Like many industries outside of manufacturing, construction has been slow to embrace automation. While companies are improving at identifying promising technologies, the adoption of construction robotics remains limited, according to a new report from BuiltWorlds Inc.
Robotics Integration Driving Smarter, Tech-Enabled Construction Workflows
“Contractors, owners, and tech providers are testing robotics for tasks like layout, drilling, and material transport,” wrote Audrey Lynch, senior research analyst at BuiltWorlds. “When paired with connected equipment and data-driven insights, these tools can help create a more efficient, adaptable, and scalable construction process. This reflects a broader shift toward intelligent, tech-enabled workflows that connect on-site operations with digital planning.”
BuiltWorlds, a Chicago-based organization, offers research, advisory services, and networking for leaders in construction and infrastructure. With a global network of over 250 companies across 25+ countries, it supports clients through a digital platform and educational programs designed to navigate the rapidly evolving industry.
2025 Report Reveals Growing Optimism Toward Construction Robotics Across Contractor Types
In its 2025 Equipment & Robotics Benchmarking Report, BuiltWorlds observed a noticeable improvement in attitudes toward construction robotics. The report drew input from a diverse group of contractors—including general, specialty trade, and subcontractors—with annual revenues ranging from $2 million to over $5 billion.
BuiltWorlds stated that these responses offer a snapshot of the industry’s current mindset toward robotics and equipment innovation at the company level. Compared to previous years, sentiment has become more positive.
“Significantly, negative views on enterprise-wide robotics strategies have declined sharply, with ‘fair’ ratings dropping by 14 percentage points and no ‘poor’ ratings reported—down from 7.4% last year,” the report noted. “At the same time, positive feedback is on the rise, with ‘good’ or better evaluations increasing from 74% in 2024 to over 95% this year, including a nearly 10-point jump in ‘excellent’ ratings.”
Despite the rise in positive sentiment, actual deployment of construction robotics slightly declined year over year, according to BuiltWorlds.
Shift from Experimentation to Strategic Use Slows Overall Adoption
In 2024, 65% of surveyed firms reported using some form of robotics or automation. This year, that figure dropped to 46%. While this might suggest declining interest, it may instead reflect a more selective, strategic approach.
“Much of last year’s reported use came from pilot programs,” explained Audrey Lynch. “This year, we’re seeing fewer pilots but more consistent use on projects, indicating a shift toward deliberate, targeted implementation, even if at smaller scales.”
BuiltWorlds added, “The key insight is that while full-scale adoption is still limited, growing commitment from a smaller group of contractors shows robotics is gradually evolving from a futuristic concept to a practical, modern jobsite solution.”
Read the original article on: The Robot Report
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