3 Key Ways the Construction Industry Has Changed for the Worse in the Last Decade
Anyone who’s been involved in construction for more than a decade would likely agree that the industry has changed significantly. However, when you want to pin down how it’s changed – and why – it becomes more difficult. At ECL Software, we take the best of the past and the innovations of the future to create a variety of construction software products, including fund control. That said, we also think it’s important to look at how things haven’t progressed to learn from those lessons.
A move from collaborative processes
In the past, it was common for several members of a construction team to sit down and hash out a schedule that everyone was involved in. Today there’s a more disjointed process in which subcontractors submit schedules electronically and who knows who has access to it. With so many different schedules submitted, it can be difficult or impossible to know which one a member of the team is using.
The good news is that there are options to combat this problem. For example, our JDIO software program makes working with numerous team members a seamless process. We can help your team better utilize this product, just reach out online or contact us at 800-625-5972.
A shift in resource management
Another significant change is in the way resources are managed. It used to be that general contractors did a lot of the work that specialty trade contractors are now doing. It used to be that a general contractor handled most aspects of a construction project, which meant that the financial risk was on their shoulders for both labor overruns and project management. This helped keep them on task.
Today, with general contractors no longer involved in as many aspects of a project, it’s easier to puss off the blame. The bottom line is that it was easier for general contractors to manage all their laborers under one roof than it is to handle a number of specialty contractors and their individual teams. Why? Because a subcontractor is concerned about their own profitability, rather than the group’s success.
A fear of litigation
In today’s world of constant litigation, there can be a significantly lack of transparency when it comes to data and information. Contractors can be understandably guarded about transferring data and this can limit the ability of a manager to get the details they need. This further affects the schedule process because contractors are so afraid of litigation and loss that they may simply refuse to show any delays.
While these changes haven’t always worked out for the best, there are many ways the construction industry has moved forward in a positive way. If you’re ready to find out about the future of collaboration today, then reach out to us at 800-625-5972 or visit our website. We offer software designed specifically for the construction industry that’s made to make your life easier.
Recent Comments