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In this episode, I talk with Jamison Morse, P.E., Principal and Director of Structures, and Sean Bailey, Lead Software Developer, from PVE, LLC, about how software development is reshaping architecture and engineering firms, the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in our field, and what lies ahead for technology in our industry. They highlight the benefits of in-house software teams and tailored solutions, discuss AI’s impact on projects, and share examples of custom development at PVE.
***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.***
Engineering Quotes:
Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Jamison and Sean:
- How did the idea to integrate software development into PVE, a multidisciplinary AE firm, come about, and what was your vision for this integration?
- What technology trend do you see as most impactful for the future of architecture and engineering, particularly concerning AI?
- How does having an in-house software development team improve the firm’s capacity to innovate and provide tailored solutions?
- How is simplifying everyone’s job by avoiding Word files and administrative tasks when compiling engineering reports a win-win situation?
- How has the integration of AI into your projects been, including the challenges, benefits encountered, and overall progress?
- Do new graduates receive mentorship and access to a large language model to assist them in navigating and seeking guidance across the entire organization?
- Do you have any other examples of custom development projects that your team has put together that you’d like to share?
- What exciting new developments or projects are on the horizon, particularly in terms of new technologies or collaborations within the engineering industry?
- Does your process offer quick property snapshots and recommendations to save clients time in decision-making?
- How do regional factors influence the development of your projects?
- What advice do you have for engineers aiming to integrate software development and technology innovations into their work effectively?
Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About How to Benefit from Custom Software Development in the A/E Industry:
- Implementing software to reduce administrative tasks and bureaucratic processes in architecture, engineering, and construction enables professionals in these fields to focus more on critical thinking, design, and problem-solving.
- It’s important to emphasize how AI can enhance human judgment in architecture and engineering, ensuring it improves processes while still valuing human expertise in decision-making.
- Having an in-house software development team allows the firm to innovate with custom solutions like a document automation platform, which improves efficiency with current deliverables and facilitates adaptation to new types of work. This capability ultimately enhances client value and competitiveness in the industry.
- By avoiding Word files and administrative tasks with custom document automation solutions, everyone’s job is simplified, allowing engineers to focus on core tasks and deliver consistent, high-quality reports efficiently. This streamlines processes, boosts productivity, and enhances credibility with clients through polished and error-free deliverables.
- Integrating AI tools like Turbine has streamlined document aggregation and provided personalized project assistance for engineering and architectural firms. While refining AI capabilities and ensuring data accuracy presents challenges, overall progress has improved collaboration and connectivity across teams, saving time and enhancing project outcomes.
- New graduates at engineering and architectural firms benefit from mentorship and tools that assist them in navigating and seeking guidance across the entire organization. This support promotes knowledge sharing and collaboration, enabling new hires to succeed and contribute effectively within their roles.
- PVE, LLC has developed custom web applications to streamline processes like automating proposal submissions and integrating project data with client information from its ERP system. These projects have greatly improved efficiency and standardized workflows, benefiting client interactions and overall productivity.
- PVE, LLC is developing automation tools using open data to provide instant insights to clients and optimize consulting services. Initiatives like the Property Snapshots tool focus on quick building performance assessments for compliance.
- Providing clients with hands-on tools like the Property Snapshots tool empowers them to make informed decisions and engage with their projects more effectively. This approach not only enhances client satisfaction by enabling self-discovery but also optimizes consulting efforts by focusing on meaningful interactions and valuable insights.
- Regional factors, such as diverse architectural styles and varying building regulations, significantly influence how architects and engineers approach projects. This necessitates adaptable processes and software development to meet specific regional requirements and align with local building practices and regulations.
- Innovation often comes from small changes that can have a big impact throughout the industry. Experimenting with processes and leveraging collaboration can lead to significant improvements and innovations, ensuring that software tools serve the users’ needs and workflows effectively.
More Details in This Episode…
About the Guests:
Jamison Morse, P.E.
Jamison Morse, P.E., serves as the Principal and Director of Structures at PVE, LLC, a role he has held since May 2009. With a master’s degree in Architectural Engineering from Penn State University, Jamison has spearheaded numerous innovative structural projects. His expertise blends technical proficiency with architectural acumen, driving advancements in sustainability and design within the engineering field. His leadership at PVE reflects a commitment to excellence and innovation in structural engineering.
Sean Bailey
Sean Bailey, leading as the Software Developer at PVE, LLC since July 2022, boasts a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Philosophy from the University of Pittsburgh. At PVE, he innovates in custom software solutions, leveraging his unique blend of technical and philosophical expertise to enhance the firm’s engineering and architectural projects. Sean’s forward-thinking approach has been key in introducing new efficiencies and capabilities, marking him as a critical driver of technology and innovation within the company.
About the Host: Nick Heim, P.E.
Nick Heim, P.E., is a civil engineer with six years of experience in the repair and restoration of existing structures and host of the AEC Engineering and Technology Podcast (AECTECH), where he brings valuable insights and expertise to listeners worldwide.
Nick’s interests lie at the intersection between the built world and technology, and he can be found looking for the ever-changing answer to the question, “How can we do this better?” Nick can be found on LinkedIn, producing content about the use of technologies in his civil engineering career and small business.
Sources/References:
PVE LLC
Turbine Workforce
Building Information Modeling (BIM)
ASTM International
ChatGPT
Property Snapshots
Green Energy Movement
Connect with Jamison Morse, P.E., on LinkedIn
Connect with Sean Bailey on LinkedIn
We would love to hear any questions you might have or stories you can share on how you have benefited from custom software development in the A/E industry.
Please leave your comments, feedback, or questions in the section below.
To your success,
Nick Heim, P.E.
Host of the AEC Engineering and Technology Podcast
