Why continuous monitoring matters 

In the world of Structural Health Monitoring (SHM), the difference between proactive and reactive approaches can mean the difference between safety and catastrophe. As infrastructure ages and climate conditions grow more extreme, the importance of adopting a proactive strategy for structural monitoring has never been more evident. 

Proactive vs. reactive monitoring: what’s the difference? 

A reactive approach involves responding to issues only after they arise. For instance, maintenance or repairs are initiated following visible signs of deterioration, such as cracks, corrosion, or worse, structural failures. While this method might seem cost-effective initially, it often leads to costly repairs, operational disruptions, or even devastating disasters. 

In contrast, a proactive approach focuses on continuous monitoring to detect issues before they escalate into significant problems. By regularly collecting and analyzing real-time data, this strategy enables infrastructure owners to identify weaknesses, predict failures, and plan maintenance activities well in advance. 

Why continuous monitoring is crucial 

1. Preventing disasters before they happen 

Recent disasters serve as sobering reminders of the risks associated with neglecting infrastructure.  

• The Genoa Bridge collapse in Italy (2018) claimed 43 lives and highlighted the critical need for continuous monitoring. Investigations revealed that the bridge had shown signs of degradation for years, but interventions were reactive rather than proactive. 

• The Champlain Towers South collapse in Florida (2021) tragically killed 98 people. Early warning signs, including structural damage and corrosion, were identified but not addressed in time. 

These events underscore the importance of detecting and addressing issues at their earliest stages, a key advantage of a proactive approach. 

2. Cost-effectiveness and safety 

A proactive strategy not only enhances safety but also reduces costs in the long run. Identifying problems early allows for smaller, more targeted repairs rather than large-scale emergency interventions. This can prevent operational shutdowns, avoid legal liabilities, and safeguard human lives. 

3. Extending infrastructure lifespan 

Continuous monitoring helps infrastructure owners better understand how their structures behave over time. By collecting long-term data, owners can optimize maintenance schedules, avoid unnecessary repairs, and maximize the lifespan of their assets. 

The all-in-one solution for continuous, remote monitoring 

At Move Solutions, we provide an all-in-one solution for continuous, remote monitoring. combining hardware and software for comprehensive infrastructure management. Our systems support monitoring not only for static behaviors but also for dynamic, geotechnical, and environmental factors, ensuring a complete picture of your asset health. 

Our sensors are precise, reliable, and designed for various applications, while our MyMove IoT Platform offers user-friendly data analysis and visualization tools. This integrated approach ensures you can track the safety of your infrastructure with confidence and efficiency. 

Why proactive monitoring is still underutilized 

Despite its clear benefits, proactive SHM is still a relatively new concept in many markets. Traditional maintenance practices often rely on periodic inspections or respond only after visible damage occurs. 

At Move Solutions, we aim to change that mindset. Our advanced structural health monitoring solutions offer real-time, continuous data collection, making proactive monitoring accessible and reliable for infrastructure managers worldwide. From bridges and railways to buildings and dams, we empower our clients to make informed decisions that enhance safety, reduce costs, and promote sustainability. 

Building a safer future together 

Proactive structural health monitoring represents a shift toward smarter, safer, and more sustainable infrastructure management. By embracing this approach, we can prevent disasters, protect lives, and save money. 

At Move Solutions, we’re proud to lead this transformation. Our goal is to help clients understand the value of continuous monitoring and to make proactive SHM the new standard across industries.