GPS (Global Positioning System) is a ubiquitous technology in today’s world – used in cell phones, cargo and package delivery, air travel, rideshare companies and almost every other aspect of modern life. Originally designed as a satellite based navigation system, GPS has become the Gold Standard for tracking an asset or individual from origin to destination in horizontal, or 2D space

GPS on the Construction Site

Now let’s examine GPS on the construction worksite – specifically as a tool for tracking and monitoring a site’s construction workforce. Read more here.

First, it is important to consider that construction worksites are multi storied horizontal AND vertical spaces that extend above and below ground level while growing and changing over time – thus, there definitively needs to be a 3rd dimension added to the construction data stream when tracking a worker accurately through the site. When GPS and WiFi are used to triangulate a worker’s exact location - this is a HORIZONTAL location only – and without a vertical construction data point the accuracy of a worker’s location within a construction worksite is incomplete.

Second, because GPS location tracking depends on staying in constant contact with an array satellites via the worker’s tag or beacon – the battery drain can be severe. This adds the extra component of managing your team so that each worker is monitoring and recharging the battery in their tag/wearable throughout each shift.

Given these constraints, GPS technology is probably better utilized in the construction arena for tracking vehicles and large equipment that have a steady source of power and, with few exceptions, only need to be tracked in the 2D space

If you determine that your construction worksite needs to integrate GPS tracking into your workflow – Eyrus can make it work for you.  Read more about the Eyrus platform.