We all understand that technology has the potential to change our industry in a positive manner. However, adoption remains perhaps the most significant challenge in seeing results that tech has promised to provide.
In Episode 053 of the AEC Engineering and Technology Podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Bhragan Paramanantham, a professional engineer at AECOM and construction technology advocate, about the key impediments to technology adoption in construction and how we can overcome them.
If you find this summary useful, check out the full-length episode!
Key Impediments to Tech Adoption
Awareness and Education
Bhragan emphasized that awareness is the first major hurdle. Many engineers and construction professionals are simply unaware of the solutions available to them. However, awareness alone isn’t sufficient.
Education plays an important role in increasing the chances that once professionals know about these solutions, they understand how to implement them effectively. This includes knowing how to pilot new technologies, establishing key performance indicators (KPIs) to track success, and integrating these solutions seamlessly into existing workflows.
Operationalizing Solutions
Operationalizing technology means making it a habitual part of daily workflows. Bhragan discussed the importance of creating systems where every engineer knows exactly when and where to use specific technologies. This requires thorough training and a strategic approach to scaling successful pilot programs across entire organizations.
The Role of Education and Training
Building a Knowledge Base
Education and training are paramount for successful technology adoption. Bhragan highlighted the need for platforms and resources that share best practices and lessons learned from experts in the field. By doing so, organizations can create a robust knowledge base that supports the continuous integration of new technologies.
Certification and Accreditation
Looking ahead, Bhragan envisions the development of certification programs for construction technologists. These programs would provide formal recognition of expertise in technology adoption, process mapping, and organizational change management, ensuring that professionals are well-equipped to handle the complexities of modern construction environments.
Effective Messaging for Startups
Shifting the Narrative
Startups often face challenges in messaging their value propositions to the construction industry. Bhragan advised against focusing solely on disruption and instead emphasizing how technology can augment and assist existing roles. By presenting themselves as service-oriented or technology-enabled subcontractors, startups can build trust and foster meaningful relationships within the industry.
Relationship-Based Business
In an industry built on relationships, startups need to integrate seamlessly as a partner, not an adversary. Bhragan stressed the importance of understanding the unique needs of construction professionals and aligning technology solutions to support their goals rather than replace them.
Addressing the Labor Shortage
Bootcamp-Style Programs and Apprenticeships
To tackle the ongoing labor shortage in construction, Bhragan is excited about the rise of bootcamp-style startups and apprenticeship programs. These initiatives offer alternative pathways into the industry, providing intensive training and guaranteed job placements. By equipping new workers with relevant technological skills, these programs not only address the labor gap but also boost technology adoption by creating a more skilled workforce.
Technology as an Enabler
Technology serves as an enabler, allowing a smaller workforce to accomplish tasks more efficiently. By automating tedious tasks and enhancing productivity, technology helps bridge the gap caused by labor shortages.
Advice for Engineers Eager to Integrate More Tech
Take Proactive Steps
Bhragan shared his personal journey of overcoming hesitancy to adopt new technologies. His advice to engineers is straightforward: act. Start by reaching out to digital managers or executives within your organization, attend industry conferences, and engage with online communities.
Start Small and Scale
Begin with small, manageable projects to pilot new technologies. Learn from these initial implementations, refine your approach, and gradually scale successful solutions across your organization.
About the Author 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. Nick is also the host of the AEC Engineering and Technology Podcast (“AECTECH”) and 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?” He can be found on LinkedIn, producing content about use of technologies in his civil engineering career and small business.
We would love to hear any questions you might have or stories you might share about how to encourage tech adoption in engineering teams.
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