Why Be Optimistic About 2023 If You Work in Construction

It’s time we all started feeling the benefits of a post-COVID society, starting with the construction industry. Lockdown has forced many of us to roll our digital sleeves up and upskill our technical knowledge to adapt to new ways of working - for good. 

Change can be scary, but stepping out of comfort zones is key to growing a business and sustaining its success. And if you’re a woman thinking about breaking into this industry, then you might want to read on. 

Why is digital transformation important? 

In the past there have been digital skill gaps within the construction industry, with many still relying on traditional pen-to-paper methods to wade their business through a rapidly digitalising  industry. 

Although the thought of digital transformation can be daunting, it is certain to make a positive impact on productivity and efficiency, as well as allowing businesses to keep up with the industry around them. There are plenty of resources online to help the digitalisation process, even with baby steps to help those starting from scratch. 

Technical drawings, simple prices

As an example, there are increasing numbers of companies using Building Information Modelling (BIM) to construct plans for large scale jobs which can help to calculate measurements, products needed, structure, design and more. 

Here at Cotterill Civils, we offer a free drawing take off service whereby we can draft plans and drawings for projects to calculate the lowest cost products for the customer based on dimensions and size. This is an excellent resource to take advantage of as it secures the lowest price and perfect product at no extra cost. This service would not be possible without the digitisation of our sales operations. Please contact us on 0121 351 3230 if this is of interest.

Up in the clouds

Sometimes it's the smallest changes which can have the biggest impact. Switching from lengthy and confusing email threads to a company-wide accessible cloud system such as Google Drive can allow colleagues on site to access important files quickly and easily, and even download files if they are offline. 

Having a phone or tablet onsite where the contractor can access technical drawings, invoices or other important information prevents having to make unnecessary calls to the office and maintains a professional appearance. 

And let’s not forget the importance of looking after the environment; the less paper used the better, especially in an industry which is consistently looking for positive environmental solutions. 

Social media…in construction? 

A greater number of marketing opportunities will present themselves once a business has digitally transformed. This includes developing and growing an online presence through social media platforms and email. By utilising social media platforms which are free to use, businesses can further benefit from being online by promoting their practises and showing the customer just how easy it is to do business with them. 

2023 is the year to get involved in social media for business, and reap the benefits from platforms such as Instagram and Tik Tok which are free by jumping on the bandwagon of dance trends, viral trends and much more. This humanises the workforce and allows everyone involved to have a bit of fun, and isn’t that what we want this year? 

It’s time to diversify 

Lastly, if you’re a woman thinking about getting involved in the construction industry, then there’s a new initiative in the home building market. The Home Builders Federation are offering a new employment programme to help address the gender gap within the construction industry. They offer support with childcare and training costs, as well as one-to-one training sessions and so much more. 

In 2023 it really should be a priority to diversify the workplace, especially in male-dominated industries. 

Did you know that only 16% of the workforce in construction represent women? There should be equal opportunities for people of all backgrounds and talents, there is room for everyone in this ever expanding industry. 

Watch this space for 2023 - the year that the construction industry finally hurtle themselves into the digital age, assert their online presence and diversify their workforces. This industry is built on excellent teamwork, organisation and hard graft - all things which we can expect to continue and develop in 2023. Despite big changes going on in the world, we’ll all get through it together with these qualities and beyond. 

 For specialist advice on civils and drainage supplies, please contact our experts here at Cotterill Civils on 0121 351 3230.