The digital construction skills podcast.

In this episode, we are joined by Matt Lacey from Survey Tech to find out all about Ground Penetrating Radar- what it does, what it is used for, and what support and training are available to get the most out of the equipment. 00:00 Introduction to Matt and Survey Tech 03:20 An overview of GPR Technology- what we can do with it and what we use it for 05:00 Putting GPR into the construction context- from utility mapping to reinforcement surveys 08:00 Use case- Bank of England refurb project 10:00 How Augmented Reality can work with GPR 10:56 The difference between GPR and a cover meter 13:00 GPR terminology- line scanning, area scanning, data processing, and image creation 17:40 What surface and ground conditions can GPR be used on 18:47 Key benefits of using GPR Technology 20:00 Making sense of the hyperbola generated on GPR readouts. 23:00 How GPR technology compares with and compliments (but does not replace!) Genny & CAT tool for detecting buried services 25:40 Using GPR with GNSS (Geolocating Technology) and Machine Control 27:50 GPR and digital twins. 30:00 GPR software packages overview and applications. How to get the data readouts into intelligible, useable information. 37:20 The training and skills required to use a GPR effectively. 38:20 How to get the most out of the technology. 40:10 How to get in touch with Matt and Surveytech. More info about Survey Tech Geomax Survey Equipment Hire & Purchase | Survey Tech (survey-tech.co.uk) Survey Tech YouTube channel-(some fantastic informative videos for you to check out) Surveytech - YouTube The Ground Penetrating Radar and software Matt refers to on the Podcast is Proceq Screening Eagle. More info at this link Proceq GS8000 | Subsurface mapping (screeningeagle.com) --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/christopher-g-grant/message

Everything you need to know about getting started with reality capture tools.   Fil Ntagadakis is a reality capture specialist and director of Scotia Survey and Safety. Fil is highly regarded in the UK Construction Industry for his encyclopedic knowledge of survey equipment and reality capture tools.   In this podcast, we focus on reality capture from a viewpoint of someone from the trades, building services or finishes, and interior fit-out perspective and why there is a great opportunity to increase business productivity and efficiency, reduce risk, add value and new skills and capabilities.   2:00 What we mean by reality capture- why it is not just for site engineers and surveyors and why it can be useful for the trades, buildings and fit-out sector   5:00 Overview of reality capture- from cameras and mobile phones to drones and laser scanning   9:11 Practical applications of reality capture for trades, building, and fit-out sector.   13:15 What we can do with data captured and how it can be repurposed for other things that could benefit your business.   19:00 Drones: how they can be operated on-site.   22:20 How to get started with drones- how much do they costs and practical advice on taking the next small step.   Part 2 of this interview will focus on laser scanning and the training and support available to get the skills to operate a laser scanner and how to manage drones within a construction context. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/christopher-g-grant/message

If we’re to get to grips with the vision set out by construction leaders and governments for the construction industry, we need to make sense of the language commonly used in information management – and urgently, as evidenced by the latest policy paper from the Infrastructure and Projects Authority, Transforming Infrastructure Performance: Roadmap to 2030. So, where do we start? In this podcast, I spoke with George Harold, CEO and co-founder of Integrated Facilities Solutions (IFS), to get an overview of some of the basic concepts and language used in the process of information management.  Listen in to find out:   What we mean by the Common Data Environment – and what it’s used for.   What the BIM standards do and how they help asset owners and operators better manage their facilities.   How digital twin technology will be used by asset owners and operators in the future – and what this means for the supply chain.   Why understanding terms like ‘interoperability’ and ‘Applied Programme Interface (API)’ is important.  The difference between ‘digitisation’ and ‘digitalisation’ – and why we should never use the terms interchangeably.   How we begin to get rid of the boxes of O&M manuals at the end of a job! About Integrated Facilities Solutions   IFS is a leading and award-winning company who’ve pioneered digital transformation with their Common Data Environment solution that allows owners and operators to manage their information for the whole asset lifecycle. Their blue-chip client list includes a diverse range of organisations from industry sectors such as transport, financial services, pharmaceuticals, education, sports stadia, health, data centres, commercial and residential.   Learn about Building Information Modelling (BIM), interoperability and the Common Data Environment (CDE)… .…sign-up for DCS’s free CITB-Assured eLearning module, Taking digital construction to the next level.  This module is for construction professionals who have a good understanding of the full range of digital solutions available and the benefits they can bring and would like to explore in more detail which solutions will be best for their business. It’s ideal for managers and decision-makers (including financial directors) who are ready to create and implement a robust digital strategy to help them achieve their short- and long-term business goals. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/christopher-g-grant/message

As most people know AutoCAD is one of the most used digital tools in UK construction. AutoCAD was primarily designed as a tool for architects and designers- not site engineers.  One of the biggest limitations to AutoCAD from a site engineering perspective is that it is not a Digital Terrain Modelling software. It can’t work with 3D surfaces so it’s not the best tool for site engineers however AutoCAD is often the only tool they have to work with.  This is why Gail McEwan from our sister company, Setting Out For Construction created a two day CITB Assured “AutoCAD for Site Engineers” course which is designed to help site engineers be able to get the most out of this digital tool.   We spoke with Gail in this short interview and in it she talks about:  • Why she created the course and why there is a need for it . • Why you won’t find any of this information on the AutoCAD “how to” videos on you tube  • How the course takes you through the very basics such as drawing shapes and lines to more advanced functions such as importing data from Total Stations, GNSS and laser scanning equipment  • How you will be able to import different file formats including the one file format that many engineers struggle with and many   • How the course teaches you to present the information that looks professional and give your AutoCAD drawings the wow factor to make you stand apart!  • How you can use AutoCAD to geo-reference setting out when you have no co-ordinate system information available on site. Gail McEwen is lead trainer at Setting Out for Construction and a Civil Engineer with over ten years' experience of the construction phase of civil engineering projects. She is a PhD student at Glasgow Caledonian University with her area of study on the implementation of digital transformation within the construction sector. Her site experience includes a range of hands-on and supervisory site based roles including plant operating, site engineering and project management. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/christopher-g-grant/message

In this episode we discuss survey mapping and modelling software (which is also known as Digital Terrain Modelling or DTM software) We find out: why, where and when we use it on projects what the key benefits are to using this type of software for both the business and site engineering teams its relationship to Building Information Modelling or BIM) why DTM software should not be confused with CAD  why CAD is not the universal panacea to solving construction problems where you will get the best training and support why the leading contractors and clients invest in this software and who is involved in the decision making process  what the barriers are to a more widespread adoption of these software solutions within the wider construction industry what the first thing you should do if you wish to invest in surveying mapping and modelling software On this podcast you hear from Gail McEwen- Lead Trainer at Digital Construction Skills Nigel Lorriman- General Manager at LSS/McCarthy Taylor Phil Langrishe- Co-owner and Managing Director, Applications in CADD Adam Ball- Applications Engineer at Leica Geosystems and Peter Roberts- Technical Support and Training at Topcon Positoning The questions are asked by Saffron Grant, Managing Director of Digital Construction Skills This is an edited version of our “Ask the panel” 1 Hour special on survey mapping and modelling software recorded on 15th March 2021 Running time 20 minutes --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/christopher-g-grant/message

Saffron Grant, Managing Director of Digital construction skills gives an overview of what the benefits of adopting digital tools in relation to construction and shares the 5 top tips to get started with a digital strategy if you are a construction SME or asset owner.    Subjects covered  Why bother with digital solutions in the first place?  How do you get started?  How do you reduce the risk?  How do you get the most out of digital tools?  What free training and support is available through the CITB funded digital leadership project?  What other funding support is available to construction SMEs?  This event was originally recorded at the Edinburgh Connections Business Exchange event on the 4th Feb 2021. A huge thanks to the following for allowing us to re-share this content  Bart Kowalczyk Director and Co-Founder of Edinburgh Connections  Anna Drogon- Event Co-ordinator, Edinburgh Connections Scotland's "Mr Networking" Colin McKeand, Co-Founder of Edinburgh Connections.   https://edinburghconnections.co.uk/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/christopher-g-grant/message

Saffron Grant Director of Digital construction skills in conversation with Andrew Morrison of AM Bid www.ambid.co.uk on his popular weekly Linkedin Live series.   Saffron talks about how Digital construction skills are working on a number of CITB funded and Innovate UK funded projects designed to help the construction SME sector implement digital solutions to help improve business resilience and capability. In this podcast you will find out:- What kind of funding and support is available to help with digital skills that SMEs might not know about. Why some of the help and support digital construction skills provides is free and funded by the CITB. Why the help and support is designed to be flexible to meet the specific needs of the SME sector and why no forms need to be filled in to get started with the process. What the purpose of the Innovate UK funded Resilience diagnostic platform is, who might use it and how might it help them. What the relationship is between digital enablement and business resilience. What is meant by resource poverty in the context of construction sector SMEs. Thanks to Andrew Morrison of AM Bid for kindly giving permission to re-share this content. This was originally recorded in February 2021. For for information here's a link to AM Bid Website: AM Bid: UK Bid Writing Specialists Creating Winning Bids and Proposals You can also reach out to Saffron by e mailing her at Saffron@digitalconstructionskills.com or simply book a free 30 minute call to see how you can access the CITB funded 8 hours free Digital Strategy Support.  https://ChrisGrantbookappointment.as.me/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/christopher-g-grant/message

In this episode Saffron speaks to Kathleen McLoughlin, Business Improvement Manager of Masonry Solutions limited. Kathleen talks about the leadership training she has recently taken part in and what benefits that this has brought both to her and her company. Kathleen took part in the "Power Within" Leadership training ran by the Business Growth Academy. For more information on the programme,  you can visit https://thepowerwithintraining.com. For more information on Masonry Solutions Ltd you can visit https://masonrysolutionsltd.co.uk  --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/christopher-g-grant/message

Still persevering with batter rails and profile boards because you don't trust machine control? How do we upskill a 40+ year old machine operator to operate and be confident with the new machine control technology? Are we giving our site engineers the skills they need to confidently set up machine control on site? What do one of the most forward thinking Tier 1 contractors in the world think about machine control and how do they get their supply chain on board? Where do you start with machine control hire? Buy? Can you retrofit onto older plant? These were among the questions we asked at our ask the panel event on machine control. Machine control is revolutionising how projects manage and operate more efficient, cost effective and safer bulk earthworks operations as well as reducing waste on overdigging and fuel costs. Machine control also helps to leverage data and information for project, site and asset management. Central to this is equipping plant hire owners, plant operators, site engineers, site supervisors, bankspersons, support staff, subcontractors and clients with the necessary digital skills to oil the wheels of digital adoption and transformation. We also think there is a lot of "old school" project managers and senior directors who may believe profiles boards were good enough for them so what's the big deal with this technology and why should we invest large sums into this? We talk about these challenges as well as talking about the range of machine control equipment available. We discuss how we can get more out of what we have as well as the things one should consider if looking to buy or hire this type of kit and what levels of support are available to you. We were absolutely thrilled to have such an amazing bunch of guest panellists joining us on this episode to share their knowledge and insights. On the podcast you will hear from: Mark Lawton CEng FCInstCES Head of Engineering Surveying and GIS at Tier 1 contractor, Skanska Andy Clifton Application Engineer Topcon Positioning GB Simon Hogg Machine simulator expert Tenstar Simulation AB Alan Penrose Technical Support and training, Sunbelt Rentals UK Gail McEwen Civil Engineer, Trainer and Excavator operator Setting Out For Construction Steve Claybrook Heavy construction solution specialist Leica Geosystems part of Hexagon The Q&A session was hosted by Saffron Grant Director, Digital Construction Skills and Setting out for construction. Saffron is also author of "Setting out for construction- a practical guide to site surveying" A special thanks to Topcon, Leica Geosystems, Sunbelt Rentals, Tenstar Simulation and Skanska in making this podcast. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/christopher-g-grant/message

For our first ever ask the panel event we begin with role of the site engineer in driving digital transformation. Join us in this engaging panel discussion where we ask: Why  is it that many of the best industry leaders, directors and influencers start off as a site engineers? What are the supporting skills needed to becoming a great site engineer? Why is it really short sighted and counter productive not investing in the right skills and equipment? What are the challenges in delivering the surveying module at colleges and universities?  What is the link between delivery of the surveying module at third level and the confidence of new graduate site engineers? Why is it really short sighted and counter productive not investing in the right skills and equipment? What other skills do engineers acquire as a result of being trained properly in setting out? What are the some of the routes available to become a site engineer? What level of support and other personal development training are the leading construction companies providing graduate site engineers? Why is setting out training training fundamental to unleashing the digital skills capabilities of site engineers and construction companies? What training and technical support is available from surveying suppliers? What are the things hire companies need to know to help you get the best out of your surveying equipment or to hire the right equipment? Why would SMEs want to become self sufficient by upskilling their staff in setting out? Why would SMEs want to better understand the process of setting out? The Q&A panel was hosted by Saffron Grant, Director of setting out for construction and author of Amazon best selling book "Setting out for construction- a practical guide to site surveying"  Saffron is also Managing Director at digital construction skills. We would like to offer our heartfelt thanks to our panel guests who made this a very well informed and intelligent discussion. Our panel guest for this event were:- Bobi Archer- Graduate Engineer, Barhale construction Tim Reeve- Technical Director, Winvic construction Bethany Welsh- Graduate Engineer, Balfour Beatty construction Filippos Ntagadakis- Director, Scotia survey and safety Gail McEwan- Lead trainer, Setting Out for construction Alan Penrose- Technical support and training, Sunbelt rentals Iona Oliver- Lecturer, South Lanarkshire college. This is the first of a 6 part series on setting out and surveying. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/christopher-g-grant/message

David Shepherd is a true original Digital Construction pioneer and legend. He is also our final podcast guest of 2022! Dave has been at the forefront of CAD technology since the mid ’90s and has implemented BIM for the likes of Arup, Mott MacDonald, Kier, BAM and MWH. He has been Senior Technical Consulting Manager at Autodesk and is widely recognised as a leading expert on those software products that have transformed the Construction industry. In his time with HOK Architects, Dave authored the original report on how BIM could be used on the Houses of Parliament Restoration and Renewal Project in 2013. In 2019, he then picked the baton up again and has since been the Digital Product Manager and BIM lead for the UK Parliament In House Services and Estates implementing and integrating all sorts of digital tools, technology, and innovations so that everyone from master craftspeople & Tier 1s to parliamentarians can collaborate and contribute in a meaningful way to this landmark scheme. To give you a sense of the size of the Houses of Parliament, you could fit 4.5 Wembley-sized pitches into it and there are 1100 windows 100 staircases 3,400 windows 3 km telephone cable Listen in if you want to hear all about the unique and challenging set of circumstances an iconic project like this brings about and what digitalisation in the context of a huge project looks and feels like, what the benefits are/will be and why the diversity and inclusion of SMEs and specialist contractors across the whole of the UK will play a key role in the project delivery phase. We also hear about Dave becoming an accredited Microsoft Power App developer and how this has led him to develop a simple set of information management tools that SMEs and asset owners can use to improve productivity, and reduce admin time whilst ensuring the continuity of the Golden Thread of digital information and compliance with the Building Safety Act. There are some words of wisdom for SMEs looking to digitalise their business and advice on where and when is the best place to start on the digitalisation journey as we look ahead to 2023. Having such a fantastic guest who summed up in one episode everything we have been promoting for the past 3 years was a fitting finale to our 2022 podcast series. Hope you enjoy! If you don't have time to listen in full here is a breakdown of what we talked about 01:20 How Dave became involved with the Houses of Parliament project and his own digital journey so far 05:00 The scale, purpose and scope of the Palace of Westminster project. 10:00 The role of digitalisation in the project. 12:00 The range of digital tools being used on the project 16:30 SME and Tier 1 engagement with digital tools and the importance of focusing on incremental gains when adopting new digital tools within a business 24:00 The role that digital tools can play in creating consistent quality outputs 35:00 The benefits/anticipated benefits arising from the implementation of digital tools on the HoP scheme. 43:00 How to address  and overcome any business technological limitations and what digital tools and processes you should focus on first. 47:50 The digitalisation of the "Golden Thread" and the Building Safety Act 55:00 The culture shift and different approaches that are required in construction to leverage the power of digital tools. 1:05:00 Dave's aspirations for 2023. You can follow Dave on LinkedIn here --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/christopher-g-grant/message

Can AI be a major superpower and force for good in Construction Health and Safety? Yes And does such a solution exist? Yes Who is one of the leading lights driving this revolution? Simon Wright, CEO of Intuety, a tested, proven, and game-changing AI platform that can transform how we think about, plan manage, administer and lead Health and Safety in construction in the 2020s. Is the solution affordable and within reach of everyone in the industry Yes How does it work and why do clients love this solution so much? Listen to the podcast and find out! If you don't have time to listen to the whole podcast here's a breakdown of the main things we talked about: 00:00 Intro, Simon's bio, and how the Intuety solution came about 04:00 What problems Intuety solves, the pain it takes away. 07:00 Key features of the platform 10:30 How the platform works in practical terms 12:00 Why a new predictive analytics feature being added will be significant for platform users. 14:00 The relationship between skills, experience, and competencies of site teams and the platform 17:00 What becomes possible for clients who adopt the solution 19:00 Why the platform does not replace human thinking 20:00 The affordability of the solution 21:20 Onboarding- how long it takes to get set up and who gets access 23:40 What typical challenges organisations face implementing such a technology and how can these challenges be overcome 28:20 Interoperability of Intuety with other software/data 30:00 The potential impact of Construction H&S in the industry with widespread adoption and implementation of such a technology. 32:40 Key considerations for decision-makers considering investing in the technology  34:00 How to get in touch with Simon and find out more You can e mail Simon directly  simon@intuety.ltd You can follow Simon on Linkedin Intuety website Home - Intuety --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/christopher-g-grant/message

Joining us for our latest podcast episode are Chris Matthew, Strategic Manager, and Paul Tuohy, Digital Plant Manager from Flannery Plant. In this podcast, we explore Machine Control and Telematics Technology and why it is a game changer for Flannery and its Clients. If you don't have time to listen to the whole podcast then you can always scroll to the sections most relevant to you below: 00:00 Introduction, background to Flannery Plant and Chris and Paul's role in the business. 03:50 What we mean by machine control. 05:30 The key differences between 2D machine control and 3D machine control. 07:00 How machine control can help service avoidance, where machine control is most commonly used, and how it is generally implemented in construction. 08:50 What the uptake is for machine control and the current demand for it in the industry. 10:00 Why adopting and integrating machine control technology has been a  real game changer for Flannery and its clients 11:30 Clients- what they are looking for, what they know and the challenges faced by Chris and Paul when clients are not fully aware of the technology capabilities. 13:20 Telematics- what it is and what it does in the context of plant operations. 15:00 What the connection is between machine control and telematics and the key benefits of integrating, adopting, and implementing both. 20:20 What useful telematics information can plant produce for clients and how this helps improve plant efficiency on site. 23:00 The pain that Flannery takes away for their customers and the services Flannery provides to help their clients get the most from the technology. 29:50 How telematics is transforming the way projects and teams can plan, manage and monitor plant operations on site. 37:00 The skills and awareness of the technology that clients and their staff need to get the most from Machine Control and Telematics. 42:29  The barriers and challenges faced when implementing machine control and telematics. How these are being overcome by Flannery. 47:29 The lessons learned by Flannery on their digital journey and advice for SMEs looking to get started with the technology. Flannery Plant Website Home | Flannery (flanneryplanthire.com) Flannery Plant Twitter Flannery Plant Hire (@FlanneryPlant) / Twitter Flannery on LinkedIn Flannery Plant Hire: Overview | LinkedIn --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/christopher-g-grant/message

Liam McEvoy is an inspiration. We were absolutely thrilled to have Liam on the podcast to speak about Environmental Social Governance (ESG) with such enthusiasm and passion, and also to tell us why ESG is so important and how the SustainIQ solution can be used to help construction businesses in more ways than you might think! Liam, along with his co-founder Maria Diffley started SustainIQ in 2017 and now the platform is being used on over 1,000 sites helping construction companies meet their ESG (Environmental Social Governance) obligations as well as saving them time & money, improving project outcomes, and reducing risk. Here's a summary of what we discussed: 01:00 Liam's background and motivation for co-creating SustainIQ 02:46 What do we mean by ESG and what do construction companies need to know about it? 05:38 The four key pillars of ESG that the platform is built around and how the platform works. 11:32 Why SustainIQ can be a useful tool for construction SMEs and why it is not just for Tier 1 contractors and large organisations. 13:00 The type of problems that SustainIQ can help businesses with and why reliable, accurate, transparent data as well as sustainable procurement has a major role to play in successful ESG management. 16:00 How Heron Brothers used SustainIQ on a £16M Community Centre project in Midlothian, Scotland, and the key benefits that this has brought to their business. 23:36 What we mean by "Greenwashing" 25:40 The onboarding process- how the platform is introduced and implemented with new customers and the support available to ensure a successful transition to adopting the technology. 28:37 What construction SMEs should consider when reflecting on their current ESG performance. 30:30 How to find out more about Sustain IQ and ESG SustainIQ website SustainIQ Follow SustainIQ on twitter SustainIQ (@SustainIQ) / Twitter Connect with Liam on LinkedIn Liam McEvoy | LinkedIn SustainIQ blog page where you will find loads of really useful articles on ESG and related issues SustainIQ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/christopher-g-grant/message

In this episode, we speak with Norma Matheson, Financial Director of Matheson Damp Services, a growing small family business specialising in damp and timber treatment. In the podcast, you will hear how Norma has implemented and streamlined its business processes using the free version of a platform called Asana and how this has transformed the business operations. Here's a summary of the key discussion points if you don't have time to listen to all the podcast: 00:00 Introduction to Norma, the company and her role within the business. 01:27 The problem the business was looking to solve. 04:00 The process involved with selecting the software 05:20 How the Asana platform is used  and applied within the business. 08:30 The functionality of the "Free" version of Asana and why the business is considering paying for additional features. 11:10 System setup and the skills and resources needed. 12:27 The difference this has made to the business and key benefits realised. 16:40 Team engagement with the tool, feedback from the field and ease of use on site devices. 20:00 Next steps on the digital journey for Norma and the team 21:00 Advice for other businesses looking to streamline their business processes. Matheson Damp Proof Services Website: Damp Specialists Glasgow | Damp Treatment | Matheson Damp Services You can e-mail Norma directly if you would like to find out more: Norma@mathesondampservices.co.uk --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/christopher-g-grant/message

What is Project Management software and why would construction SMEs want to use it?   On this podcast, we are joined by Daniel Milligan, Co-founder of Frame Solutions to discuss their innovative software solution, ESTA that optimises team collaboration and project management data to produce real-time project analytics.   According to Daniel's research, we discard around 90% of construction project information once a contract is completed. So there is a huge area of improvement opportunity to be realised with digital technologies such as the one we discuss in this episode. The podcast is about 20 minutes long and here is a summary of the key points of the discussion that you can scroll to if you don't have time to listen to it all.   00:00 Introduction and background information about Frame Solutions   01:30 The problem that the project management software solves.  04:00 Who the solution is aimed at and the key features of the ESTA platform.  07:10 The key benefits derived by businesses that adopt the project management solution.  10:00 Making the business case for investment 12:00 Onboarding, support and training provided by Frame Solutions to ensure customers get the best out of the software  15:40 Interoperability & integration with other software platforms  17:30 The key factor a construction business should consider if they are thinking about investing.   You can follow Daniel on LinkedIn   https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-milligan-mrics-5239b51b8/  And here's the link to the Frame Solutions Website where you can find out more about the ESTA platform.   https://www.frame-solutions.com/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/christopher-g-grant/message

In this podcast, we hear from Jamie Brenton, Managing Director of Brebur Limited. Brebur is a specialist SFS, dry-lining, plastering, and suspended ceiling company based in Yorkshire, that delivers projects throughout the North of England.   About 3 years ago Brebur invested in a Cost Management Software Solution called Chalkstring and in this podcast, we hear how this has transformed the business and why having estimating, procurement, variations, payment applications, and value engineering integrated and managed on the same platform has been a real game-changer for them.   This is a recording of a webinar and is the first in the series of events we are running this year in collaboration with the Finishes and Interiors Sector. Asking the questions on this episode is Joe Cillia Technical Director of the Finishes and Interiors Sector. We also hear briefly on the podcast from Sarah Crawford and Barry Chapman Director and Managing Director of Chalkstring and we are very grateful to the FIS, Chalkstring, and Jamie Brenton for giving us permission to republish this webinar as an edited podcast.    The episode is about 40 minutes long and in case you don't have time to watch it all you can scroll to the relevant sections below   00:00 Start  00:45 Introduction by Jamie and background to the business.  01:20 What Chalkstring is used for in the business.  02:00 The motivation for adopting a Cost Management Software Solution  03:00 Why Brebur chose Chalkstring specifically and what the key outcomes have been.  05:52 The challenges the business faced before and what changed as a result of implementing the software  07:50 How Chalkstring has helped simplify the Value Engineering Process  09:18 How information management and communication has improved overall in the business as a result of implementing Chalkstring  10:40 How the procurement process has been transformed by implementing the software.  15:50 How Chalkstring has helped Brebur as a business to manage price increases.  17:30 How the solution helps manage pricing and variations.  22:00 A summary of the key benefits realised by the business overall as a result of implementing the software. Including recruitment of new staff.  24:00 Why business growth was the main catalyst for implementing the software.  25:30 An overview of what the biggest changes have been for the business as a result of implementing the software.Why this has led to much happier staff!  30:00 The challenges and experiences of implementing the new software within the business.  36:00 How operatives on-site use and engage with Chalkstring.   Links   Brebur Website https://www.breburltd.co.uk  Chalkstring Website https://chalkstring.com Finishes and Interiors Sector Website https://www.thefis.org --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/christopher-g-grant/message

A podcast about the benefits of Time & Attendance and Resource Management Software. In our latest podcast, we caught up with Michelle Pretorious Director of EDMA Systems to talk all about their Time & Attendance and Resource Management Software. We get asked a lot about time & attendance software so it was great finally to get a deep dive on this subject. It's about 54 minutes long as there was a lot to talk about. We have broken it down into sections below for you to scroll to if you do not have the time. 00:40 An introduction to Michelle, her work and all about EDMA systems 05:31 What is meant by the terms resource management and time & attendance. 07:00 Why might a construction company need time & attendance software and what problems it can solve. 12:15 The key features of the EDMA platform 19:30 The key modules within the solution that are most useful for a construction company. 21:40 What is biometrics and how it is used within time & attendance software. 23:40 What becomes possible for companies who adopt time & attendance/resource management software. 27:55 What is involved with setting up & the onboarding process. 35:00 The typical challenges a company might face internally when implementing the solution. 44:20 The key things a business should consider when investing in time & attendance software 49:05 The transformation potential that time & attendance and resource management software could have on workforce planning and on the world of work. 52:00 How to find out more about EDMA systems and get in touch with Michelle. You can get in touch with Michelle directly michelle@edmasystems.co.uk You can follow Michelle on LinkedIn Michelle Pretorius | LinkedIn EDMA systems website Edma Systems UK | | Time, Resource & Job Management Software --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/christopher-g-grant/message

In our latest Digital Construction Skills podcast, we speak with a true pioneer in the industry, CDM compliance advocate (and all-around good guy!), Imanuel Steele CEO and Co-founder of PRIN- D Technology.    PRIN- D is a platform that allows Clients and Duty Holders to manage their CDM and legal obligations under the new and emerging Building Safety Bill regulations capturing what Dame Judith Hackitt describes in her post-Grenfell Independent Review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety as the "Golden Thread of Information".   Hear how this digital information stored on the Blockchain (or to give its proper name- Distributed Ledger Technology) gives what Imanuel describes as an "immutable" digital record and why it is a transparent, safe, structured, and secure system that will give Clients the tools and assurance they need to ensure that Health and Safety can be much more effectively managed through the whole lifecycle of a project.   How the emergence of the Draft Building Safety Bill Legislation currently passing through the UK Parliament, means the need to ensure the health and safety competence of construction professionals has never been greater and why now is time for the industry to seize the opportunity that technologies such as distributed ledger technology can provide to begin to rebuild the trust and credibility of the construction industry in parts where it is so desperately needed.   The interview is about 1 hour long but you can just scroll or click on the timestamps below if you are short on time.   00:00 CDM, the "Golden Thread" and distributed ledger technology- Imanuel Steele  00:50 Imanuel brief bio. How PRIN-D came about. CDM regulations and Principal Designer.  04:45 Brief overview of UK CDM regulations what they do and why they are important.  06:35 Building Safety Bill, CDM regs and the influence of the Hackitt Report on shaping the platform.  10:11 New UK Building Safety Bill and duty holders under CDM regulations  12:00 Extended client responsibilities under new laws.The need to demonstrate client competence.  13:30 Distributed Ledger Technology in simple terms and why it's a great leap forward.  17:35 The "Golden Thread" and what it means in the context of the PRIN D platform. 19:15 Real-time digital info accessibility- the keyholders. Possible tool for HSE inspectors.  21:20 PRIN- D solution. The key problems it solves. 23:00 How PRIN-D works- key features and who it is aimed at.  25:45 PRIN-D interoperability with CDE platforms such as MS SharePoint and Procore.  28:40 Eliminating risk of inaccessible emails and large file attachments using the platform.  31:40 Trends, data, and analytics- why simplicity is key and the opportunity to link supply chain.  36:38 Key benefits for adopters of solution. Immutable digital records and handover information.  40:10 Interoperability and parallels with BIM and CDM regs. The platform's ISO19650 template.  46:30 Onboarding, setting up, operating the platform. The opportunities for further collaboration.  49:00 Advice for others looking to adopt digital tools and/or emerging technologies.  54:00 Imanuel- his wider conversations ongoing to transform industry and his future aspirations.   You can follow Imanuel or get in touch directly with Imanuel via LinkedIn at this link  https://www.linkedin.com/in/imanuel-steele-8299a915/ If you like what you hear, don't forget to like and subscribe to the podcast- you can find us also on Itunes or Spotify Feel free to get in touch too! You can email us at chris@digitalcontructionskills.com  or visit www.digitalconstructionskills.com #safetyculture #rics #hse #cdmregulations --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/christopher-g-grant/message

In our latest podcast episode, we discuss Fire Safety, the Golden Thread, the Building Safety Bill, and how a digital fire safety compliance platform can help transform how Clients, Facilities Managers, and Owner/Operators manage buildings in relation to Fire Safety.    We also examine what impact this might have for wider society, how building projects of the future may be funded and insured based on fire safety data as well as the empowering impact such a platform can have in terms of fire safety participation to drive better compliance and decision making at all levels of an organisation.   John Noone is a Chartered Fire Safety Engineer and has been advising clients on Fire Safety all his career in Ireland, the UK, and the Middle East. In 2017 he co-founded the Joule Group, an independent company of Fire Safety designers, engineers, consultants, and technology solution specialists who strive to ensure all aspects of fire safety are balanced and fully coordinated in design, construction, and operation.   00:30 John’s background as a Fire Safety Engineer and the co-founding of the Joule Group. 2:00 The Dame Judith Hackitt review, the building safety bill and what this might mean for the construction and facilities management sector.  5:45 The Golden Thread in relation to Fire Safety through the Project and Asset/Building Lifecycles.  09:00 The TFS Fire Safety Compliance Solution- what problems does this digital tool solve?   10:50 The key features of the TFS Platform- how it works and how it supports clients and building operators   14:30 The key benefits for clients and building operators who adopt this digital solution.  18:20 The process of adopting the solution- how long it takes to set up, the training/upskilling required, and the support available to implement the solution.  20:00 The wider benefits of the solution and its potential impact on how buildings and building safety is managed, the assurance for building owners and regulators, and what it might mean for how projects are funded and insured in the future.  24:00 How the TFS compliance platform can empower organisations for people at all levels to play their part more effectively in Fire Safety compliance and management   27:00 How digital information from the Fire Safety Compliance Platform can be a catalyst for significant behavioural and cultural change within the construction industry.   28:00 What others can learn from John’s experience and advice for anyone looking to adopt a digital solution into their business.   29:00 Joule Group future plans and John’s personal aspirations- how he sees the role of the Fire Safety Engineer evolving and being integral to the construction and design process.  More info about the Joule Group here   https://joule-group.com/  Joule Group LinkedIn page  https://www.linkedin.com/company/joule-group  #Firesafety #Buildingsafetybill #goldenthread #Hackittreview --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/christopher-g-grant/message