NOVEMBER 2024CONSTRUCTIONTECHREVIEW.COM8IN MYOPINIONTHE HUMAN FACTOR IN THE DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION OF THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRYBy Frédéric Leclair, Directeur Senior, Services Dessins / Director, Drafting Services, CanamThe industrial revolu-tions of the past have significantly shaped the world we live in today. From mechanization to mass production and electrification, followed by electronics, computers, and auto-mation, each revolution brought about transformative changes in economies, societies, and workplaces. Now, as we find ourselves amidst the fourth indus-trial revolution, characterized by rapid technological advancements and digital transformation, it is poised to redefine the future in profound ways.In the construction industry, digital processes and innovative technologies are becoming increasingly prevalent. Building information modeling (BIM), augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), internet of things (IoT), and drones are just a few examples of the tech-nologies that are revolutionizing the construction landscape. Yet, amid this surge of technological progress, it is important to recognize that the ultimate key to success in this digital revolu-tion lies in the hands of the people and their willingness to adapt, share, and collaborate.The power of peoplePeople-driven companies that actively embrace and explore new technologies are poised to emerge as leaders in this new industrial era. These organizations recognize that the true potential of the technological revolution can only be un-locked through a holistic approach that integrates technology with the human element. Here are a few thoughts on how we can make people fully contribute to the successful digital transformation of our construction industry1. Organizational culture & Lean principles - People-oriented companies usually foster a culture that values in-novation and continuous improvement. Embracing change becomes a natural part of their ethos, and team members are encouraged to think creatively, ex-plore new solutions, and adapt to evolv-ing technologies. This cultural mindset facilitates the seamless adoption and integration of technology.2. Customer-centric approach - Companies committed to meeting client needs and expectations cultivate a team mindset that extends to the integration of technology into client interactions and project delivery. This customer-cen-tric approach positions them favorably to leverage technology for enhanced client communication, real-time up-dates, transparent project tracking, and personalized services.3. Collaborative environment - When individuals from diverse teams, departments, or disciplines within an organization are proactively engaged in regular discussions, workshops, and knowledge-sharing sessions, they are also more inclined to demonstrate effec-tive collaboration and facilitation skills with clients, partners, and project stake-holders. In the construction industry, there is an increasing prevalence of BIM collaborative platforms rich in real-time data, crucial for informed decision-mak-ing by project stakeholders and it is important to acknowledge the dedicated individuals driving these initiatives for the collective benefit.4. Empowerment - Granting team members the autonomy to make deci-sions and take ownership extends the benefit to the technology adoption as it empowers them to explore and adapt tools to specific needs. Such autonomy fosters agility and responsiveness in technology implementation.5. Talent retention - A positive work environment that values and supports its people contributes to higher retention Frédéric Leclair
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