Construction runs on decisions, and better data helps to make better decisions.

When field measurements, schedules, costs and submittals data converge, managerial confidence is strengthened. Foremen spot risks early, and managers spot problems before they occur. Real-time telemetry from equipment, automated progress capture and clean cost codes transform guesswork into measurable productivity. The payoff is fewer delays, tighter change control, safer sites and predictable closeout—turning data into days saved and margins protected.

Wipfli, a national accounting and business consulting firm, published a 2025 State of Technology in Construction report, which surveyed 308 executives. It shows there is an appetite for technology and the data it yields.

While 82% say they have an artificial intelligence (A.I.) strategy, most applications remain basic and siloed. Cybersecurity investment is also rising (73% plan to spend more this year), even as 80% report a breach in the past 12 months.

The report’s bright spots hint at where they can lead: 66% of the smallest firms now have an A.I. strategy, 43% report full integration with advanced tech and one-third achieve real-time, automated decision-making. Larger firms are ahead in analytics and security, but even among companies over $250 million in revenue, 12% still rely mostly on manual reporting. Nearly half (47%) of these big players say real-time insights drive automated actions, compared with just 17% of firms under $50 million— proof that integration scales value.

What does this mean for projects and job site management?

First, data discipline beats new gadgets. Standardize naming conventions and cost codes, capture installation, test and startup data at the point of work, and publish it to the project’s common data environment. Second, connecting temporary power, panels and feeders to simple internet of things metering allows foremen and project managers to see data streams such as load, runtime and anomalies in real time. Third, integrating cybersecurity into every connected device and workflow, from mobile forms to job site networks, safeguards the firm from being a point of vulnerability for any compromises or cyberattacks. Finally, if an electrical contractor can position A.I. so it provides automated submittal checks, takeoff/estimating assistance, schedule-risk flags and change-order detection, it may then be used to help yield a better return on investment for the project.

Firms that turn field data into shared insight—securely and in real time—will move from tools to tangible labor savings, safer job sites and faster closeout.