Construction and technology—two worlds that didn’t always mix—are now building something remarkable together. From drones to AI, the tools transforming the job site are reshaping how architects and engineers manage their projects.

If you're still stuck with clipboards, spreadsheets, or email chains, it might be time to explore the world of ConTech.

What is ConTech?

ConTech, short for Construction Technology, refers to the use of technology in the construction industry to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance safety throughout the construction process. It encompasses a range of tools, software, and techniques applied from planning and design to construction and project management.

In other words, it’s not just about shiny gadgets. It’s about making the construction process smarter—for everyone involved.

Examples of ConTech

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to ConTech. Different technologies serve different stakeholders—architects, engineers, contractors, owners—and they show up at various stages of a project. 

Here are some key categories, how they work, and what they mean for architects in particular:

1. Submittal review software

Reviewing submittals is a critical task for design teams—but also a time-consuming one. Sorting through hundreds of product data sheets and shop drawings manually leaves room for human error and delays.

That’s where AI-powered tools like Part3’s Submittal Assistant come in. By uploading project specifications, architects can automatically generate a detailed submittal log in minutes. The AI identifies every required submittal based on your specification and organizes it for review—so you don’t miss anything.

Bonus: Want to try AI-powered submittal tools without committing to the full platform? Try our FREE Submittal Log Tool — no sign-up required. It’s a lighter version of the full Submittal Assistant. Just upload your spec manual and get a clean, accurate submittal log in minutes.

2. Drones and site monitoring

Drones are no longer just for aerial glamour shots. They’re now integral to construction progress tracking and remote inspections.

For architects, drones can offer up-to-date visual context without stepping on-site. Want to confirm that the window placement matches the drawings? A drone flyover with annotated imagery might be faster (and safer) than a site visit.

Used during: Construction and field observation
Used by: GCs, site supervisors, and architects (often reviewing footage)

3. Augmented Reality (AR) for design validation

AR lets architects overlay digital models onto real-world conditions using tablets or smart glasses. It’s incredibly useful during pre-construction walkthroughs, especially for identifying design conflicts or explaining spatial layouts to clients.

Imagine being able to walk a site and see exactly where that double-height atrium will sit—before a single beam is placed.

Used during: Design presentations, pre-construction, client walkthroughs
Popular tools: Trimble SiteVision, DAQRI, Fologram

4. Virtual Reality (VR) for immersive design reviews

VR allows architects and engineers to walk clients through full-scale virtual models of their buildings before construction begins. Instead of reviewing flat drawings or even 3D renderings, clients can experience a project spatially—helping reduce change orders down the road.

For architects, VR improves client communication, supports design validation, and fosters better buy-in during schematic design and design development.

Used during: Design and client presentations
Popular tools: Enscape, IrisVR, Twinmotion

7. Robotics on the jobsite

While robotics are often associated with construction automation for contractors (think: bricklaying or rebar tying), there’s a growing role for architects and engineers in specifying workflows that take robotics into account.

Robotic layout tools, for example, help ensure dimensional accuracy during site work. When tied to BIM, they allow for rapid verification of field conditions—giving architects confidence that the built work matches the design intent.

Used during: Construction and quality assurance
Popular tools: Dusty Robotics, Hilti Jaibot

8. Field reporting software

Creating field reports used to mean snapping photos on your phone, scribbling notes, heading back to the office, uploading everything, and wrestling to assemble it into a Word doc. Field reporting software has changed that.

With tools like Part3, you can take photos, record observations, and issue polished reports—all while still on-site. It speeds up documentation and ensures everyone (client, contractor, consultant) gets the same info, instantly.

Bonus: With digital distribution, architects can avoid the version-control chaos that comes from attaching the “wrong” report to an email chain.

9. Wearable technology for safety and data tracking

Architects don’t always think of safety tech as part of their world—but if you’re signing off on site inspections, wearable technology matters.

Smart hardhats and vests equipped with sensors can monitor worker fatigue, fall detection, or location tracking. For design teams working with liability concerns or complex phasing plans, having access to safety data can help during CA documentation and claims resolution.

Used during: Construction oversight
Popular tools: Spot-r by Triax, SmartCap, WakeCap

10. Building automation and smart systems

Architects are often responsible for coordinating with consultants on building performance. Building automation systems (BAS) control HVAC, lighting, shading, and energy monitoring—key pieces that contribute to sustainability goals and certifications like LEED.

While not a field tool per se, automation systems influence design decisions that impact occupant comfort, energy modeling, and building codes. As architects push for smarter buildings, understanding ConTech on the backend becomes part of design excellence.

Used during: Design coordination, sustainability planning
Popular tools: Honeywell, Johnson Controls, Schneider Electric EcoStruxure

11. Building Information Modeling (BIM)

BIM is the OG of ConTech. It’s a digital representation of a building’s physical and functional characteristics—and it’s a lifesaver when it comes to coordination.

Architects and contractors use BIM to visualize spatial relationships, catch clashes between systems, and collaborate with engineers and consultants. It’s not just about 3D models; it’s about smarter decision-making from concept to construction.

Used during: Design development through to construction administration
Popular tools: Autodesk Revit, ArchiCAD, Vectorworks

12. Prefabrication and modular construction

Prefab isn’t just a contractor concern—architects are increasingly designing with modular construction in mind. This includes planning for factory-assembled wall panels, MEP racks, or entire bathroom pods.

When properly coordinated, prefab can reduce on-site labor, increase quality, and compress schedules. But it requires tight design control, clear tolerances, and early integration with consultants and builders—making ConTech tools essential for success.

Used during: Design development, construction documentation
Popular tools: Revit + StrucSoft MWF, Plant Prefab

13. Predictive analytics for risk mitigation

Predictive analytics tools crunch historical data to better understand “lessons learned” and forecast project risks—like which RFI might lead to delays or which change orders are likely to escalate.

Architects can use this data during the CA phase to prioritize tasks, streamline approvals, or flag contractor-side bottlenecks. While more common in large firms or integrated project delivery (IPD) settings, this tech is making its way into standard practice.

Used during: Construction administration, project management
Popular tools: Procore Predictive Insights, Oracle Aconex, Autodesk Construction Cloud AI 

What is the difference between ConTech and PropTech?

ConTech (Construction Technology) refers to technologies used during the design and construction process to improve how buildings are planned, designed, built, and managed during construction. PropTech (Property Technology) refers to technologies used in the real estate sector to buy, sell, lease, and manage completed properties.

Although both operate in the built environment, the key difference lies in the phase they support: ConTech is focused on the construction process, while PropTech is focused on property ownership and management after construction is complete.

To put it simply: ConTech builds the building. PropTech manages the property.

Breakdown:

• ConTech helps architects, engineers, and contractors plan and build more efficiently. Think BIM, submittal review tools, drones, and site inspection software.

• PropTech helps developers, landlords, brokers, and tenants manage properties. Think virtual tours, lease management, and tenant experience platforms.

If you’re involved in design or construction, you’re likely using—or will benefit from—ConTech tools. If you’re managing the property after handover, that’s where PropTech comes in.

How to decide which ConTech is right for your firm

Not every tool is right for every architect—and that’s okay. Here are a few ways to figure out which ConTech fits your firm’s goals:

1. Map your bottlenecks

Where do you lose the most time? Submittals? Field reports? BIM coordination? Start there.

If submittals are a pain, explore AI-driven tools. If field reporting takes too long, look for mobile-friendly solutions that can be used on-site.

2. Think about your team size

Smaller firms might benefit from all-in-one platforms that handle multiple tasks. Larger teams may want tools that integrate with existing systems like Procore or Autodesk.

3. Consider client expectations

Do your clients expect photo-rich field reports? Fast submittal responses? Use tech to exceed—not just meet—those expectations.

4. Try before you buy

Many tools offer free versions or trial access, which can be a low-risk way to explore how they fit into your team's workflow. Taking advantage of these can help you test real-world scenarios before committing to a broader rollout.

ConTech isn’t just for contractors (anymore)

For years, construction tech felt like it was built for GCs, not architects. But today, more tools are designed to support your workflow—helping you protect design intent, reduce manual tasks, and keep your team looking sharp.

If you’re exploring ConTech for your firm, Part3 is built specifically for architects working in the construction phase.

Book a demo to see how it can streamline your submittals, field reports, and more.