Building in Balance: Technology and Well-being in Construction

The construction industry is in the midst of a culture shift driven by the technology that has revolutionized how the industry works. Digital tools and advanced software have redefined how work gets done, how teams communicate, collaborate and solve problems. Today’s construction professionals work seamlessly across devices, issuing change orders or accessing project data in real-time from the jobsite and beyond.

This shift has brought efficiency and flexibility, reshaping expectations for speed and precision. But tech also presents new challenges, particularly as technology blurs the boundaries between work and personal life, requiring teams to adapt to an always-connected environment.

CEO of Peninsulators Courtney Daniels shares her insights on how technology is influencing construction culture, addressing both its promises and challenges.

Embracing a New Era in Construction

The integration of technology plays a huge role in the evolution of construction. New technology provides tools for better communication and problem-solving, and by embracing these changes, the construction industry can move beyond traditional boundaries.

As the industry continues to change, the focus must remain on building together. This involves not only adopting technological innovations but also cultivating an environment where diverse perspectives are valued. By doing so, the construction industry can usher in a new era of growth and success characterized by collaboration and respect.

The Double-Edged Sword of Connectivity

Technology has undeniably improved efficiency, communication and project management in the construction industry. The ability to communicate and manage projects from virtually anywhere has leveled the playing field, enabling smaller firms to compete more effectively with larger counterparts. This democratization of access and capability has been a game-changer for many businesses striving to expand their reach and impact.

While technology offers numerous advantages, it also blurs the lines between work and personal life. Construction professionals often feel the pressure to be constantly available, which can contribute to a culture of overwork and potentially lead to burnout.

The industry's challenge is to harness the benefits of technology while creating a work environment that respects personal time and promotes well-being. Establishing clear boundaries and setting realistic expectations are essential steps toward achieving this balance.

Technology and Shifting Leadership Styles

Access to real-time data and analytics through technology enhances communication and decision-making processes. Looking to the future, the rapid pace of technological change, combined with the entry of a new generation into the workforce, offers opportunities to establish new standards and integrate technology more seamlessly.

This integration allows technology systems to communicate directly with each other, reducing the reliance on individuals to bridge data gaps. Consequently, this allows for a more thoughtful examination of workplace policies, particularly those related to work hours and employee well-being.

Leveraging these technological advancements will help the construction industry create a more dynamic and adaptive leadership style better suited to meet the challenges and opportunities of the modern work environment.

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Technology and Cultural Transformation

Construction has never been more accessible. Modern construction technologies have streamlined — and in some cases even automated — communication and administrative processes. Physical binders stacked 6 feet tall and filled with paperwork are now accessible from a tablet on the jobsite — organized based on phase, date or manager.

Stakeholders can now remotely view projects using Virtual Reality (VR), Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) and Building Information Modeling (BIM) and give their approval from across the globe, while robot dogs can quality check projects using AI comparisons of a video feed to a model. 

Technology has enabled professionals to work effectively without the need to be physically present in the office or the jobsite. But, as construction companies increasingly adopt these technological advancements, it is important for them to intentionally cultivate a strong workplace culture. 

Accessibility to projects from anywhere means that it can blur the lines of when workers are on the job — which can create burnout if proper boundaries are not set. Keeping workers at their best requires a company culture that creates and respects boundaries, communicating when they are on the job and when they are not. After all, everyone involved in a construction project has a life outside that project. 

If you're interested in learning more about how Procore can help with leadership development and culture transformation, please email industrycultureteam@procore.com or visit procore.com/industry-culture.

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