The construction industry is currently confronted with significant challenges in terms of both competitiveness and sustainability. According to a recent McKinsey article, this sector has a major role to play in achieving global sustainability goals. Notably, construction directly contributes to around 40 percent of CO₂ emissions and indirectly influences 25 percent of all greenhouse-gas emissions.
To maintain their competitiveness, construction companies must adopt digitisation, invest in research and development and deliver projects that align with evolving environmental requirements.
The construction sector has a significant demand for digitalisation, as studies demonstrate it leads to increased productivity, cost savings, improved safety, sustainability, data-driven decision-making and a distinct competitive advantage.
Streamlining construction processes
Improving procurement and supply-chain management
Infusing digital technology & advanced automation
New challenges in the construction sector
Stakeholders across the entire construction value chain are facing a series of upcoming challenges driven by local and EU regulations, circularity and sustainabillity requirements, all aimed at fostering a greener and more environmentally-friendly future.
To effectively address these challenges, the construction industry must elevate its efficiency levels and streamline its supply chains and life cycle processes. The initial crucial step involves digitising these activities and processes, thereby establishing interoperability and the necessary level of transparency mandated by regulations.
By embracing open global standards, stakeholders in the construction value chain can play a pivotal role in cultivating a more connected, efficient, and productive industry. This transformation will yield benefits for all parties involved in the planning, design, construction and maintenance of buildings and infrastructure projects.
Where can GS1 standards help?
The GS1 system of standards is designed to enhance the efficiency of business processes and deliver cost savings through automation based on globally unique identification and digital information.
Businesses and regulatory bodies worldwide are increasingly collaborating to promote more sustainable economic, environmental and social practices. The circular economy model, which emphasises activities like sharing, leasing, reusing, repairing, refurbishing and recycling existing materials and products, stands as a pivotal aspect of sustainability.
The GS1 system’s three core components - Identification, Data Capture and Data Share - empower our members to establish globally unique means to identify real-world entities. This allows them to serve as the subject of electronic information that can be stored and/or transmitted by end users, effectively bridging the gap between the physical realm and the realm of electronic information.
Videos
Exploring advantages of implementing GS1 standards with BIM and Revit
Unique identifiers such as Global Trade Item Numbers (GTINs), Global Location Numbers (GLNs) and Global Individual Asset Identifiers (GIAIs) can each be used to help make the entire building lifecycle more efficient, from design through to procurement, commissioning, handover, maintenance and recycling. Watch this video from GS1 Ireland to learn more.
GS1 Italy Costruzioni
GS1 Italy is on its journey to engage with the Italian construction industry. Watch this video to see how industry stakeholders can benefit from using open, globally unique standards.
GS1 Ireland use case from the Cresme event - long version
GS1 Norway use case from the Cresme event - long version
GS1 Germany use case from the Cresme event - long version
Publications
Article
Powering digital transformation in construction and facilities management
The construction and facilities management industry faces significant challenges in becoming more sustainable, increasing safety, improving productivity and reducing costs. Check out this article from GS1 UK on how GS1 standards are shaping the future of the Facility Management industry.
Report
How the digital exchange of data supports smarter urban planning
Explore in this article by GS1 UK how GS1 standards can help the architecture, engineering, construction (AEC) and facilities management (FM) industries become more efficient, increase safety, improve productivity and lower costs.
Article
RFID: the tagging technology that is transforming construction
In this article by GS1 UK, we investigate how the use of GS1 powered RFID tags in construction continues to gain momentum and new digital initiatives are emerging all over the world as industry and regulators seek to create safer, more efficient and more sustainable supply chains.
Article
Unravelling the ‘golden thread’: data management in the built environment
In the context of building safety, the "golden thread" refers to a comprehensive and structured approach to managing building information and data throughout the entire lifecycle of a building, from design and construction through to occupancy and maintenance. Learn how unique identifiers and interoperable data can power a safer, more efficient construction industry.
Article
Building the future: the integration of Digital Twins and GS1 standards
The construction industry is undergoing a transformative shift as new technologies revolutionise how building projects are conceptualised, executed and managed. Digital Twins, one of the technologies driving this shift, are increasingly being used to inform improved decision-making across the built environment. Check out this article to explore how the integration of Digital Twins and GS1 standards is enabling unprecedented levels of insight.
Article
Revolutionising construction: the rise of BIM in the UK
Building Information Modelling (BIM) has transformed the way we plan, design, and manage construction projects. Read more to learn about the benefits coming from using Building Information Modelling (BIM).
GS1 US
For further information, contact your national GS1 Member Organisation
Want to know more about GS1 standards?
GS1 standards provide a globally recognized system for product identification, data exchange, and supply chain visibility, facilitating efficient and accurate communication among stakeholders across various industries.
Click here to learn more about the GS1 system
Identification
Capture
Share
Helpful resources and tools
GTIN Management Standard Decision-Support Tool
GTIN Management Guideline for Construction Products
Becoming an expert in standards is a substantial and demanding responsibility. That’s why our members are encouraged to reach out with any questions they may have. If you have questions regarding GS1 standards, please contact the Centre of Excellence Construction.
