EDITORIAL

A Paradigm Shift

Plethora of events-Seminars, Workshops, Deminars, National and International Conferences- happening across the country indicating the slow recovery of construction industry that went into a somnambulist state in the recent past. The marching ahead of our construction industry without being stopped is a necessity for the development of India. In spite of serious problems such as labour shortage, non availability of cash flow, spiralling material costs, all kinds of negativisms, there have been many dramatic changes in terms of the structures that are being built all around.

There also is a paradigm shift in our thinking in respect of using various tools, equipments and new generation materials. In today's context, modern tools and equipments have not only allowed us to overcome the usual mumble at a project site but have helped the industry to increase the overall speed, productivity and timely completion. Without many of today's modern tools and equipments, it is even doubtful whether most projects that have been taken up in recent years could be easily completed.

Innovations and new trends on the anvil are also being well received and implemented. One of the most promising and interesting facets of the eco-friendly approach is Biomimicry, which uses natural and biological patterns as inspirations for architectural and engineering designs. These new developments point toward an increasing focus on incorporating natural elements, not only in the facades of new buildings, but also in their interiors. Cooling and ventilation systems in particular will be increasingly designed taking a prompt from Mother Nature.

Modular Design and Precast Technology are among other trends that show promise in the construction industry. There are many benefits to such a construction approach. In addition to the shorter production cycle, quality and safety, the enhanced sustainability is most compelling. The use of eco-friendly materials, self sustaining energy options, clean design lines also make these modular structures ideally suited to the changing demands of the market. While a number of construction principles will continue to remain in practice well into the future, there is a clear shift toward more eco-friendly and energy efficient structures.

Another most significant trend associated with the construction industry is the increased use of latest software and information Technology related gadgets. Advanced Project Management Methods and Project Monitoring Techniques, have not only helped in constructing sound structures and engineering marvels but also have shown control the cost.

With the initiation of new values like corporate social responsibility and sustainability, a new concept of social accountability is slowly evolving.  As Mr. Srinivasan observes "Corporate strategies focusing exclusively on profitability may not be sufficient for the future. For a more sustained effectiveness in this domain we have to go beyond or rather get behind the conventional economic parameters like profit-maximization. We have to focus more on the causative factors which lead to these economic goals like for example, Technology, Productivity, Quality, Customer-Service, Innovation or Knowledge. These are the key-factors of the Economic Bottom line."

In this issue of Built Expressions, we have tried to focus on commonly used construction equipments to bring in the awareness about the crucial role that mechanisation plays in preserving the environment.

Enjoy reading Built Expressions as usual.

Ajit Sabnis