Construction Goes High-Tech: Navigating the Challenges of Technology Contractors

As the business world continues to evolve, technology systems are becoming an integral part of modern buildings. This has created a unique challenge for general contractors (GCs), who must not only manage the teams that build the structural components of buildings but also oversee the complex technology systems that are at the heart of these modern marvels. In this article, we will explore the critical areas that GCs need to focus on to effectively manage technology contractors and ensure the successful integration of technology systems into modern buildings. Whether you are a GC or IT project manager within a business organization, the strategies outlined in this article will help you improve your ability to manage technology contractors and ensure that technology installations meet the needs of your clients.

THE EDGE

The Edge is an iconic building in Amsterdam, known for being one of the most sustainable and technologically advanced buildings in the world. It was designed to be a smart building, where advanced technology systems are seamlessly integrated into the building's infrastructure, creating a comfortable and productive environment for its occupants. The Edge stands as a testament to the potential of technology in modern architecture and construction, and its design has set a new standard for sustainable buildings.

During its construction, The Edge faced many challenges, including integrating cutting-edge technology systems into its design, while also ensuring the building was structurally sound and met sustainability goals. The result was a building that utilizes a variety of advanced systems, including an array of over 28,000 sensors that continuously monitor environmental factors such as light, temperature, humidity, and carbon dioxide levels. These sensors are used to adjust the building's systems in real-time to optimize energy consumption and create a comfortable workspace for occupants.

In addition to the sensor network, The Edge features an app that allows occupants to personalize their workspace and access features such as parking, meeting rooms, and even bicycles. The building's lighting system is also designed to mimic natural light, reducing energy consumption while improving the well-being of occupants.

Other advanced technology systems installed in The Edge include a Building Automation System (BAS), which controls the building's HVAC, lighting, and security systems, and a laboratory information management system (LIMS), which helps researchers track samples and data. The building is also equipped with an energy-efficient data center, which utilizes advanced cooling technologies to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions.

As technology systems continue to advance, buildings like The Edge are becoming more and more common in the business environments we all work in today. General contractors face a unique challenge in managing the teams that build everything from the foundations and steel structures supporting these buildings, while also managing the complex and elaborate technology systems at the heart of these wonders of structural engineering and technological wonder. In the following sections, we will discuss three critical areas that can help GCs better work with their technology contractors to ensure the successful integration of technology systems into modern buildings.

Working with Technology Contractors on your Projects

Technology systems are revolutionizing the way we work and live. From smart buildings to advanced manufacturing processes, technology is changing every aspect of modern life. However, someone has to build and install these systems. This is where general contractors (GCs) come in. GCs face a unique challenge of not only managing the teams who build everything from the foundations and steel structures supporting these buildings but also managing the complex and elaborate technology systems at the heart of these wonders of structural engineering and technological innovation.

Managing technology contractors is a tall order, and it requires a different approach than working with the more traditional trades. GCs need to be able to understand the technical requirements and standards of these systems and coordinate the work of technology contractors with other trades. This can be a complex process, and GCs need to be able to foster an environment of collaboration and cooperation to ensure that everyone is on the same page.

Furthermore, technology systems are constantly evolving, and GCs need to be able to adapt to these changes. This requires a detailed project plan that outlines the timelines, milestones, and responsibilities for the project. GCs need to be able to communicate this plan to all stakeholders involved in the project and regularly review and update it to ensure that the project stays on track.

In short, managing technology contractors is no easy feat, but it is critical for the success of modern buildings and facilities. GCs need to be able to take a different approach to working with technology contractors and be able to establish technical requirements and standards, foster collaboration and cooperation, and develop a detailed project plan to ensure the successful integration of technology systems into modern buildings.

As Technology Changes Inevitably we will have to Change too

As technology continues to advance, so do the buildings and facilities that we inhabit. This means that general contractors (GCs) now face new challenges when it comes to managing not only the physical construction of these structures but also the complex and elaborate technology systems that are essential to their operation.

To succeed when working with technology contractors, there are three critical areas that GCs must focus on. They must establish clear technical requirements, fostering collaboration and cooperation, and developing a detailed project plan.

Establish Clear Technical Requirement:

Firstly, it's important to establish clear technical requirements and standards by working closely with technology contractors to develop technical specifications. Regularly reviewing these requirements is necessary, as technology systems will evolve and change over time.

Establishing clear technical requirements is a crucial first step when working with technology contractors. It's important to note that this doesn't necessarily mean that the GC needs to be the expert on every aspect of the technology systems being installed. However, the GC does need to facilitate and document the technical requirements by working closely with the technology contractors and their stakeholders.

The first step is to identify the technical systems that will be installed and determine what technical specifications and standards are needed. This will involve working with the technology contractors to define the requirements and ensuring that all stakeholders involved in the project have a clear understanding of what is required.

It's important to note that technology systems can be complex and require a high level of technical expertise. Therefore, it's essential that the GC and technology contractors work collaboratively to develop these technical requirements. By doing so, the GC can ensure that the technology installations meet the needs of their clients and that they are completed successfully.

Regularly reviewing and updating the technical specifications and standards is also critical. As technology systems evolve and change over time, it's important to ensure that these requirements continue to meet the needs of the project. This will require ongoing communication and coordination with the technology contractors throughout the project.

Ultimately, the key to establishing clear technical requirements is to work collaboratively with the technology contractors and stakeholders. By doing so, the GC can ensure that the technology systems being installed meet the needs of their clients and are completed successfully.

Fostering Collaboration and Cooperation:

Secondly, fostering collaboration and cooperation is essential. This requires open communication and regular coordination meetings to ensure that everyone involved in the project is aware of changes that may impact their work. By working collaboratively with technology contractors, GCs can build a more effective working relationship and ensure that everyone is on the same page.

It's important for GCs to understand that changes to the construction plan can have a significant impact on the technology systems being installed. For example, a change in the location of a wall or the design of a room can impact the wireless system design, access control systems, or digital signage, requiring adjustments to be made by the technology contractors.

These changes can be costly and time-consuming, which is why it's critical to involve technology contractors early in the planning stages. By doing so, the GC can ensure that any potential issues are identified early on, and adjustments can be made to the technology systems to accommodate the changes in the construction plan.

Regular coordination meetings between GCs and technology contractors are also essential to ensure that everyone is aware of any changes to the project and how they may impact the technology systems being installed. This allows the technology contractors to adjust their work accordingly and prevent delays or cost overruns.

Fostering collaboration and cooperation is critical in these situations. GCs must work closely with technology contractors to ensure that any changes to the construction plan are communicated effectively, and any issues that arise are addressed promptly. By doing so, GCs can ensure that the technology systems being installed meet the needs of their clients and are completed successfully, even in the face of changing construction plans.

Developing a Detailed Project Plan

Finally, developing a detailed project plan is critical. This plan should outline timelines, milestones, and responsibilities to help GCs manage technology contractors more effectively. Communicating this plan to all stakeholders involved in the project is crucial to ensure that everyone is aware of what is expected and can help keep the project on track.

Developing a detailed project plan is essential when working with technology contractors. However, it's important to note that developing a project plan for technology systems can be different from traditional trades. This is because technology systems often have their own unique requirements and specifications that need to be accounted for in the project plan.

To develop a detailed project plan for technology systems, GCs must work closely with technology contractors and their stakeholders to identify the key milestones, timelines, and responsibilities for the project. This may involve establishing technical specifications and standards for the technology systems and identifying any potential issues that may arise during the project.

Unlike traditional trades, technology systems may also require additional testing and commissioning to ensure that they are working correctly. This means that the project plan may need to account for additional time and resources to perform these tests and ensure that the technology systems are functioning as intended.

To ensure the success of the project plan, GCs must communicate it clearly to all stakeholders involved in the project. This will help to ensure that everyone is aware of the project timeline, responsibilities, and milestones. It's also important to review and update the project plan regularly to account for any changes or new developments in the project.

Ultimately, developing a detailed project plan for technology systems requires collaboration and communication between GCs, technology contractors, and stakeholders. By taking the time to develop a detailed plan that accounts for the unique requirements of technology systems, GCs can ensure that the project is completed successfully and that the technology systems meet the needs of their clients.

Are you ready for what is next?

We've explored how technology systems are becoming increasingly important in modern buildings and facilities. We looked at The Edge, one of the most technologically advanced buildings in the world, and how it showcases the role technology plays in creating truly innovative spaces.

General contractors (GCs), managing technology contractors can be a complex and challenging process. It requires a different approach than managing traditional trades. We discussed three critical areas that can help GCs successfully manage technology contractors, including establishing technical requirements and standards, fostering collaboration and cooperation, and developing a detailed project plan.

By taking actionable steps in these areas, GCs can ensure that technology installations are completed successfully and meet the needs of their clients. They can also ensure that any changes in the construction plan are effectively communicated, and any issues are addressed promptly, to keep the project on track.

At TechNet, we understand the challenges that GCs face when managing technology contractors. As a national technology contractor, we have experience working with some of the largest and most prominent companies in the world. Our team of experts is dedicated to helping GCs successfully navigate the complex world of technology installations and ensure that their projects are completed on time and within budget.

If you're a GC looking for a reliable technology contractor for your next project, consider partnering with TechNet. We would be honored to help you create your next engineering and technological masterpiece. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you bring your vision to life.

Article by:?Ryan Hardesty

Ryan Hardesty is an experienced executive in the technology integration space, with over 15 years of experience managing major projects for well-known entities such as?Amazon,?Facebook, and?Qualcomm. As the Executive Vice President at?TechNet, Ryan leads teams responsible for managing and maximizing business performance through strategic planning and execution. With his extensive experience in project management and engineering, Ryan has become a respected figure in the industry, bringing together teams of experts and effectively managing complex projects. Additionally, Ryan is a dedicated family man who enjoys volunteering with the?YMCA?Adventure Guides, coaching youth sports, camping, and spending time outdoors.