In this episode, I talk to Jay Wratten, PMP, US digital lead and global smart places lead at WSP in the U.S., about digital transformation in AEC and how it reshapes both client relationships and project delivery. We look at the shift to smart buildings, the rise of new pricing models, and the leadership lessons that help teams embrace engineering innovation and AEC technology strategy with confidence.
Engineering Quotes:
Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About Digital Transformation in AEC for Smart Buildings:
- Early digital exploration begins with using occupancy sensor data from lighting systems to guide real estate efficiency. A Bay Area tech client embraces this approach, opening the path to intentional smart building strategies.
- The move from analog to smart buildings transforms user experience through real-time guidance and seamless navigation. Airports highlight this shift by offering travelers data-driven way finding and even food delivery directly to their gate.
- Stadium design delivers cultural landmarks that combine entertainment with engineering complexity. These projects challenge teams with large-scale logistics while offering the excitement of visible, high-profile results.
- Digital transformation in AEC improves delivery efficiency and deepens client relationships by turning data into actionable insights. It also disrupts traditional time-based billing, requiring firms to rethink value and pricing.
- Private sector clients show the most openness to lump sum, retainer, or value-based pricing that aligns with outcomes. Public sector clients resist change due to rigid procurement systems tied to hourly models.
- Public sector leaders recognize the importance of digital transformation but progress slowly under governance and procurement constraints. Dialogue and education help connect innovation with measurable long-term value.
- New pricing models shift focus away from billable hours and allow employees to concentrate on client outcomes. Efficiency gains create opportunities for higher-level analysis and professional growth.
- Adopting a digital mindset is challenging because engineers are trained to avoid risk and hesitate with unfamiliar tools. Resistance also comes from sales discomfort and reliance on traditional utilization models.
- Supporting teams through change begins with listening to workflows and building trust by being present when needed. Safe experimentation encourages learning together and reduces fear of failure.
- Ideas most often emerge from front-line staff who see client challenges directly. Leadership strengthens impact by identifying patterns and scaling the best solutions across the business.
- Partnerships with technology firms combine engineering expertise with digital capabilities in areas like AI, cloud, and data architecture. Ongoing collaboration ensures facilities perform as intended and continuously improve.
- Roadblocks to implementing digital strategy include misaligned budgets between capital and operating expenses and vendor changes during long project cycles. These are navigated by aligning with the right stakeholders and preparing for technology refreshments.
- Understanding a client’s organization requires mapping who funds, who benefits, and how success is measured. Tailored communication ensures proposals align with priorities that matter most.
- Effective habits for AEC professionals include scanning technology trends beyond the AEC industry each morning to stay ahead of change. Regular physical activity provides space for reflection and sparks fresh ideas.
More in This Episode…
About Jay Wratten, PMP
Jay Wratten is the executive digital lead at WSP in the U.S. and the global smart places lead for WSP. Jay’s appointment is aligned with WSP’s global initiative to accelerate their shift to delivering digital-first solutions across their own and clients’s businesses. In his digital lead role, he is responsible for ensuring that WSP in the U.S. establishes a clear digital strategy supported by a robust digital leadership structure, demonstrates excellence in applying digital tools to project delivery, and continues to strengthen revenue and margin through our digital offerings. Additionally, Jay ensures the company is aligned globally to drive their digital strategy forward by sharing digital expertise and best practices between regions.
About the Host: Rebecca Swabey, P.Eng.
Rebecca is a professional engineer who transitioned into the role of a tech startup founder. With ten years of experience in the civil consulting industry, specializing in water resources engineering and land development, she co-founded Equator Studios in 2018. The company enhances efficiency and quality for civil firms in the early stages of projects by providing better access to LiDAR and proposal automation tools. Based in Ontario, Canada, Rebecca enjoys hiking along the Grand River, experimenting with pizza recipes, and spending time with her two dogs.
Resources and Links Mentioned in This Session Include:
WSP in the U.S.
Las Vegas Raiders / Allegiant Stadium
Atlanta Falcons / Mercedes-Benz Stadium
Oakland Athletics (A’s) Las Vegas Stadium Project
Trimble
Bentley
Autodesk
Esri
BG2 Podcast
Connect with Jay Wratten, PMP, on LinkedIn
AEC PM Certification
AEC PM Connect
Project Management Accelerator™
Engineering Leadership Accelerator™
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