How Jobsite Cameras Help Hunt Midwest Build Better Buildings

The value of construction camera technology for owner companies

In the fast-paced world of real estate development, staying informed about ongoing projects across various locations is crucial for success. Construction camera technology, such as that provided by EarthCam, has revolutionized the way owner companies like Hunt Midwest manage and oversee their developments. Jeff Redhage, a senior director of construction management at Hunt Midwest, offers valuable insights into the benefits of this technology from an owner’s perspective.

"Keep a close eye" on multiple projects & save travel costs

One of the standout advantages of construction cameras is the ability to monitor projects remotely. Redhage explains, “One of the benefits of having EarthCam is that we can be here, but yet still be able to see what’s going on.” This capability is particularly beneficial for a company like Hunt Midwest, which handles projects across multiple states, including Florida, Tennessee, Colorado, and South Carolina. Instead of frequent site visits, the team can keep a close eye on developments from their Kansas City office using EarthCam's Control Center, saving both time and travel costs.

Improved communication & problem-solving with GCs

EarthCam's construction cameras also facilitate better communication and problem-solving, with seamless integrations into project management software including Procore and Autodesk. Redhage notes that EarthCam's cameras “spur you to maybe look at something else as you’re sitting in your desk and be like, 'well, what’s going on in that detail?” This functionality allows project managers to identify potential issues early and address them before they escalate, fostering more effective collaboration with on-site superintendents. The visual data provided by the cameras can prompt discussions and lead to more accurate and timely solutions.

Accountability & transparency: 'pictures worth a thousand words'

The presence of construction cameras ensures a higher level of accountability among all parties involved in a project. As Redhage puts it, “pictures are worth a thousand words, and with EarthCam you can actually see it.” EarthCam's 4K video recording means that the development and ownership groups are constantly aware of the project’s status, ensuring that work progresses according to schedule and standards. This transparency helps in maintaining trust and ensuring that everyone is aligned with the project’s goals.

See incredible detail in high-resolution imagery

Redhage highlights the ability to zoom in on specific details, saying, “With EarthCam, I can be four or five thousand feet away from a site on top of an adjacent building and zoom in and see what size of roller the guy’s got on his hand as he’s putting the air barrier on. It helps us build better buildings.” Such precision ensures that the quality of work meets the required specifications, even from a distance. EarthCam's patented technology delivers multi-billion pixel clarity for monitoring and archiving important projects and events.

Efficient Time Management

Time management is another critical aspect where construction cameras prove invaluable. EarthCam's Control Center, for instance, allows managers to review the project’s progress over its lifespan, and give them the ability to drill down to a specific date and time. Redhage shares an example: “Using EarthCam, I was able to go back in time and get day-to-day deals as to when the actual slabs went down.” This capability is particularly useful for tracking milestones and verifying that the project remains on schedule.

Exceptional Customer Service

Beyond the technology itself, EarthCam’s customer service is a significant asset. Redhage appreciates the proactive approach, noting that “if the camera goes down, EarthCam's customer service calls up and says, hey, your camera went down.” This level of support ensures that any issues are promptly addressed, minimizing downtime and maintaining continuous oversight of the project.

EarthCam "helps me to do my job with more confidence"

EarthCam construction camera technology offers measurable benefits for owner companies. From enhanced oversight and improved communication to increased accountability and efficient time management, EarthCam's software solutions are a vital tool in modern construction management. As Jeff Redhage succinctly puts it, “the EarthCam system is easy to use, it works like it’s supposed to work, and it helps me to be able to do my job a lot smoother with more confidence.”  For owner companies looking to optimize their project management processes, embracing construction camera technology is a strategic move that promises significant returns.