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Acknowledging the past, planning for the future. By Peter Rowland

and software. While there is an element of truth in that characterization, it is important to understand the genesis of this largely misguided perception.

Unlike other industries, where processes can be standardized and repeated, construction is inherently project-based. Each construction project is unique, with its own set of variables in terms of location, design, and stakeholders. Every project is the first of its kind in a unique environment; you’ re making an original prototype every single time. The truth is, the manufacturing sector would not even exist if you had to make a different prototype every day. Manufacturing is about continuity; in construction, it’ s just the opposite.

This variability means that a solution that works well on one project may not be suitable for another. The industry’ s reliance on project-based work creates an environment in which adopting innovative technologies or methodologies on a wide scale is especially challenging. Companies may be reluctant to invest in modern tools or software that may not be applicable across all their projects.

In addition, each project usually involves a variety of stakeholders: contractors, architects, engineers, subcontractors, suppliers,

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