Reduce Technology Resistance in Construction Projects
Construction industry is quite resistant to adapt to any new technological change. Technology helps to boost the construction management process run and help increase productively and efficiency levels. It is quite natural for people to be resistant to transformation or change especially in their work life. This is mostly because stability is craved and the introduction of anything new, especially with regard to technology is a possible threat to that. Baby boomers, has been doing things a certain way and may face challenges. Besides the “fear of the unknown,” is always there. The fear is particularly that the competence that is required to use new technologies is not in them. That in turn leads to resistance in the long run which may be the reason to disrupt the process of construction management.
It is without a doubt that the construction industry is behind when it comes to using technology. However, this scenario has changed with the introduction of newer and improved technologies like construction management tools, robots, drones and more. While, resistance towards technology is inevitable, the intensity can always be toned down to the minimal level. What if they were offered a tool that would make their work easier and faster? What if they could finish a project in less time and within the stipulated budget?
Let’s check the top 5 ways to reduce technological resistance in the workplace.
Explain the benefits:
The apprehensions of using a new software is always there, so explaining the benefits. Help your team member understand that how it helps to complete projects faster and well under budget or moreover improve the work quality and productivity levels. Explain to them how using the software will improve the quality of work on a personal level. It also means fewer trips from office to the field and share updated information, anytime, anywhere. Your proposal will be hard to turn down when you point out all the benefits that the new technology has to offer.
Training:
One of the best ways to reduce technology resistance is to train employees. Proper training is necessary for effective implementation of a new technology. If project members are underprepared or ill-equipped then chances are that they will not be able to use it and the new technology becomes redundant.
Participation:
You can always encourage your team members to proactively use the software before implementing it on the actual project. Make them feel part of the process. Your staff can slowly facilitate the process and it could be encouraging for the members as well.
Advocate:
Recognize and select members who can help to introduce and implement the new technology. It is best to employ members who are tech-savvy and can easily get all others up and running. It is likely that other project members will be interested to take up a new technology when some members are already using it. Pairing up your project members who are tech savvy is a win for your project.
Picking the Right Software:
With software solutions and multiple technologies available in the market; it’s not easy to pick the most suitable software. Most software adoption fails because the implementation is shoddy and there is lack of support system from the company. Therefore, choosing the right one becomes imperative. If you are using construction documentation management software, designed for AEC professionals choose something with a user-friendly interface. Some of the market leaders include Procore, SKYSITE, Plangrid, Fieldwire and Aconex. What’s your take on this?
How do you plan to overcome technology resistance in your construction project?