It is not surprising that some industries face IT issues given how dependent organizations are on technology nowadays, especially if their employees lack experience with computer-related tasks in their regular jobs. We are aware that having a solid understanding of IT is not necessary for success in the construction industry. However, given the level of competition today, we are confident that your company is making every effort to keep up with the developments as IT is being utilized as a tool to improve the efficiency and accuracy of daily operations.
Although digitalization is generally acknowledged to be advantageous to a company’s operations, many businesses are still wary about implementing it. Did you know? 39% of businesses are worried about how to integrate new technologies generally, while 45% believe they will have trouble integrating them with existing systems.
Here are the top 10 Challenges in IT that the construction industry is facing:
Slow adaptation to new technology
The construction industry’s reluctance to adopt new approaches, including technologies that may very well increase worker productivity, is one of the issues that the industry faces. Even when construction companies see the potential benefits of technology solutions, their budgets for new hardware and software often remain fairly modest.
Project Delays
When a project is delayed, several contributing elements, such the weather, the nationwide labor shortage, and equipment breakdowns, cannot be controlled. Yet, there are undoubtedly some elements that can be avoided, such as scheduling difficulties, project incompatibilities, and inaccurate data. Human mistakes can happen to even the most careful and attentive project managers. Reducing the need for manual management through the use of technology is one of the best methods to control risk.
Outdated Software and Technology
Many businesses use outdated technology in the mistaken belief that they are saving money by forgoing investments in modern infrastructure. And although doing so might save you money on purchases, your budget might suffer in other ways. According to studies, businesses that use antiquated technology suffer financial losses due to lower staff morale and efficiency. There is no reason to test that in a situation where staff retention is already a problem because workers demand the appropriate tools for the task.
Your old technology is less likely to operate with new equipment you buy since usage and maintenance expenses rise as equipment gets older. It’s likely that your software is also out-of-date if your hardware is. You find yourself working with outdated software that is not only less effective but can also expose your company to security risks because newer software might not be compatible with your antiquated hardware.
Cybersecurity
Due to the breach of sensitive information, cyberattacks can paralyze business activities and expose your organization to liabilities from staff, suppliers, and clients. Cyberattacks in the construction industry can take the form of hackers breaking into your system and obtaining confidential company information, customer and employee data, pricing data, and sensitive financial records.
A recent poll indicated that more than 75% of respondents in the fields of construction, engineering, and infrastructure have encountered some form of cybersecurity issue within the past year, so even if you think it couldn’t happen to you, be aware that the threat is real.
Employee Adoption and Productivity
Today’s executives in the construction industry have been hesitant to adopt new technology because it is unfamiliar to them because many of them did not grow up with modern technology. In order to get every user “up to speed” and teach them how to use technology to improve operational processes, it’s crucial that your IT service provider also offer the assistance and training required. When done correctly, this will also increase productivity and employee morale.
Communication
Communication is becoming an ever-more-important component of the construction business as technology develops. Construction companies must stay up to date in these areas to remain competitive. Tools like building information modeling (BIM) software, 3D printing, and artificial intelligence will all continue playing a more major role on construction sites. Better tools, including smartphones and tablets preloaded with the appropriate apps, enable fast access to data obtained in the field, enhancing communication.
Managing Documentation
Even if “paperwork” is now hardly ever completed on real paper, it is nevertheless an essential step in the business process. A more efficient workflow that allows for real-time collaboration and clearer version control is made possible by having the appropriate software and file management systems in place, as well as making sure they permit sharing between office staff and those working on-site.
You can develop a documentation process that fits with your current processes and makes it easier for everyone to have the most recent, precise data at their fingertips with the help of the right IT service provider.
Technology Costs
Contractors agree that industry-wide risks associated with rising material and labor costs are important, therefore the additional expense of incorporating technology frequently causes hesitation. There are unquestionably related expenditures for procurement, deployment, and training. But once it’s in place, technology can be used to boost productivity, boost earnings, and eventually save costs. This problem can be addressed if you outsource your IT instead of hiring onsite IT personnel.
Cash Flow
Cash flow is frequently the determining factor in what you can accomplish for any firm. Building new infrastructure costs a lot of money and can tie up key resources. Surprise costs, though, can make you act if you’re using outdated equipment and crossing your hopes that nothing breaks. Because of this, choosing the correct IT service provider can help you save time and money.
Lack of Dedicated IT Departments
Without a designated leader, it might be challenging to make the right software investments or put together effective steering committees for desperately needed technologies. This is a problem because tech adoption calls for competent staff who can champion new products, answer inquiries, and boost internal usage. On the other hand, some companies are now relying on outsourced IT departments because they are sure that these IT experts can deliver the precisely needed support. You can have peace of mind because these people don’t need to be trained as they are already skilled and dedicated to solve your tech problems.
Your company can do so much more and be secured from future threats if you learn how to overcome these challenges. One great thing to help your business is to outsource your IT to a reputable company, not only will you save time and increase productivity, you will also be saving a lot of money and secure your company’s data.
If you have questions on how Intelecis can help you overcome these challenges, feel free to contact us today.
