Here's how you can train your construction team to effectively use new technology.

Be prepared to sell the idea to it's end user. You may be the decision maker, but it's important to have the acceptance by the team doing the work. It's wise to introduce the product or service showcasing the benefits of how it'll save time, money or prevent injuries.

Assessing needs involves identifying the gaps between current conditions and desired outcomes. In training, it means understanding what skills or knowledge are lacking and determining what training is necessary to bridge these gaps. This step is crucial for developing targeted, effective training programs that meet specific objectives and enhance performance.

Training your construction team on new technology is crucial for maximizing productivity, efficiency, and project outcomes. Follow these steps for successful technology adoption and training: Identify needs, set objectives, select methods, provide hands-on experience, use vendor resources, create materials, offer support, encourage sharing, monitor progress, and evaluate effectiveness.

You must plant the seed that the new technology advances out there now will make site manager's jobs easier and more efficient. Smart devices, tablets, small laptops, etc are all geared toward mobility in the field. The days of the clipboard are in the past. By consolidated everything into a handheld device, knowledge is literally at your fingertips. Combine this with a proven construction software platform that your subs must utilize, and communication flows from manager to subcontractor. Communication is a necessary predecessor to jobsite efficiency. Never make an important hire without furnishing the necessary "tools". Efficiency in the field is tantamount to success. Site managers, know how to use these to your advantage.

I am not a micromanager. What I do from the start is hands on, 1 on 1 training with my crew. Then they do a day where they complete work while I coach. Then they go and work. I may spot check for QA. But all of the work is documented using photos that are time stamped and geo stamped. This doesn't really leave room for miscommunications. We have open chats during the day to address anomalies and progress issues. Once they are trained I expect that they are quite capable of performing their duties.

Planning training involves outlining a structured program tailored to meet specific needs identified in the assessment phase. It includes setting clear objectives, choosing the right training methods and materials, scheduling sessions, and allocating resources. Effective planning ensures that the training is relevant, engaging, and achieves the desired outcomes, leading to improved skills and knowledge.

Simplifying concepts means breaking down complex ideas into understandable parts, using clear language and practical examples. It's about making information accessible and relatable to learners, regardless of their prior knowledge. This approach helps ensure that everyone can grasp the key points, enhancing learning outcomes and ensuring the effective application of new skills or knowledge.

Hands-on practice is a crucial part of learning, providing learners with the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in real or simulated scenarios. It reinforces learning through doing, allowing for immediate feedback and adjustment. This method enhances retention, builds confidence, and prepares learners for practical application in their work or daily life, making the learning experience more effective and engaging.

There is a need to first, assess the technological needs of the project and the needs of the Team too. Understand which training is best for the project and not just the project but the self development of the team to boost productivity. Developing a training plan with timelines becomes essential as it would help direct their focus and commitment to the task. It's also necessary that they have complete practical sessions on their training, this helps to checkmate how well they understand the trainings. There is also a need to get feedback from them each time to assess their performance.Following them up to know their level of expertise on the training is essential, this helps you rate their performance and commitment to the project.

Encouraging feedback involves actively seeking input from learners about their training experience. It’s a vital step for understanding their perspectives, gauging the effectiveness of the training, and identifying areas for improvement. Openly inviting feedback creates a culture of continuous improvement and learning, making training programs more responsive to learners' needs and enhancing overall satisfaction and outcomes.

My crew has no issue providing feedback, positive or negative. It is all taken into consideration. Sometimes, after repetitive tasks, a tech comes and tells me he found a better way. My first response is "Awesome, show me!" Sometimes the task is not the issue, the end user is. This is where I explain to my crew to simply be polite and accomodating and, if need be, let me handle the end user situation. My crew are technicians and not Public Affair Officers. I don't expect them to have exceptional people skills. They don't need the added stress of dealing with people on top of performing their job on schedule and on budget. Be prepared to listen to your crew. Keep them happy. Keep them comfortable in their zone.