When it comes to deciding whether or not to implement new construction technology, the conversation is typically focused on how it will directly help your company. Benefits will include cost savings, efficiency, and document control. While these are important areas to cover, a company’s decision to stay innovative by adopting new technology can have even greater benefits.

Foster A Culture for Innovation

Management should be clear about what they want to achieve and why. This should not mean trial and error experiences are banned. It is impossible to achieve success without beta testing. Foster a culture to beta test new technologies and say "it’s alright if it fails." If a tool does not work, move on and benefit from the lessons learned. 

Focus on Productivity

The most urgent areas for construction industry development are productivity, client service, and sustainability. Productivity boosts come from process improvement, use of technology (like DADO), and new material technologies. Skilled people who are committed to learning are at the core of productivity.

Uncover Cost Savings Without Sacrificing Quality

New technologies, like collaboration software, provide a way to uncover cost savings with no impact on overall quality. In fact, deploying these solutions will often increase the quality of the end product. By presenting cost-savings that come from line items related to efficiency rather than physical materials up front, you’ll be able to compete on cost without sacrificing quality. It’s a win-win for the project owner.

The following are 15 questions you should be able to answer before launching your technology investment initiative.

1. Does our company have a clear purpose for technology adoption?
2. Does our company have a culture of sharing?
3. Does leadership embrace and support new technology adoption?
4. Does leadership have a plan for adoption improvement?
5. Has our company identified and engaged technology champions?
6. Has our company identified and engaged technology influencers?
7. Are key stakeholders actively engaged?
8. Does the construction technology have business-friendly outcomes and purposes?
9. Is there a strategic plan for departments and project sites?
10. Is there an effective internal marketing campaign and adoption plan?
11. Is there an effort to improve participation?
12. Does our company have clearly drafted and communicated policies for usage?
13. Is there a program to capture user experience?
14. Is there incentive to be a significant contributor, collaborator, or sharer?
15. Is there a way to capture user feedback?

Think through the answers for each of these questions and challenge your own company before you get too far in the deployment or implementation of that next collaborative or productivity focused technology.

Did you enjoy this article?  You may also enjoy reading 10 Tips for Implementing New Construction Technology.