Strong Opinions, Loosely Held: The Secret Weapon for the Future of Construction
After years in the field dealing with outdated tools and tangled spreadsheets, I was sure I knew what needed to change. It was then I had the opportunity to build a one-size-fits-all platform from the ground up. I had strong opinions that this was the answer, and I wasn’t afraid to share them.
But about a year ago, something shifted.
Knowing Your Costs Is a Condition of Employment
In construction, we like to keep things straight. Steel’s either plumb or it’s not. Concrete passed the test or it didn’t. And when it comes to budget? As I was taught long ago, “Knowing your costs is a condition of employment.” That line has stuck with me for decades because it’s not just advice—it’s a mandate. If you don’t know your numbers, you don’t know your project.
But there’s always a catch.
The Learning Curve We Accept… Until It’s Tech
In construction, we expect there to be a learning curve. Whether it’s tying rebar, hanging pipe or laying track, we know it takes time for crews to get into their groove.
But, when we implement new construction technology, suddenly that same curve becomes a panic.
Why is it that we give our crews grace to learn how to build — but not our teams time to learn how to build better?
Riding the Wave: Why You Want to Be In Front of the Law of Diffusion
There is a popular law that is often cited in the world of technology: the Law of Diffusion of Innovation. It’s the idea that new technologies spread through society in a predictable wave-like pattern.
Of course, we’ve all heard how, in the world of technology, construction literally defines the laggard section of the curve.
Well, many in the industry, including myself, are tired of hearing that. So, let’s take a look at how the famously “resistant” construction industry can learn from this well-known Law.
It’s Time to Shift: Asset-Centric Construction
For far too long, construction has been confined within the boundaries of individual projects. So much so that “Project Management” is now a discipline all its own. We idolized things like Critical Path Scheduling, juggled the pieces of the Project Management Triangle and applauded the advent of Advanced Work Packaging. Yet, with all this project-centric fanfare, we've overlooked the very reason construction exists. The asset.
The Truth About Work-Life Balance: It’s Personal
Work-life balance is one of the most frequently discussed topics in modern work culture. We see it plastered on walls in offices everywhere as one of the most utilized of company core values.
But, for many it's arguably the most misunderstood value.
You see, balance is personal, ever-evolving and often radically different than the popular misconceptions. And now more than ever it is needed in construction.
Why Your ConTech Should Be Gaining Value—Not Losing It
If you’re thinking of your software the same way you think about a company truck—that is, as something that just loses value over time—you’re missing the entire point. The right ConTech appreciates in value. Not just because it gets newer, better features (which it absolutely should), but because its impact on your organization grows year after year.
That is, if you take care of it.
A Future Without Limits: Women are Elevating Construction
This happens to be Women in Construction Week, a phrase that both inspires and also disappoints. It’s inspiring because we take the time to celebrate the trailblazing women who have defied expectations, broken barriers and laid the foundation for a more inclusive and innovative industry. Yet, it’s disappointing in the fact that we still need a special week to celebrate.
So, as a father, I look at the construction industry today and still wonder: Is the industry evolving fast enough to embrace the talent she’ll bring?
Why Admitting Your Mistakes Builds Credibility (and How to Do It Right)
Mistakes happen. Period. In construction, in leadership, in life—they’re just inevitable. But what separates great people from mediocre ones isn’t avoiding mistakes; it’s how they handle them.
The willingness to admit mistakes upfront doesn’t make you weak, on the contrary it shows honesty; it builds credibility, fosters trust and strengthens teams. I know, this sort of idea flies in the face of the traditional machismo mindset in construction—the ole’ “just figure it out and don’t let anyone see you sweat” approach—but hear me out.
Why Big Tech Keeps Failing at Construction Tech (and What to Look for Instead)
Let’s say you’re in the market for new technology to support your construction business. It’s easy to be drawn to the big names in Silicon Valley - the global hub of innovation, home to trillion-dollar companies that have transformed entire industries. On the surface, it makes sense. Why wouldn’t the tech giants, with their vast resources and cutting-edge solutions, be the best choice?
Well, if your challenge involves construction or capital project management, you might be looking in the wrong place.
The Strongest Muscle in Construction: The Heart
When you start to consider what muscle might be the strongest for use on a project, there are likely a few core groupings that come to mind. The arms, the legs or even the back all make excellent arguments for the top spot. But if we’re being honest with ourselves, none of these muscles mean a darn thing when it comes to surviving the often-cruel environment of construction.
What then, is the strongest muscle in construction?
The One Skill That Sets You Apart (and Most People Overlook)
In a world that prioritizes technical expertise, certifications and specialized knowledge, one skill quietly outshines them all - problem solving. Yet, despite its importance, it remains one of the most overlooked skills in the workplace. Why? Because problem-solving isn’t always easy to quantify.
But want to know the best part? Problem-solving skills can be developed over time.
Why Most Digital Transformations Fail (and Three Steps to Fix it)
Digital transformation is the promised shiny beacon of hope to solve all your company's problems and revolutionize operations. But the facts are, four of five digital transformations fail.
Well, they don’t just fail, they fail spectacularly.
How do you ensure your company’s digital transformation is that one that delivers on its promise?
Out-of-the-Box Platforms are Stifling Innovation
The idea of a one-size-fits-all, out-of-the-box platform solution is a myth. That’s right, the tech junky said it. Construction technology has created its own monster.
The “platform” concept as we know it is stifling innovation.
But there’s a solution right under our nose. Don’t believe me? I’ll prove it to you.
Allow Myself to Introduce Myself
Did you ever have that moment? You know, the one where the clouds part and the voices sing loud and all of a sudden you know exactly what you’re supposed to do in life?
Me neither.
From growing up on Lego to working on TD Ameritrade Park, this is my journey of blending tech, construction, and innovation. Dive into insights, humor, and a love for building a better industry in TheEngiNerdLife.
