Technology adoption has caused heated controversies within the construction industry for many years. According to a current study, our industry is viewed as “the least technologically competent” (Construction Dive, 2023).
We are here to argue that technology should be leveraged to serve the industry, not the other way around. We believe in better-connected communications and an empowered workforce as the solution to this. Let’s dive right in:
Is going digital necessary?
The most valuable asset construction has is its people. That’s why prioritising health and safety isn’t just a goal—it’s a top priority. Digital tools enable organisations to identify patterns and anticipate potential hazards. This predictive capability empowers proactive measures to mitigate risks, ensuring a safer work environment. It’s all about staying ahead of the curve and making sure everyone stays safe and sound on the job.
We can’t deny that keeping everyone on the same page on-site is a real headache. With conversations happening all over the place, it’s tough to share the latest info across different teams.
If this sounds familiar to you, you’re not alone! It is yet the most common struggle most contractors share. But it gets even messier when each team sticks to their own favourite communication tools. Think office folks loving SlackEmails, the ‘Z Drive’ and DropboxSharepoint while the field teams are all about Whatsapp and Google Drive. So yes, a platform that allows seamless integrations of data points is a lifesaver!
Most importantly, streamlined workflows and automated processes can reduce time-consuming manual tasks, leading to improved efficiency and productivity. Consider this: 90% of site workers are out in the ground every day. Imagine if we can save them minutes to hours a day, the potential outcomes are bound to be remarkable.
BUT HOW DO WE GET PEOPLE ENGAGED?
There is no doubt about it, change can be pretty daunting for all of us. Moving everything online? Stakeholders might be questioning if this digital thing is really going to be as effective as they hope. Others might feel a bit uneasy about sharing their info online. Or worst of all, the platform might just be a total nightmare to use…
We believe it all comes down to clarity and transparency. This is why innDex become innovation partners with all of our clients. We work with them to bring all stakeholders together from the beginning. No matter what team they are part of – Health & Safety, Sustainability, Legal/Compliance, Commercial, Admin and Operations, this ensures we all get that shared expected value. From the start, we want to help them envision how digital tools can facilitate their jobs, rather than thinking of them as another burden.
In addition, employees have the right to know how their personal information is being handled. We encourage our clients not only to inform their teams of our data protection policy, but also to educate them on the reasons why their data needs to be collected to begin with. By empowering employees with essential data knowledge, we foster a culture of accountability and respect within the organisation. This builds trust and brings peace of mind that improves employee mental well-being.
Last but not least, we also believe it’s crucial to keep our people engaged throughout the implementation process. It’s frustrating when everyone is on board, only to find out the app is a nightmare to use… Always start with a trial project or two! Find out if the system is going to add the value whilst being a seamless addition to daily operations!
Usability is often overlooked and can lead to user confusion and, ultimately, app abandonment. That’s why we ensure thorough UI/UX testing that the system is both visually appealing and user-friendly. By testing different design elements and gathering feedback from users, we aim to prevent users from reaching that breaking point where they decide to quit.
InnDex as a change facilitator
As a business, we always strive to incorporate best practices to enhance digital effectiveness. We aim to engage everyone in the technology adoption process through transparency and education. We are passionate about sharing knowledge on managing change, and recently had an opportunity to do so.
Check out our co-founder George Smithies talking about managing digital transformation at all stages in the Lean Construction Ireland webinar. The topic is “Going Digital: Change doesn’t have to be complicated”.
