Modern surveying practices are essential now, not just for the next generation
With Generation Z entering the workplace it is time for companies to realise the benefits that new technology can bring.
This generation has never known a world without technology. Born between 1995 and 2010, they are used to technology that seamlessly integrates with their lives, accessing whatever they need ‘on demand’.
They can engage with highly complex software and ways of working, which is seen as ‘modern’ to a construction industry that is still adapting to the benefits and use of technology.
Changing to meet these expectations will allow the industry to attract the next generation into the workforce. However, this is not just about recruitment. Getting this right will improve businesses today.
A future with technology
Tempting Generation Z to join your organisation could involve changing your processes, the ways that you communicate and the technology you use.
Doing this successfully will rely on a cultural change which takes time. Companies need to start the process now. Not only will this attract the next generation into your workplace, but it will make huge differences for your existing workforce.
Many companies in construction will benefit from upgrading their technology and software by delivering efficiencies in the short to medium term that will transform the daily working lives of their employees.
Changing approaches
Take a surveyor, for example.
Their current day involves preparing contracts, running cost analysis of maintenance and repair work, analysing completed work and arranging the payment of contractors, allocating work to contractors, site visits and the assessment and projection of future work.
This is already a change from the traditional role of a surveyor. In times gone by, surveyors would only become involved toward the end of a project. Their role focused on measurement, cost of construction and the pre- and post-tender management process. Before the development of sophisticated technology, spending a considerable amount of time on manual processes was part of the quantity surveying role.
The modern surveyor
While the focus on measurement, cost of construction and pre- and post-tender management remains the same, the role of quantity surveyors has moved with technological changes and the focus on sustainability within the industry. The modern quantity surveyor role now includes risk management, construction project management, finance, contract administration and services surrounding sustainability, the environment and the law.
Estimating software allows surveyors to make accurate automatic calculations, provides quick access to the cost of materials and makes pricing construction projects easier, which simplifies the process of bidding for construction projects. The software also streamlines the handover process from estimators to quantity surveyors, eliminating the need to duplicate effort and re-enter the same information.
The future is now
Invest in your business and you will be rewarded with improved efficiency and a significant boost to productivity levels. Estimating software eliminates the possibility of duplicated effort and assists with better cost control, improving profit margins. Estimating software can also automate administrative tasks, freeing up your employees’ time for estimating.
There is also technology available which helps to monitor business performance, providing insights into its future performance by revealing patterns and trends, helping you to make smarter business decisions.
It will also prepare you for the longer term, making you an attractive proposition for Generation Z. This will bring forward-thinking, proactive, hardworking employees into your organisation who can further the technological advancement of your business.
