If you’re in the AEC industry, you've heard it countless times: "Digitize or get left behind." Easier said than done, right?
 

Having navigated both sides of this shift, from boots and hardhat in the field to working in AEC tech, I know firsthand that the transition can feel overwhelming. But here’s the secret: digitizing your workflows doesn't have to disrupt your entire operation. Instead, think of it as unlocking new levels of efficiency, accuracy, collaboration and reducing risk.

Here are a few practical steps I've found based on my AEC experience and also change management training that can be crucial for successful digital transformation and change management in AEC:

Start Small & Scale Up
Don't overhaul everything at once. Begin with high-impact, low-disruption areas—like field data collection or site inspections. Tools like SiteMarker can be a straightforward starting point because they require minimal training and setup.

Prioritize Ease of Use
Pick digital tools your team can adopt easily. Remember, the goal isn't complexity; it's clarity. If your tech requires extensive training, reconsider your choice.

Clear Communication Wins
Your team must understand the "why" behind digitization—not just the "how." Show them tangible benefits: fewer errors, saved hours, improved communication. Make it relatable and practical.

Champions & Support Identify internal champions who are excited about tech and can help lead the transition. They’ll be crucial in troubleshooting, encouraging adoption, and providing peer-to-peer support.

Integrate & Automate
Use digital tools and workflows tools that integrate with existing systems. Integrations with platforms like Autodesk Construction Cloud or Procore not only enhance efficiency but also minimize disruptions to existing workflows.

Feedback Loops
Regularly check in with your team to understand their experiences and adjust your strategy accordingly. Digitization isn’t a one-and-done; it’s a journey of continuous improvement. Its been said many times before, evolution, not revolution.

Embracing digital transformation thoughtfully can boost your team’s productivity and reduce project risks. Change is rarely easy, but with the right approach, it becomes manageable—and beneficial.