Staying Relevant in the Digital Age: Challenges Impacting Contractors

Modern technology gives today’s contractors opportunities to streamline their workflows, trim costs, and grow their client lists. While keeping pace with technology in the construction industry isn’t always easy, it’s a must for contractors who want to survive in the current marketplace.

Weighing the Costs and Benefits

With so many details and participants involved in every construction project, flawless organization is critical for meeting today’s client expectations. Oversights and miscommunication cause costly errors and delays that make a firm seem less competent than the competition.

Construction management software lets contractors bring order to even the most complex projects, helping them deliver a better product faster. Due to the upfront and ongoing costs involved, however, some firms may be reluctant to make the switch from a paper-based management system.

Those who do often find the benefits outweigh the costs. Important documents are stored securely, so they won’t go missing or be destroyed by accident. Employees have immediate access to the information they need. Both these factors prevent unnecessary delays. Management software also improves cost control by providing contractors with up-to-the-minute information that can be used to head off cost overruns.

Managing the Learning Curve

Advanced communication technology has increased the speed at which we do business. Clients, subcontractors, and other business partners have come to expect fast responses and the option for remote collaboration. One way construction firms can meet these demands is by equipping managers with tablet computers and other mobile devices.

Taking advantage of this kind of technology in the construction industry means investing both money and time in training, as well as ensuring employees actually use the devices and software available. While that may cause some initial delays and confusion, the payoff is a leaner, more cost-effective process.

With cloud-based BIM software, everyone involved in the project can easily contribute and share without the need for drawn-out email conversations and in-person meetings.
Mobile devices and apps let managers instantly file information from on-site inspections, improving safety and code compliance.

To stay up to date on technology in the construction industry, contact us at Construction Monitor.