GUIDE
Embracing Change, Overcoming Fears
I’m not afraid to shine a spotlight on myself here, and I’d bet many contractors are in the same boat when it comes to internal processes. Sure, we’ve got tribal knowledge or rough guidelines; but there’s nothing etched in stone – or jotted down on paper – that can serve as a standard operating procedure or workflow. Owning up to the fact that our processes suck can be an eye opener. You might argue, “We do have processes, just look at our accounting system!” But let’s be honest, those accounting protocols are often industry standards, passed down rather than tailored to your unique business model and types of work.
Tech Adoption Summary
1. Technology Adoption Mindset
We are all capable of change. Every process / workflow can (and eventually must) be adapted and scaled to the times
2. Navigating Technology & Software
Our approach to technology adoption has to be dynamic and as multifaceted as the projects/work we tackle.
We all need to learn assessment, implementation and ownership of our own tech solutions.
3. Culture
(Pre-Evaluation)
If you’re lacking a technology-friendly culture, make that your first step.
4. Perception
(Evaluation)
Perspective and Partnerships are paramount.
Whether it’s your ERP or any tech, two critical concerns, often overlooked, need attention; (1) our perception and (2) assembling the right team.
5. Process
(Post-Evaluation)
When considering new technology, be prepared to change processes, even if it means extra work.
So if you’re one of those rare gems with fully mapped-out processes that every employee – from the executive suite to the janitor – can access and understand even for menial tasks like taking out the trash — hats off to you. You’re light years ahead and are likely not reading this piece. If you’re like most of us, realize it’s OK to not have fully documented processes. We have successful businesses, which is proof we didn’t need them. Except we’re stuck and probably struggle with how to get to the next level or pass the reigns to the next generation. Luckily, it can actually be easier to pivot or evolve a vague process when implementing new software or technology. Especially when the vendor is a partner and can provide best practices.
Think about it: every SaaS company lives and dies by customer retention and word-of-mouth. Very much like we do with our key relationships. In my own experience with our PM software, I still shoot the breeze with my sales rep, and the tech-team is just a text away. It’s not a one-way street; we optimize our operations, and they get valuable user feedback to refine their products. Now that’s a partnership that is open to each other for mutual success. Look for groups that have a passion for what they do… not a quota you can fill this quarter.
Stop and Reflect on Your Current Processes
Take a moment to ponder your existing processes. Can you actually write out each step, who should be involved and what tool or method they should use? Are they relics from a bygone era? Maybe your business has been around for over 20 years, and everything’s still stuck on paper or in Excel. This misalignment with modern technology can be a roadblock. Imagine Netflix asking you to rewind a movie manually after watching it. Old construction processes are like clinging to the VHS era in a streaming world.
Even if you’re a newer company, you may be falsely influenced by older or larger legacy companies. Don’t assume you’re immune to the problem. We often lack the historical data or roadmap to guide us in the modern flow of things. We’re busy and it’s easy to put our heads in the sand and work the old way without recognizing the change happening around us.
Embracing the Change
When considering new technology be prepared to change processes, even if it means extra work. In construction, we know that a minor change in one department can ripple through others. As daunting as a company-wide shift may seem, it’s far better than relying on workarounds that rarely pan out and only cause future headaches.
Don’t be deterred by the enormity of the task. Even if you’re part of a larger, nationwide company. If you’ve fostered a culture that includes technology adoption and proper perception, this need not be an insurmountable challenge. I’ve personally guided our company through these changes. Though it seemed overwhelming initially the transition proved seamless. It left me wondering why I was worried in the first place.
We’re a younger, smaller company. We can pivot with more agility than older, larger firms. But we’re all in the same boat. At any scale, tech adoption might seem scary and unknown. With a supportive culture and a willingness to face our fears head on, we can shift our processes to align with modern technology. In the end, the leap forward isn’t just about technology. It’s about courage, reflection and embracing change – principles as timeless as construction itself.
It’s about building not just structures, but a business ready to face the future.
Toby Mitchell is the dynamic force behind Classic Electric & Consulting. He’s also the Construction Technology Committee Chair for ELECTRI International. With over 25 years of experience in the construction industry, Toby is no stranger to the intricate dance of construction operations. Recognized for his deep understanding of both hands-on construction and the integration of digital tools, Toby frequently advocates for the seamless fusion of communication and technology to achieve optimal project outcomes.
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