Bridging the Gap: Insights & Innovations in Construction

The Product Platform Approach

Designers and engineers are under a lot of pressure to design all of our future infrastructure. In fact, it may be an impossible task right now. KOPE's Head of Industry Strategy Charlotte-Frances Garrett says that the product platform approach will be the silver bullet. She said that standardizing the way we build is a must. We don't have to reinvent the wheel with every new building.
Charlotte-Frances Garrett is the Head of Industry Strategy at KOPE. She is a qualified architect with extensive experience in the offsite sector having led on design, managed complex multidisciplinary teams and advised on the delivery of numerous projects across the UK.

Experience Fuels Our Organizations

Why is experience and wisdom a key for organizations? The wise fuel knowledge. We have to leverage experience so we avoid repeating the past and avoid making mistakes that come with time. Many organizations are asking the same question: how do we unlock and leverage the wealth of information that lies with seasoned veterans and how do we combine this with new technology hitting the market? Technology Consultant Catherine Walmsley dove into these questions during AU 2023.
Catherine Walmsley has her own firm where she reimagines what's possible with connected platforms. Her digital transformation leadership has been accelerating the design to delivery process in western Canada by working with builders using Autodesk products - connecting data from Inventor, Vault, Revit and the Autodesk Construction Cloud.
 

Function Over Flash

What if saving an hour a day could revolutionize the construction industry? DPR's Kyle Knauer explores this provocative idea. Discover how simple tech solutions are more than just time-savers; they're life-changers. Knauer delves into the challenges of integrating new technologies in construction, balancing flashy features with functional simplicity. This episode offers a deep dive into understanding user needs and adapting to varying project requirements, highlighting the transformative impact of technology in construction.
Kyle is an Integration Manager at DPR Construction servicing Phoenix and San Diego business units, along with national efforts related to construction technology. Kyle is coming up on his seventh year at DPR, where he started on the project management side until he switched roles to become an integration manager.

The Changing Purpose of Construction Sites

Has traditional construction changed for good? Industrialized construction and productization are creeping in. We're moving away from the old ways and stepping into a new realm of streamlined, efficient, and innovative building processes. 
This episode takes us through the seismic shift towards a productization mindset in construction. This change isn't just a trend; it's a necessity, offering significant gains in efficiency and sustainability. Our guest Bertrand de Peufeilhoux also explores how this evolution demands greater accountability and fosters enhanced communication among stakeholders. Tune in to understand how transparent communication is becoming the cornerstone of modern construction practices.
Bertrand de Peufeilhoux is a project manager at Bouygues Construction. He has a depth of experience in both structural engineering and software management, working on a number of high profile projects across France.

The Rapid Adoption of Industrialized Construction

Is the future of construction being built in the cloud? Listen in to find out. Brandon Ionata, a senior solution director at Graitec StrucSoft, discusses the evolving landscape of off-site construction and its integration with technology. He emphasizes the growing importance of cloud data connectivity, data sharing, and the convergence of construction and manufacturing. He highlights the shift towards more integrated and efficient construction processes, breaking down traditional industry silos. Ionata also touches on the role of software in enhancing coordination and collaboration, and the potential impact of AI and machine learning in optimizing manufacturing efficiency. 
Brandon Ionata is the Solution Line Senior Director for StrucSoft, a market leading wood and light gauge steel framing software. He has over two decades of industry experience and takes a solutions-based approach to customer challenges.

The Critical Role of GIS in Construction

Could deeper GIS integration simplify or complicate your projects? Are you overlooking potential efficiencies by not incorporating GIS data? Mortenson VDC Director Brian Nahas addresses these key questions.
Brian's conversation raises important questions about AI, deep learning, GIS, and their role in the future of construction. He suggests how evolving technologies, such as image recognition, might transform productivity tracking and project planning. Is the construction industry approaching a new era of data-driven, interconnected workflows? This episode goes beyond current technology, offering a glimpse into a future where construction could see significant advances in efficiency and project management.
Brian Nahas is an experienced Virtual Design & Construction leader with a demonstrated history of working in the construction industry across the U.S. on high-profile, complex sports venues, and an internal DfMA incubator, focused on rewriting the approach and enabling vertical integration.

AI Needs to Solve Practical Pain Points

The phrase "walk before you run" echoes throughout the industry right now. Autodesk's Senior Director of Global Customer Success Brandon LaCourciere says that with an influx of new tools hitting the market, we must solve practical problems. Adoption won't come from solving every problem all at once.
AI needs to solve practical pain points before it solves the big hairy challenges we often describe. These everyday life improvements will be the ones that convince the masses to adopt.
Brandon LaCourciere is Autodesk's Senior Director of Global Customer Success. He is responsible for overseeing the development and execution of ACS global customer success strategy to drive long-term customer retention and subscriber growth in a scalable manner. 

Align Your Strategies Early On

In this enlightening episode, we're joined by Hannu Lindberg from DPR Construction, a top U.S. general contractor known for its hands-on building approach and strong advocacy for technology integration in construction. Hannu brings his nearly two decades of experience to the table, discussing the challenges and strategies involved in bridging the gaps within the construction industry. He delves into the complexities of coordinating different construction disciplines, the importance of early integration in design processes, and the role of technology in enhancing efficiency and collaboration. Hannu's insights offer a deep dive into the evolving landscape of construction technology and the industry's journey towards more integrated and efficient practices.
Hannu Lindberg, a seasoned professional in the construction industry, serves in a pivotal construction technology role at DPR Construction. With a career spanning almost twenty years, Hannu's journey began with hands-on experience as an Assistant Superintendent, leading him to explore the intersection of construction and technology. His expertise lies in supporting preconstruction planning, scheduling, and advocating for the integration of technology in construction practices. Hannu's approach emphasizes the need for early involvement in the design process, advocating for a collaborative construction environment. His efforts are geared towards improving the predictability, consistency, and efficiency of construction projects, making him a valuable voice in the industry's technological evolution.

The State of Design and Make

What is the current state of design and make? Stephanie Losee and team have the data and the answers. In this episode we discuss the novel Design and Make Report, It highlights the enhanced performance and preparedness of digitally mature companies post-COVID-19, emphasizing their plans for further digital investments. The report also underscores the rapid workforce changes in recent years, equating them to historical shifts like the internet's advent. Additionally, it discusses the increasing corporate emphasis on sustainability and carbon neutrality, crucial for attracting environmentally conscious younger talent.
Stephanie Losee is the Director of Executive & ABM Content at Autodesk, helping people imagine, design and make a better world. Formerly the Senior Director of Content at Visa Communications, governing editorial content marketing/brand journalism, Executive Director of brand content at POLITICO and Managing Editor of Dell, directing editorial content strategy. She was also named a Holmes Report Top 25 Innovator., Marketing Insider Group Top Marketing Speaker and more.

Give Thanks and Keep Innovating

As families gather to celebrate Thanksgiving, we invite you to reflect on your blessings. While we're taking a brief hiatus this week, we wanted you to know that a big new series is just around the corner. If you need some inspiration in the meantime, check out our catalog of 225 episodes of innovation. Next time you listen, invite a friend along to share the journey of this great industry together.