As it is well known, digital transformation can improve the profitability and competitiveness of a construction company in the current market, which can be essential for the long-term success of your business. In addition to improving communication among collaborators, there are other benefits for making more informed and real-time decisions during the development of construction projects.
Despite the evident benefits of digitalization, the construction industry still faces many challenges in adopting technology. For instance, according to market data surveyed by the EU, the three main factors hindering a faster and more widespread digitalization of the European construction sector are:
- Cost of technology equipment and software
- Lack of qualified workforce
- Insufficient awareness and understanding of digital technologies.
How can we achieve a mindset change in the construction industry so that digitalization becomes the norm rather than the exception? The implementation of digital technologies in construction project management is a complex and challenging process, especially for companies that have no prior experience in this field. Having the support of an experienced company in construction technology development can be key to ensuring a successful and efficient implementation of digital solutions.
In this article, we will address 3 key aspects of how digitalization can improve the construction industry: Staff training in ERP usage, Integration with other systems, and Information security. In each section, we will describe the benefits of implementing construction project management software and how to effectively adapt to change.
Staff Training in work Process’ Digitalization
Staff training is a fundamental aspect of the successful implementation of digitalization in a construction company. Many companies face challenges when training their workers, and one of the main challenges is resistance to change. Workers may feel comfortable with old processes and may be unwilling to adopt new technologies. Lack of time for training is another common challenge. Workers may have a tight schedule and not enough time to learn about new tools and digital platforms.
Some solutions for digital training in the construction industry can better adapt to the tight schedules of the collaborating team. One option is to use online learning materials and pre-recorded videos that employees can watch in their free time. Training sessions can also be scheduled at times that do not interfere with the workers’ daily tasks. In any case, it is important to involve employees in these processes, allowing them to express their doubts and suggestions so that they feel part of the change and motivated to learn.
The reality is that each construction company has its specific needs, with its own working methods and business goals. Having consultancy and support is essential to ensure that the team of collaborators incorporates digital work methodologies. With over 30 years of experience in the construction and building industry, BrickControl offers ERP implementation consulting and training to digitize work processes in a feasible way and specific to each company.
As an additional recommendation, offering incentives for training, such as bonuses or days off, can encourage participation and ensure the success of the digital training plan.
Integration: Optimizing Information Flow in Construction
A very relevant point in terms of technological transformation is the integration of different systems with construction project management. This involves connecting and synchronizing different programs and platforms to work together harmoniously and optimize the flow of information. Lack of system integration can lead to a series of challenges, such as data duplication and lack of communication between teams, which can result in errors and project delays.
Software integration also allows for greater collaboration and communication between teams. Different teams in a construction project, such as the design team, construction team, and project management team, can work together in the same environment, sharing information and real-time updates. This allows for faster and more efficient decision-making, which can lead to the successful completion of the project in a shorter timeframe.
A very relevant example is the integration of project management software with accounting software. Efficient cost management is essential for the profitability of a construction project, and accounting software can provide valuable information about project costs. Integration between these systems allows construction companies to have a complete and up-to-date view of the project’s financial situation, enabling them to make informed decisions and avoid unpleasant surprises.
Digitalization and Information Security
Construction companies handle a large amount of data and documentation, from plans and designs to financial information and staff’s personal information. The lack of adequate protection for this information can have serious consequences for the business, including loss of information, loss of time and money, as well as damage to the company’s reputation.
One of the most common problems faced by construction companies that do not digitize their information management is the loss of important documentation. In addition to this, manual management of processes and information can be prone to human errors and fraud.
In this regard, the implementation of digital and integrated solutions presents enormous benefits for companies in the sector. Comprehensive access control features allow users to access only the information and processes they need to perform their work. This ensures that the information is available only to authorized persons.
To conclude this brief overview of digital transformation, it is worth remembering that electronic document and process management minimizes the need to handle large amounts of paper. This reduces the possibility of information loss or deterioration, as well as administrative and operational costs.
In this article, we have briefly described how digitalization can improve the efficiency and productivity of construction projects, as well as the common challenges that companies face in its implementation. It is important to consider that the implementation of digital tools is not a simple process and requires commitment from the company and its staff.
With proper training and careful planning, the benefits of digitalization can have a significant positive impact on construction projects and the success of your company.
Do you have questions about how to implement software for construction companies in your company? Check out what our company can offer for successful ERP implementation consulting and contact our team of experts.
