Here's how you can improve communication and learn from failure as a civil engineer in a team setting.

Open dialogue only works if the premise is guided by clear guidelines, evidence-based studies and approved codes. Multiples interpretations in a team setting may lead to confirmation biases leading to positive feedback loop where the design will get more and more subjective as the time progresses.

Encourage open discussions, conduct regular debriefs, and share lessons learned. Foster a blame-free culture, promote continuous learning, and utilize feedback constructively to enhance team communication and project outcomes.

Clear objectives for each team member with the culture of immediate feedback is highly imperative. You can't expect everyone to read their ToR and work accordingly, as interpretations may vary. Provide immediate feedback as a tool.

Embracing technology is important when the work is algorithmic and is mostly repetitive and less cognition-intensive. The design parameters to be used in the technology should be clearly guided by codes or evidence-based studies to avoid subjectivism in the design.

People can only learn from errors if there is a culture of "context-attribution" rather than "personal attribution". Errors can arise both from negligence as well as from the context/institution which is already in place.

Feedback loops are essential in civil engineering, fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Regular reviews pinpoint issues promptly, and open dialogue maintains accountability. Embrace honest feedback for collective project success. It’s a proactive approach that not only enhances the design process but also strengthens team dynamics, leading to innovative solutions and a robust end product. This practice is integral to achieving excellence in civil engineering projects.

Call it a feedback loop if you wish but the idea is from Demming's cycle of Plan Do Check Act (PDCA) and that has been in the engineering lexicon for 90 years. Perhaps it has been sidelined by inability or unfunded time to take that necessary reflection step... and should resurface with gusto.

Mentorship within engineering teams is a catalyst for growth. It bridges the gap between experience and potential, turning individual challenges into team triumphs. As seasoned engineers mentor, they don’t just transfer knowledge; they foster a culture of support and continuous learning. This collaborative environment not only sharpens skills but also forges stronger team connections, making every member an integral part of the collective success. It’s a sustainable approach that amplifies individual contributions for the greater good of the team and projects.