Embracing Innovation and Utilizing Technology in Construction Projects

Construction is such a physical environment that is is sometimes hard for those who have been doing the same things successfully for years to see how the application of technology would help change things for the better, However, I think once advanced technology such as digital twins, robotics, AI and physical assistance such as what is happening with drones could see a big shift in acceptance and use. Collaboration is a big deal as well, in terms of virtual tools available and even just approaches, such as the "Big Room" approach that brings construction professionals together. Training in assembly and maintenance of equipment can be made virtual and on demand with VR. I recall seeing a video a few years back of a large machine "printing" girders for buildings. Impressive! And there is so much more.

But to address your question about reticence to change, it is probably the same old change management (or lack of) story: Low awareness, lack of skills and knowledge, little direction from the top, and a desire to remain with the skills learned in univertisty or while apprenticing. After all, that is what has kept earning. When the constrution companies adopt new techology, probably because of the profit motive, those in architecture, engineering and the trades won't have any choice but to adopt and adapt.

There may also be a resistance to straying outside of established education in construction such as engineering and architectural disciplines, apprenticeship and credentialing such as LEEDS and Red Seal. Although I think the PMI-CP, or Construction Professional, is making some headway.

I think there is a big difference whether you are talking about the business professional side of construction, or the skilled labor. Learning a trade often starts with limited education and then a many year progression from apprentice, to journeyman, etc. I have seen an attitude of fear that technology will replace long practiced skills, particularly when dealing with people who have 20+ years experience in their trade..

You still see that in business roles as well such as large companies where people can make a career out of running certain archaic programs, but typically office technology changes frequently enough that people become more accustomed to doing things a different (even if not better) way.. Swinging a hammer by contrast hasn't evolved much in my lifetime.

What I have found critical to getting over the hesitation over some technology innovations in non-office environments is assuring people that they won't get less hours on the clock and they time they do work will be less frustrating than what they currently complain about all day.