR code in construction is used to manage maintenance schedules.

 

3. Communication

One of the most important facility maintenance issues you may encounter is communication. When there is a communication breakdown, tasks are not completed, team members duplicate their efforts, and it is unclear who is in charge of what. Communication is facilitated via QR codes. You can quickly see which activities were completed, by whom, and when with a glance.

For any queries or issues that may arise, you and your group can also leave notes and pictures. In this manner, you can converse without being concerned about forgetting. Furthermore, people can converse with one another through a QR code in construction even if they are not physically present in the same place.

 

4. Property Damage

This is one of those facility maintenance issues that falls under the category of cost and communication control. The reason for this is that, in many situations, effective communication can help prevent property damage, and naturally, preventing damage translates into saving money.

For example, let’s say Employee A discovers a plumbing leak but lacks the tools or knowledge to fix it, so he covers it with a bucket, posts a wet floor sign, and goes about his business. If he forgets to mention this, you could end up with a lot of water damage quickly. Nevertheless, by flagging the leak and providing a description and photos via a QR code in construction, your on-site plumber can find the leak and fix it without causing additional damage.

 

5. Time Management

How long does it take your team to complete specific tasks? You most likely have a good idea, but what if you could be more specific? If you were aware that you needed to devote more or less time to work, would your approach to certain tasks change?

Your crew records the time spent entering and leaving each location using a QR code in construction such as Scan4Clean, allowing you to plan people and jobs more effectively.  Your largest facility maintenance problems might vanish if your team uses QR code in construction.

 

Conclusion

QR code in construction is growing more and more significant as a result of the rise of smartphones and tablets throughout the last ten to fifteen years. Since almost every worker on a construction site currently has a mobile device, implementing QR codes on construction sites doesn’t take much labor.

Benefits are felt right away. The construction process is quickly raised to a higher standard, particularly when QR technology is used in conjunction with contemporary, sophisticated construction software.

QR technology is easy to use and reasonably priced. QR code in construction may always be used to get current information, such as open tickets, from anywhere, unlike conventional boards and logbooks.

Additionally, the code is incredibly error-resistant and remains readable even in the event of damage, dim lighting, etc. The QR code itself is physically affixed to a surface and doesn’t need any electricity, upkeep, or technological infrastructure. However, the link points to stored data that can be updated and made available to everyone.

So, QR technology is a simple and affordable place to start if you want to maintain and streamline your business in the long run.

 

What Role do QR Codes Play in Asset and Inventory Management?

• Answer: Real-time tracking of tools, equipment, and supplies is made possible by QR codes, which helps employees manage assets effectively, cut down on losses, and preserve operational performance.

Why are QR Codes a Natural Fit for the Construction Industry?

• Answer: By bridging the gap between field workers and office staff and facilitating simple data access and updates across dispersed task sites, QR codes increase productivity and project efficiency.

 

Resources:

JanitorialManager | GoCodes | EvaCheckin | Delivr. | PauleyCreative | Beaconstac | Taliho | Small Business Inventory Management | Planradar | Fluix | Procore | Pageloot | Scanova | QRgateway | Founderjar

For the pictures: Freepik