4 Challenges of Generative Construction
Generative construction uses user inputs to determine the best possible solution for building. It offers many benefits and can address the core pain points that the construction industry grapples with. However, this revolutionary method of planning does not come without its challenges. This article will address the challenges of generative construction.
If you want to learn more about this topic, you can check out this article on generative construction from ALICE, a company that offers one of the best construction optioneering platforms on the market.
How generative construction is beneficial
Generative construction can account for how certain factors will affect a construction project’s plan and course of building. With this method, you have the ability of foresight and can respond more effectively to unforeseen circumstances.
With generative platforms analyzing data provided by users and offering recommendations on how to increase efficiency and reduce delays, overall project quality is increased. This allows companies to better meet client expectations.
By using generative construction, construction companies can also:
- Increase the safety of their projects
- Make more informed decisions
- Conserve time and resources
Due to generative construction’s ability to automate complicated processes and accurately simulate outcomes, workers can, as a result, focus on more important aspects of their projects while the platforms they’re using do the heavy lifting.
The challenges of generative construction
The challenges of generative construction have less to do with the method itself and more to do with how it’s perceived and dealt with. Here are a few key obstacles that companies often find themselves facing.
1. Resistance to adoption
Opposition to progression and change is nothing new, but it’s especially egregious within the construction industry, as the construction sector faces one of the lowest rates of technological adoption (despite the many revolutionary solutions available on the market).
Understanding the true nature of resistance is the key to solving the problem.
The majority of people who oppose change do so because it fosters uncertainty, which feeds dread in a sector that already deals with constant delays and excessive cost overruns.
Resistance can result in a decline in productivity and, occasionally, even a refusal to utilize new methods. Especially, as they may view the task as too troublesome when old methods are perceived as just fine. The problem, of course, is that older methods can be incredibly inefficient and counterproductive as they eat up time that could be better spent.
Dealing with resistance to technological change
To address this issue and encourage a shift in mindset concerning technology, it’s important to communicate how changes can be beneficial and how they can make work more productive or efficient. Some key points to touch on are how shifting methods with technological adoption can:
- Save time
- Liberate workers from laborious tasks
- Aid in error prevention
Make sure to take the time to address any worries or fears that workers may have.
Another possible solution to this problem is conducting a pilot program for new methods like generative construction. A pilot program might consist of just one person or a team carrying out a small-scale, short-term trial. This will help an organization see how a large-scale initiative might work in practice. It also aids in more seamless implementation in the case of the method being determined as useful.
A central worker should be responsible for launching the pilot program. This way they have firsthand knowledge of the new system to explain its advantages and how it will work. This individual can also act as a go-to resource for queries. Thus, can assist in resolving any possible problems before implementing the system completely.
Regardless of what strategies you employ, it’s important to foresee resistance to new methods. Then, come up with a strategy to deal with it. All too frequently, choices are made and then implemented without much thought. You greatly increase your chances of success by predicting issues and developing a plan to address them.
2. Lack of training
Another challenge of generative construction lies in implementation. It goes without saying that workers need the knowledge necessary to actually use technology that employs new methods like generative construction. However, all too often, a lack of training can end up causing confusion and frustration.
This becomes worse if the company doesn’t have access to a support expert. Businesses need proper training for personnel to reap the benefits of generative construction and maximize its potential.
How to train workers on technologies that use generative construction
To achieve proper implementation, consider having the person who first tested the platform write a beginner’s guide or training manual.
Of course, it’s important to consider that employees from different teams will likely be using different features and facets. Thus, make sure to personalize sections of the manual accordingly.
3. Unclear goals
Benefiting from the adoption of technology for generative construction only works if you’re clear on the objectives you hope to accomplish.
Knowing what you want to achieve makes it easier to explain why changes are occurring. Furthermore, it assists with determining how to work towards them via the use of technology. Otherwise, you run the risk of wasting your time, money, and resources while receiving little return on investment.
Clearing up goals for adoption
Decide on objectives for each department in your company. Then, communicate these objectives to your team and staff, as well as how technological adoption will facilitate these changes to make sure everyone is on board.
Make sure you go over any relevant concerns, as this will help workers feel heard and will encourage peace of mind.
4. Worries about expenses
Companies that want to take advantage of digitization and technological advancements may be hesitant to do so. This is often due to the substantial upfront monetary investment. It’s crucial to realize, however, that embracing new methods and technologies will allow for long-term savings of greater magnitude. Especially, as you enjoy increasing efficiency and less worker downtime.
Sticking to old methods can end up resulting in increased maintenance costs. It helps to think more about the future, adopting a perspective that allows you to focus more on return on investment.
Despite challenges, generative construction is immensely beneficial
These challenges continue to create obstacles in the adoption and implementation of technologies that utilize generative construction. Emphasizing its benefits can allow you to overcome them for better project delivery.
