Construction – I had the opportunity to chat with the VP of information technology for a leading Canadian based international construction company about their projects and how they build the facilities they build. It was a compelling conversation that opened my eyes to the magic that occurs behind the scenes. We’ve all driven by a construction site and seen those mobile site offices off to the side. You’ve probably noticed the bee hive of activity as experts move in and out of these offices getting their taskings, checking the details for the project or even chatting with other experts on the project. If you were to lift the roof on this site office, I think you’ll be surprised when you look inside. While the coffee maker is indeed a staple and the blueprint desk remains, but more often than not you’ll see a server or other computers located in the office. Blueprints, building schedule sheets, project plans, staffing workflows have all gone electronic. Collaboration technologies allow for realtime updates of project plans and blueprints. Technology has revolutionized the contruction business, increasing efficiencies and reducing errors. So when you pass that new building going up downtown, or that new overpass that is being built as part of the stimulus efforts, remember that this too is evidence of Canada’s Digital Economy.
