How to use robotics on the construction site with the 80/20 rule
Using construction robots on site doesn’t necessarily mean that the whole building will be completely constructed by autonomous systems (although it will be cool if that would be possible – imagine C-3PO building you dream house!). Realistically it will be a cooperative tandem of robots and humans, guided by the Pareto Principle.
The Pareto Principle, also known as the 80/20 rule, suggests that 80% of results come from 20% of efforts and 20% of results from 80% of efforts.
In context of construction it can mean that 80% of the time invested during the construction the value gained is 20% – and 20% of the time invested a value of 80% is gained. So robots can be used for repetitive tasks not adding significant value (e.g. transporting material) and humans can focus on the 20% which generates 80% value, such as craftsmanships, where robots dont give as good results as humans do.
Robots on construction sites excel at handling repetitive and physically demanding tasks. For example: Bricklaying and masonry, excavation and site preparation, material transport, welding or drilling which would be equivalent to the 80% of the time.
This would free up human workers to focus on high-value, complex tasks. Humans would be able to concentrate on the 20% for example doing: Finishing touches, creative problem-solving, supervision or quality control.
This balance not only enhances efficiency but also potentially improves health of humans, as humans are less exposed to dangerous or physically exhausting conditions, with robots taking on the heavy lifting.
As automation technology advances, the line between the 80% and 20% may shift, but the need for human oversight, creativity, and craftsmanship will always remain. Rather than replacing human workers, robotics in construction empowers them to work smarter, not harder.
Automation and robotics are not about eliminating jobs—they’re about redefining roles. Robots and humans, working together in tandem, can achieve what neither could accomplish alone.
The construction site of the future won’t just be a place dominated by machines; it will be a dynamic, collaborative ecosystem. And honestly, that’s way more exciting than a fully autonomous site. Rather than leaving everything to R2-D2 and C-3PO, I’ve always wanted to be part of the action. Or instead of watching Wall-E toil away alone, I’d much rather join in and rummage through the junkyard together!
