As much as I hate trying to keep up with ever-evolving technology (mobile phones, computers, cars, etc.), I have come to accept the necessity. Every time I get a new cell phone it is more capable. My work efficiency and productivity have always increased whenever I have a new laptop. I imagine this will all be the case when a 5G network is up and running.
A national 5G network will no doubt benefit the construction industry once the technology is finally deployed.
As Sheryl Jackson wrote recently for the Associated General Contractors of America’s (AGC) Constructor Magazine, 5G advantages will be 10 to 100 times faster speeds, lower latency, and the ability to connect more devices. When these improvements are matched with an increasingly digital construction industry, along with the fact that 5G networks will be able to reach into more remote locations, there does not appear to be a downside.
Jackson does offer a warning of not adapting to 5G when it becomes available. Companies working without 5G equipment could have a hard time doing business in a 5G world.
Jackson sought the advice of Burcin Kaplanoglu, executive director, innovation officer, Oracle; and Keith Pennachio, chief strategy officer and executive vice president of SQUAN, as to what steps contractors should be taking to get ready for 5G:
1. BE PREPARED TO HANDLE MORE DATA
Increased speed and capacity will mean more data collected from a myriad of sources, so contractors need to plan how they will manage the data, says Kaplanoglu. “Put a plan and processes in place now to better manage data you are collecting today to build a strong foundation for the exponentially greater volume of data 5G will provide,” he suggests.
2. EVALUATE NEED FOR NEW DEVICES
Inventory the devices that will need to be upgraded to 5G compatibility in offices and in the field, recommends Kaplanoglu. The actual upgrade will be in the future, but it is a good idea to know the scope of replacement that will be necessary.
3. DON’T FALL FOR THE HYPE
Pennachio offers a word of caution about devices now advertised as 5G. “This technology is much more about speed and capacity of a network, and less about specific products,” he says. “For example, a friend who was looking at purchasing drones noticed that the specifications said it had 5G capability.” Adding the term “5G” in a product description is a marketing tactic because before the drone can operate better than other drones, there first has to be a 5G network in the location of the drone, he explains.
4. RESEARCH NETWORK AVAILABILITY AND APPLICATIONS
“There are degrees of 5G in operation in different places, but a contractor who wants to know exactly what is available in the area of a job site or company, should reach out to the major network operators in the area,” recommends Pennachio. “Each of them has specific divisions that focus on 5G and can discuss what is available.”
Contractors can also research applications that truly add value to the company’s operations, says Pennachio. “Consulting with companies that offer solutions is also an option but be sure the consultant you choose to work with is neutral,” he says. Consultants who are not tied to one network provider will focus on your company’s needs to find the best solution; he adds.
According to Jackson, Version and AT&T started advertising the launch of their 5G networks in 2019 with initial access located in a few major cities. The COVID-19 pandemic has slowed down the continued rollout but carriers are still moving forward focusing on large urban areas, then moving on to smaller cities and suburbs then eventually into more rural areas.
I'd better start looking for a new phone and a new laptop.
