The right tech, for the right problems

The world of construction is changing, and it's changing fast. Technology is at the forefront of that evolution, reshaping everything from how we design projects to how we manage them on-site. In the latest episode of the "Build Different" podcast, we get a front-row seat to this transformation. Director of Construction Technology, Todd Harper and Senior Superintendent Zach Dennison from Austin Commercial, delve into their experiences transitioning from architecture to construction, emphasizing the game-changing role of technology across the industry. 

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“A lot of times these new guys have no clue what this stuff is, so if we can show them on a screen, it definitely helps…The best way to learn is literally you take the iPad out there with the drawings and you look and you see what's being installed. You're not going to know everything, but that’s how you learn.”– Zac Denison

Zac does an excellent job of shining a spotlight on the power of visual learning in construction. Imagine a newbie stepping onto a massive job site for the first time – blueprints and specs can only convey so much. There's a world of difference between seeing a plan on paper and actually seeing how it translates to steel, concrete, and wires.

That's where the simple act of bringing the "digital asset" to the site becomes a game-changer. The iPad becomes a bridge between theory and practice, turning abstract concepts into tangible reality. It's learning by doing, but with the added benefit of having instant access to information and visual references that were previously locked away in the trailer.

Key takeaway: On-site learning gets amplified when you pair it with visual aids like tablets and digital models. It accelerates the knowledge transfer for newcomers, helps prevent costly mistakes, and ultimately empowers the whole team to work smarter and faster.

“Some of these job sites are so large. Even just having the picture from above makes a difference. If you don't have it, your perspective is so different looking down on it. How do you access what's happening on a job without this? If you walk it, it would take a whole day to do so. The visibility of holistically what's happening at a job is low hanging fruit.” - Todd Harper

This quote really drives home the power of visualization. On sprawling construction sites, getting the big picture isn't just nice; it's essential. Imagine trying to manage a complex build armed only with blueprints and your two feet. You'd spend more time on logistics than actually getting work done!

That's where the 'low-hanging fruit' aspect comes in. Tech like drones or aerial photography makes it a breeze to capture that holistic view, instantly leveling up your understanding of the jobsite. Suddenly, progress tracking, problem-spotting, and resource allocation get a massive efficiency boost.

Key takeaway: Sometimes, the simplest tech has the most profound impact. By enhancing visibility, you save time, reduce errors, and empower teams with better information for faster decisions.

“If you are trying to implement technology, you have to be persistent and have passion for it. We used to think we “have” to have it, and get all behind that technology, and then the field doesn't use it. The fastest way you can advance your career on the VDC side of things is to go to the field. If you don't understand the problem, you won't be able to select the right solution to solve the problem.” – Todd Harper 

This really showcases the importance of balance when it comes to tech in construction. On one hand, there's the potential – the drive to find new ways to make projects better. But there's also the reality of boots-on-the-ground experience that can't be overlooked. It's easy to get swept away by flashy tech demos and promises of revolution, but the quote calls for persistence for a reason: lasting change takes time and buy-in.

The most impactful solutions aren't born in a vacuum. They're designed in collaboration with the people who will actually use them. Understanding the day-to-day challenges of crews, identifying their pain points –  that's the bedrock for choosing the right tech. It's a lesson in the dangers of "tech for tech's sake" and a strong argument for on-the-ground experience guiding smart implementation strategies.

Key takeaway: Building a truly tech-driven future in construction means bridging the gap between the virtual design world and the realities of the job site. It's about empathy, collaboration, and recognizing that the flashiest solution isn't always the best solution.

Todd and Zac's experiences underline that lasting change comes not from chasing the flashiest tech, but from choosing solutions that genuinely solve problems, improve workflows, and ultimately make the jobs of crews easier. Their emphasis on adaptability, listening to the field, and a passion for continuous improvement are the keys to building a future where tech is a true force for positive transformation in the industry.