BST Global’s report on the State of the AEC Project Lifecycle showed that the Architectural, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) sector is still accumulating data through all phases of its operations, but is remaining incredibly inefficient at processing — and getting the benefits of — this data. While project documentation is on the rise, many firms are still using old-school strategies such as paper spreadsheets to track work, leading to increased operational inefficiencies as well as reduced project success.
Inefficiencies are just one of the disadvantages of poor use of big data, with poor insight into project-related issues, lack of resource utilization, and limited ability to collaborate effectively also impacting project processes. What is even more concerning is that these inefficiencies were found at nearly every stage of project development, from the bidding process through collaboration to change orders and beyond. These issues contribute significantly to revenue leakage, dissatisfied customers, and an inability to maximize billable time for wider project profit margins. Fortunately, AEC firms that are committed to using business automation tools can reduce these negative effects on their businesses and start capitalizing on the advantages of data visibility.
How Business Automation Brings Significant Advantages to the AEC Table
AEC projects are notably complex and made more so by the siloing of information that limits data accessibility. A seamless flow of information is critical for collaboration, but currently, there are many stages during the project process where information is held at choke points due to data silos. When surveyors are using one product to create data, but engineers are using another, and contractors yet another, transferring and transforming this information becomes difficult, time-consuming, and fraught with error. With business automation tools such as document management, enterprise content management systems, and even managed services such as Managed IT and Managed Print, data silos can be overcome for smoother project management and more on-time, on-budget project completions.
Ways that these tools bring advantages to the AEC table include:
Increased Visibility
The current status of projects is often difficult to discern when data is siloed or if it is not being received in real-time. Most AEC executives are getting hard copy status updates on a weekly or monthly basis, but by that time, the information is already obsolete. Business process automation can streamline workflows and make data accessible instantly, providing better visibility and more useful insights that can improve project performance.
Better Control
When data is spread over many applications, systems, and workflows it can be hard to control overall operations, let alone individual projects. When information flows are not standardized or connected, it is nearly impossible to get control over all the data pertaining to a project. Streamlining business processes through process automation can help introduce a more collaborative landscape that supports efficiency, productivity, and even amplifies potential revenues.
Improved Performance
Project performance is critical to a company’s reputation — and to keeping customers coming back and referrals coming in. When visibility and control are both improved, business performance can accelerate. With better access to critical data in real-time, project timelines and budgets can be pinpointed, and small issues can be resolved before they impact the project’s successful completion — or your company’s bottom line.
Blue Technologies Provides a Full Suite of Managed Services
For most AEC companies, there is no quick fix to the data accessibility issue. It requires keen analysis and a smart, forward-thinking strategy that involves all elements of your work environment, from basic infrastructure to software, peripherals, and other components of your communications hub.
That is why Blue Technologies offers a team of experts with leading-edge knowledge and tools that encompass all areas of business automation — from in-house IT assistance to state-of-the-art software to manage your data, documents, and even print strategies. Our team can evaluate your current infrastructure against your business needs and challenges to create a custom-tailored solution that targets performance, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.
Streamline your workflows with powerful business automation tools. Contact a Blue Technologies consultant and learn how our suite of services and technology can enhance the performance of your AEC firm.
