New technologies are being introduced into the construction field at a dizzying rate, literally forcing construction professionals to adopt or risk being outpaced by competitors. A recent On Center technology survey of more than 900 construction professionals revealed many business and technology adoption issues that the industry is struggling with, and what moves are being taken to effect change. We’ll explore these issues and help to equip construction professionals with the tools to understand what technology options are available, the language of technology and how to select and move an existing analogue business to a digital platform for an effective, and appropriate, construction technology solution.

Historically, the construction process has been governed by paper, in the form of architectural plans, takeoffs, estimates, spreadsheets and work orders. As our desktops moved to computer screens in the early 1990’s, a new software that seemed tailor-made for the estimating process entered the construction industry and has yet to yield its hold: Microsoft Excel. Excel is so ingrained in construction that whole generations of contractors have grown up with the concept that is it the best and only solution necessary. A well-known book, Construction Estimating Using Excel,(Peterson, 2011), cites its purpose as “give beginning estimators a basic understanding of how to use spreadsheets, such as Microsoft Excel, to increase their estimating productivity and reduce errors.” Most degree programs in construction and building technology also require coursework in Excel, indicating its pervasiveness in the field.