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In this episode, we examine the conflicting perspectives on the impact of the Middle East conflict, celebrate the surge in women completing construction apprenticeships, and hear from Canary Wharf’s development director about the estate’s remarkable transformation. Let's do this.

Two conflicting reports on the impact of the Middle East conflict

Middle East conflict to have ‘limited impact’ on full-year results, says Barratt Redrow

Barratt Redrow, a leading UK housebuilder, has stated that the Middle East conflict will have only a limited effect on its full-year 2026 results. The company reported a solid third quarter, with a resilient reservation rate and strong forward sales. CEO David Thomas highlighted Barratt Redrow’s proven ability to navigate uncertainty, maintaining a 2% build cost inflation forecast for 2026. However, analysts urge caution, noting that current reservation rates may be supported by buyers using previously secured, lower-priced mortgages. The company acknowledges that higher energy costs could drive up material prices in 2027 and will provide further updates in July.

Conflict in Middle East causes construction sector uncertainty

In contrast, other industry voices are more cautious. Consultants warn that the conflict could lead to higher energy and material costs, impacting project pricing and contractors’ willingness to take on new work. The sector is closely monitoring the situation, aware that the conflict’s trajectory could quickly alter forecasts and disrupt project pipelines. The overall mood is one of vigilance, as stakeholders weigh the risks of cost inflation and possible delays against the need to maintain momentum in a challenging market.

Women completing construction apprenticeships have tripled since 2018

The UK construction industry is seeing a significant shift in gender diversity. According to the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), the number of women starting construction apprenticeships rose from 1,450 in 2018 to 2,410 in 2025, and completions increased from 340 to 910. CITB and partners like The Skills Centre have invested in training and work placements, with 182 women trained for construction employment in 2025 alone.

The Women and Work All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) released a report in 2025 focusing on strategies to break down barriers for women entering construction. With the industry needing 47,000 additional workers annually, diversity is seen as a solution to the skills gap. Deb Madden, Executive Director at CITB, emphasized the importance of retaining women in the sector and ensuring their apprenticeships lead to long-term, secure careers.

‘It was never dying.’ Canary Wharf’s development director on the resurgence of the Docklands estate

Canary Wharf, once considered in decline, is experiencing a remarkable resurgence. Chief development officer Tom Venner rejects the narrative of decline, describing how the estate has transformed over the past five to six years. Originally finance-focused, Canary Wharf is now diversifying into residential, life sciences, and leisure. By 2028, only 55% of the estate will be finance-related, down from over 90% in the 1990s. The area now boasts more than 3,500 residents, over 300 retailers, hotels, and vibrant weekend activity.

In 2025, the estate recorded its highest-ever footfall, with 72.6 million visitors. Major projects include JP Morgan’s new European headquarters, a three-million-square-foot development by Foster & Partners, and the transformation of the HSBC tower into a mixed-use space with a hotel and leisure facilities. Venner highlighted investments in public spaces, amenities, and sustainability, as well as adaptability in the face of challenges such as the collapse of modular construction firm Caledonian. Canary Wharf continues to attract major tenants and remains a key player in London’s property market.

Bios

Ryan Jones - SLG Agency

For almost 20 years, Ryan’s focus has been on helping brands in the construction and manufacturing sectors tell their story.

His career began in PR, working for global businesses across a variety of sectors, before opting to focus on construction and the built environment.

In his role as Managing Director, Ryan works to ensure that SLG Agency continues to be one of the construction industry's leading specialist strategic and creative agencies, having seen its work recognised by the likes of Campaign, Marketing Week and The Drum in recent years.

Ryan is regularly asked to speak at trade shows and events, and to contribute thought leadership pieces to trade media. He is also a member of several industry advisory boards, including Constructing Excellence and the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce.

His passion for the construction sector has seen him work with clients on CSR campaigns that tackle the sector’s public perception, culminating in him recently launching a not-for-profit called Deconstruction.

Peter Sumpton - buildDifferent

Peter is a construction–marketing strategist and co-host of Construction Disrupted. With two decades’ experience spanning manufacturers, contractors and agencies, he helps organisations swap scattergun activity for clear strategy, joined-up planning and measurable outcomes.

His approach is practical and plain-spoken: cut the noise, focus on what moves the numbers, and build repeatable systems that teams can actually use.

Having seen first-hand how unfocused tactics waste time and budget, Peter works with leaders to align commercial goals, customer insight and content so marketing supports delivery rather than distracting from it.

Peter's passion lies in diagnosing organisations' marketing functions' capabilities and existing market, assembling what’s required to create a functional strategy, fit for purpose and scalable.

Marketing should create value, not just cost, and Peter’s work is about making that the norm.

In this episode, we take a look at the efforts to accelerate cladding remediation, the transformative power of apprenticeships and the resilience of architects amidst global challenges. Let's go!

BSR Aims to Beat 12-Week Decision Time on Cladding Applications

The Building Safety Regulator (BSR) is taking significant steps to address the backlog of external cladding remediation applications. With 299 live cases awaiting decisions and current median approval times stretching to 36 weeks, the BSR has set an ambitious goal to reduce decision times to under 12 weeks by December. While this is still above the statutory eight-week target, it represents a major improvement.

Key measures include:

• Dedicated Taskforce: A specialised team will streamline communication with applicants and expedite approvals.
• Flexible Approval Methods: Projects can commence while technical issues are being resolved.
• Enhanced Resources: New guidance and tools will help applicants submit complete and accurate applications, reducing delays caused by errors.
• Online Tracking: Applicants will soon be able to monitor the status of their submissions online.

BSR’s board chair, Lord Andy Roe, emphasised the importance of these changes in ensuring high-rise residents experience essential safety improvements without unnecessary delays. This initiative is a critical step in addressing the legacy of cladding issues and improving building safety across the UK.

The Value of Apprenticeships for Social Mobility and Regional Growth is Real. So What’s Holding Businesses Back?

Apprenticeships are a powerful tool for driving social mobility and regional economic growth, particularly in the construction industry. Nicola Hodkinson highlights how construction offers unique opportunities for individuals to build meaningful careers without traditional academic routes, allowing them to earn while they learn and progress from apprentice to leadership roles.

However, structural challenges are preventing businesses from fully leveraging apprenticeships:

• Project-Based Nature of Construction: Unlike stable workplaces, construction projects are temporary and geographically dispersed, making consistent training and oversight challenging.
• Economic Uncertainty: The industry’s low margins and high risks make long-term commitments to apprenticeships financially daunting for many employers.
• Policy Misalignment: Current frameworks are designed for industries with predictable employment models, which don’t align with construction’s dynamic nature.

Hodkinson calls for targeted government support, including financial assistance for early-stage apprenticeship costs, flexible delivery models, and improved pipeline visibility through long-term procurement planning. By addressing these barriers, the construction industry can unlock the full potential of apprenticeships, creating pathways to prosperity for individuals and communities.

Architects Remain Optimistic Despite Impact of Middle East Conflict, RIBA Survey Finds

The latest RIBA Future Trends survey reveals cautious optimism among architects, despite the economic pressures stemming from the Middle East conflict. While workload expectations softened slightly in March, the overall outlook remains positive, with medium and large practices showing significant growth in confidence.

Key findings from the survey include:

• Workload Expectations: The index dipped from +5 in February to +1 in March, but medium and large practices saw a sharp increase in confidence, with indices rising from +12 to +39.
• Sector-Specific Trends: Public and commercial sectors showed slight improvements, while private housing and community sectors experienced declines.
• Challenges from the Middle East Conflict: The conflict has led to increased material costs, supply chain pressures, and reduced client confidence, which could impact new commissions if inflation and interest rates rise.

Despite these challenges, RIBA’s executive director Adrian Dobson praised the resilience of the profession, noting that architects remain optimistic about their ability to navigate these turbulent times. This optimism stands in contrast to the broader construction industry, which has seen a sharp decline in new orders and a significant rise in material costs.

Bios

Ryan Jones - SLG Agency

For almost 20 years, Ryan’s focus has been on helping brands in the construction and manufacturing sectors tell their story.

His career began in PR, working for global businesses across a variety of sectors, before opting to focus on construction and the built environment.

In his role as Managing Director, Ryan works to ensure that SLG Agency continues to be one of the construction industry's leading specialist strategic and creative agencies, having seen its work recognised by the likes of Campaign, Marketing Week and The Drum in recent years.

Ryan is regularly asked to speak at trade shows and events, and to contribute thought leadership pieces to trade media. He is also a member of several industry advisory boards, including Constructing Excellence and the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce.

His passion for the construction sector has seen him work with clients on CSR campaigns that tackle the sector’s public perception, culminating in him recently launching a not-for-profit called Deconstruction.

Peter Sumpton - buildDifferent

Peter is a construction–marketing strategist and co-host of Construction Disrupted. With two decades’ experience spanning manufacturers, contractors and agencies, he helps organisations swap scattergun activity for clear strategy, joined-up planning and measurable outcomes.

His approach is practical and plain-spoken: cut the noise, focus on what moves the numbers, and build repeatable systems that teams can actually use.

Having seen first-hand how unfocused tactics waste time and budget, Peter works with leaders to align commercial goals, customer insight and content so marketing supports delivery rather than distracting from it.

Peter's passion lies in diagnosing organisations' marketing functions' capabilities and existing market, assembling what’s required to create a functional strategy, fit for purpose and scalable.

Marketing should create value, not just cost, and Peter’s work is about making that the norm.

In this episode, we traverse from government funding initiatives to infrastructure investments and surprising career trends, it's what's shaping the industry right now, so let’s dive in!

MHCLG Announces £70m for Building Inspector Training and Safety Reforms

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) has committed £70 million to address the shortage of building inspectors and fire engineers. This funding will train up to 700 new inspectors and expand fire engineering education.

Additionally, consultations are underway to streamline minor works in high-risk buildings and improve fire risk assessor standards. These measures aim to enhance building safety and address skills shortages in the sector.

£165m Fund to Unlock Stalled Housing Sites

The UK government has launched the Growth and Housing Accelerator Fund, allocating £165 million to provide transport infrastructure for stalled housing and development sites near motorways and A-roads.

This initiative, part of the Road Investment Strategy 3 (RIS3), seeks to revive idle projects, create jobs, and address housing shortages. Local authorities will soon be invited to register eligible sites for funding consideration.

Nearly Half of UK Graduates Would Choose Construction Careers

A survey by MoneySuperMarket reveals that 45% of UK graduates would opt for a trade career, such as construction, if given the chance to start over. Electricians are the most popular choice, followed by painters/decorators and carpenters/joiners. Key motivators include the appeal of self-employment, avoiding desk jobs, and better long-term earnings.

Despite this interest, only 30% of young people seriously consider construction careers, highlighting the need for targeted recruitment efforts to address the industry’s skills gap

Bios

Ryan Jones - SLG Agency

For almost 20 years, Ryan’s focus has been on helping brands in the construction and manufacturing sectors tell their story.

His career began in PR, working for global businesses across a variety of sectors, before opting to focus on construction and the built environment.

In his role as Managing Director, Ryan works to ensure that SLG Agency continues to be one of the construction industry's leading specialist strategic and creative agencies, having seen its work recognised by the likes of Campaign, Marketing Week and The Drum in recent years.

Ryan is regularly asked to speak at trade shows and events, and to contribute thought leadership pieces to trade media. He is also a member of several industry advisory boards, including Constructing Excellence and the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce.

His passion for the construction sector has seen him work with clients on CSR campaigns that tackle the sector’s public perception, culminating in him recently launching a not-for-profit called Deconstruction.

Peter Sumpton - buildDifferent

Peter is a construction–marketing strategist and co-host of Construction Disrupted. With two decades’ experience spanning manufacturers, contractors and agencies, he helps organisations swap scattergun activity for clear strategy, joined-up planning and measurable outcomes.

His approach is practical and plain-spoken: cut the noise, focus on what moves the numbers, and build repeatable systems that teams can actually use.

Having seen first-hand how unfocused tactics waste time and budget, Peter works with leaders to align commercial goals, customer insight and content so marketing supports delivery rather than distracting from it.

Peter's passion lies in diagnosing organisations' marketing functions' capabilities and existing market, assembling what’s required to create a functional strategy, fit for purpose and scalable.

Marketing should create value, not just cost, and Peter’s work is about making that the norm.

In this episode we cover groundbreaking policy changes, ambitious housing plans and strategies to improve project delivery, exploring how these initiatives aim to transform the industry and impact communities across the country. Let’s get going!

Construction retentions to be banned

The UK government has announced the abolition of retention payments in construction contracts to protect smaller firms from financial risks like insolvency and late payments. Retention payments, often up to 5% of a contract’s value, have long been criticized for restricting cash flow and exposing subcontractors to risks.

This reform, supported by the Construction Leadership Council (CLC), is expected to create fairer contract terms and reduce instability in the industry. However, concerns remain about potential challenges, such as firms delaying payments to circumvent the ban. To address this, measures like adjudication processes and court enforcement will be introduced.

The ban is part of a broader effort to tackle late payment practices, which cost the UK economy £11 billion annually. Other measures include a maximum 60-day payment term for large firms paying smaller suppliers and enhanced powers for the Small Business Commissioner to investigate and penalize poor payment practices.

New Towns plan part of radical action to meet housebuilding target

The UK government plans to establish seven new towns across England to address the housing crisis and drive economic growth. The initiative emphasizes affordable housing, public transport, and infrastructure to create thriving communities. Locations like Tempsford, strategically positioned to connect key cities, are seen as promising examples.

The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and the Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH) have welcomed the plans, highlighting the importance of high-quality design, affordable housing, and strong partnerships. The government’s launch of a National Housing Bank and subsidies for lower-cost lending are expected to support large-scale housing delivery.

Experts stress that effective implementation will be key, requiring long-term funding, collaboration, and a commitment to good placemaking to ensure these new towns succeed.

Impatient for infrastructure? Four changes to improve UK project delivery

The UK’s infrastructure projects have faced delays and budget overruns, with only 59% of planned spending materializing between 2015 and 2024. McKinsey proposes four key changes to address these challenges:

1. Better Planning and Budgeting: Robust, long-term planning can reduce volatility and improve project success rates, as seen in Norway’s State Project Model.
2. Data-Driven Decision Making: Using consistent data definitions and structured reporting can help leaders make informed decisions and improve performance.
3. Digital Tools and AI: Technologies like generative scheduling and digital twins have demonstrated their ability to save time and costs in UK projects.
4. Consistent Leadership: Stable leadership, as seen in the Thames Tideway Tunnel project, ensures continuity and better outcomes.

By adopting these strategies, the UK can improve infrastructure delivery and ensure projects meet their goals.

Bios

Ryan Jones - SLG Agency

For almost 20 years, Ryan’s focus has been on helping brands in the construction and manufacturing sectors tell their story.

His career began in PR, working for global businesses across a variety of sectors, before opting to focus on construction and the built environment.

In his role as Managing Director, Ryan works to ensure that SLG Agency continues to be one of the construction industry's leading specialist strategic and creative agencies, having seen its work recognised by the likes of Campaign, Marketing Week and The Drum in recent years.

Ryan is regularly asked to speak at trade shows and events, and to contribute thought leadership pieces to trade media. He is also a member of several industry advisory boards, including Constructing Excellence and the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce.

His passion for the construction sector has seen him work with clients on CSR campaigns that tackle the sector’s public perception, culminating in him recently launching a not-for-profit called Deconstruction.

Peter Sumpton - buildDifferent

Peter is a construction–marketing strategist and co-host of Construction Disrupted. With two decades’ experience spanning manufacturers, contractors and agencies, he helps organisations swap scattergun activity for clear strategy, joined-up planning and measurable outcomes.

His approach is practical and plain-spoken: cut the noise, focus on what moves the numbers, and build repeatable systems that teams can actually use.

Having seen first-hand how unfocused tactics waste time and budget, Peter works with leaders to align commercial goals, customer insight and content so marketing supports delivery rather than distracting from it.

Peter's passion lies in diagnosing organisations' marketing functions' capabilities and existing market, assembling what’s required to create a functional strategy, fit for purpose and scalable.

Marketing should create value, not just cost, and Peter’s work is about making that the norm.

In this episode we're going youthful, exploring how the next generation is shaping the future of construction, from leveraging gaming skills to government initiatives and promising data on the industry’s age profile. Let's all drink from the fountain of construction youth.

But first:

Check Adobe Acrobat PDF Spaces which helps us put this podcast together each week: https://bit.ly/4swHSiq

The Next Generation’s Gaming Skills Can Help Shape Modern Construction

Gaming isn’t just a pastime—it’s a training ground for the future of construction. According to Louisa Finlay, COO and Chief People Officer at Kier, the skills honed through gaming, such as spatial awareness, 3D worldbuilding, teamwork, problem-solving, and risk assessment, are directly transferable to modern construction practices like digital construction, BIM, project planning, and 3D modeling.

During Open Doors Week (March 23–28), Kier aims to show young people how their digital hobbies can translate into fulfilling careers in construction. With the industry increasingly embracing technology and data-driven solutions, gaming enthusiasts already possess many of the skills needed to thrive in this evolving field.

Kier’s “naturally digital” initiative highlights the importance of embedding digital thinking into the culture of construction, making it second nature for professionals.

Open Doors Week provides a unique opportunity to inspire the next generation by showcasing how their passions can align with the industry’s needs.

Construction Industry Welcomes Young Employment Drive

The UK government has launched a major initiative to create 200,000 new jobs and apprenticeships for young people in the construction industry, backed by £1 billion in funding.

This move aims to address the alarming rise in youth unemployment, which increased by 37% between 2021 and 2024.

Key measures include:

1. A £3,000 grant for businesses hiring young people aged 18–24 who have been on Universal Credit and unemployed for at least six months.
2. This is expected to create 60,000 jobs over three years.
3. Expanding the Jobs Guarantee to include 18–24-year-olds, creating 35,000 subsidized jobs.
4. Introducing an Apprenticeship Incentive, offering SME businesses £2,000 for each new employee aged 16–24, potentially generating 50,000 jobs.

Industry leaders, including the Federation of Master Builders (FMB), have welcomed the initiative.

FMB CEO Brian Berry emphasized the importance of employer-led preparation, meaningful work experience, and ongoing support to ensure the success of these programs.

With proper implementation, this initiative could significantly reduce youth unemployment and address the construction industry’s skills gap.

Skills Card Data Suggests Construction’s Age Profile Is Finally Improving

For decades, the construction industry has faced concerns about an aging workforce, but new data from the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) offers a promising outlook.

In 2025, 25.2% of CSCS cards were held by individuals under the age of 30, a significant increase from 17% in 2021.

This eight-point rise in the share of young workers challenges the long-standing narrative that young people are not interested in construction careers.

CSCS Chief Executive Sean Kearns highlighted the importance of sustaining this trend by focusing on upskilling and retaining young talent to ensure the industry’s long-term growth.

The data underscores the potential for a demographic shift in construction, with more young people entering the field. The challenge now lies in creating an environment that supports their development and ensures they remain engaged in the industry.

Bios

Ryan Jones - SLG Agency

For almost 20 years, Ryan’s focus has been on helping brands in the construction and manufacturing sectors tell their story.

His career began in PR, working for global businesses across a variety of sectors, before opting to focus on construction and the built environment.

In his role as Managing Director, Ryan works to ensure that SLG Agency continues to be one of the construction industry's leading specialist strategic and creative agencies, having seen its work recognised by the likes of Campaign, Marketing Week and The Drum in recent years.

Ryan is regularly asked to speak at trade shows and events, and to contribute thought leadership pieces to trade media. He is also a member of several industry advisory boards, including Constructing Excellence and the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce.

His passion for the construction sector has seen him work with clients on CSR campaigns that tackle the sector’s public perception, culminating in him recently launching a not-for-profit called Deconstruction.

Peter Sumpton - buildDifferent

Peter is a construction–marketing strategist and co-host of Construction Disrupted. With two decades’ experience spanning manufacturers, contractors and agencies, he helps organisations swap scattergun activity for clear strategy, joined-up planning and measurable outcomes.

His approach is practical and plain-spoken: cut the noise, focus on what moves the numbers, and build repeatable systems that teams can actually use.

Having seen first-hand how unfocused tactics waste time and budget, Peter works with leaders to align commercial goals, customer insight and content so marketing supports delivery rather than distracting from it.

Peter's passion lies in diagnosing organisations' marketing functions' capabilities and existing market, assembling what’s required to create a functional strategy, fit for purpose and scalable.

Marketing should create value, not just cost, and Peter’s work is about making that the norm.

In this episode, we're covering a record-breaking infrastructure pipeline, calls for a streamlined planning system and a transformative housing project in London. Plus a bonus intro to congratulate Ryan and the SLG Team for reaching the top spot in the CMA Agency League 2025.

Updated UK Infrastructure Pipeline tops £700bn and gives granular data for workforce planning

The UK Government has unveiled its updated 10-year Infrastructure Pipeline, now valued at an impressive £718 billion. This comprehensive plan includes detailed workforce demand projections, estimating the need for up to 706,000 workers annually over the next five years, with construction roles making up the majority.

The Pipeline is designed to help businesses plan recruitment, training, and investments, while providing clarity on regional investment opportunities. With energy projects leading the way, this update is a significant step toward ensuring the UK’s infrastructure development aligns with future needs.

RIBA calls for simpler, faster planning system that protects design quality

The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has responded to proposed reforms to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), advocating for a more efficient and predictable planning system.

RIBA supports measures to link housing delivery with infrastructure, promote density near rail stations, and enforce accessible housing standards. However, the institute has raised concerns about restrictions on local authorities setting higher energy efficiency standards, emphasising the need to meet net-zero targets. RIBA’s call to action highlights the importance of balancing housing delivery with environmental sustainability and design quality.

Go-ahead for 2,300-home scheme at former GSK London HQ

A major redevelopment project has been approved for the former GlaxoSmithKline headquarters in Brentford, West London. The 13-acre site will be transformed into a vibrant mixed-use neighbourhood featuring over 2,300 homes, 35% of which will be affordable housing, alongside 330,000 square feet of commercial and retail space.

The project emphasises sustainability, with a focus on retrofitting existing buildings to reduce embodied carbon. Public spaces, employment hubs, and a new NHS primary care facility are also part of the plan, promising to revitalise the area and reconnect it with Brentford High Street.

Bios

Ryan Jones - SLG Agency

For almost 20 years, Ryan’s focus has been on helping brands in the construction and manufacturing sectors tell their story.

His career began in PR, working for global businesses across a variety of sectors, before opting to focus on construction and the built environment.

In his role as Managing Director, Ryan works to ensure that SLG Agency continues to be one of the construction industry's leading specialist strategic and creative agencies, having seen its work recognised by the likes of Campaign, Marketing Week and The Drum in recent years.

Ryan is regularly asked to speak at trade shows and events, and to contribute thought leadership pieces to trade media. He is also a member of several industry advisory boards, including Constructing Excellence and the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce.

His passion for the construction sector has seen him work with clients on CSR campaigns that tackle the sector’s public perception, culminating in him recently launching a not-for-profit called Deconstruction.

Peter Sumpton - buildDifferent

Peter is a construction–marketing strategist and co-host of Construction Disrupted. With two decades’ experience spanning manufacturers, contractors and agencies, he helps organisations swap scattergun activity for clear strategy, joined-up planning and measurable outcomes.

His approach is practical and plain-spoken: cut the noise, focus on what moves the numbers, and build repeatable systems that teams can actually use.

Having seen first-hand how unfocused tactics waste time and budget, Peter works with leaders to align commercial goals, customer insight and content so marketing supports delivery rather than distracting from it.

Peter's passion lies in diagnosing organisations' marketing functions' capabilities and existing market, assembling what’s required to create a functional strategy, fit for purpose and scalable.

Marketing should create value, not just cost, and Peter’s work is about making that the norm.

In this episode we take a loom into record-breaking growth in manufacturing output under the threat of material price increases to critical updates on gateway 2 cases and efforts to improve inclusivity on job sites, we’ve got a lot to cover. Let’s get started!

Manufacturing Output Growth at 17-Month High in February

February marked a significant milestone for UK manufacturing, with output growth reaching its fastest pace in 17 months.

The S&P Global UK Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) recorded a score of 51.7, signaling expansion for the fourth consecutive month.

This growth was driven by increased new business from both domestic and international markets, with export orders rising at the fastest rate in four-and-a-half years.

Key markets such as North America, mainland China, the EU, and the Middle East contributed to this positive trend.

Rob Dobson, Director at S&P Global Market Intelligence, highlighted the sector’s optimism, with nearly 60% of manufacturers expecting production to rise over the next year. Factors such as new product launches, improved client confidence, and planned investments are expected to sustain this growth despite challenges like geopolitical uncertainty and recent government policy changes.

Special Mention: The Construction Products Association has issued warnings about the potential impact of rising material prices on UK construction jobs if the Middle East conflict continues.

Higher energy costs, particularly due to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz oil and gas route, could lead to significant increases in the cost of key construction products.

Gateway 2 Cases Backlog Virtually Cleared as Government Responds to Damning Lords Report on BSR

The UK government has made significant progress in addressing the backlog of Gateway 2 cases, a critical step in the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) process. This development comes in response to a damning report from the House of Lords, which criticized delays in implementing safety measures following the Grenfell Tower tragedy.

The Gateway 2 process is a vital part of ensuring that high-risk buildings meet stringent safety standards before construction begins. Clearing the backlog demonstrates the government’s commitment to improving building safety and restoring public confidence in the sector. This progress is expected to pave the way for more efficient and safer construction practices across the UK.

How the National Site Standard Can Make Women’s Inclusion the Norm on Construction Sites

The National Site Standard is emerging as a transformative initiative to promote gender inclusivity on construction sites. Historically, the construction industry has been male-dominated, but this standard aims to create a more welcoming and supportive environment for women.

By implementing policies that address workplace culture, safety, and accessibility, the National Site Standard seeks to break down barriers and encourage more women to pursue careers in construction. This initiative is not only a step toward gender equality but also a way to tap into a broader talent pool, ensuring the industry’s growth and innovation.

Bios

Ryan Jones - SLG Agency

For almost 20 years, Ryan’s focus has been on helping brands in the construction and manufacturing sectors tell their story.

His career began in PR, working for global businesses across a variety of sectors, before opting to focus on construction and the built environment.

In his role as Managing Director, Ryan works to ensure that SLG Agency continues to be one of the construction industry's leading specialist strategic and creative agencies, having seen its work recognised by the likes of Campaign, Marketing Week and The Drum in recent years.

Ryan is regularly asked to speak at trade shows and events, and to contribute thought leadership pieces to trade media. He is also a member of several industry advisory boards, including Constructing Excellence and the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce.

His passion for the construction sector has seen him work with clients on CSR campaigns that tackle the sector’s public perception, culminating in him recently launching a not-for-profit called Deconstruction.

Peter Sumpton - buildDifferent

Peter is a construction–marketing strategist and co-host of Construction Disrupted. With two decades’ experience spanning manufacturers, contractors and agencies, he helps organisations swap scattergun activity for clear strategy, joined-up planning and measurable outcomes.

His approach is practical and plain-spoken: cut the noise, focus on what moves the numbers, and build repeatable systems that teams can actually use.

Having seen first-hand how unfocused tactics waste time and budget, Peter works with leaders to align commercial goals, customer insight and content so marketing supports delivery rather than distracting from it.

Peter's passion lies in diagnosing organisations' marketing functions' capabilities and existing market, assembling what’s required to create a functional strategy, fit for purpose and scalable.

Marketing should create value, not just cost, and Peter’s work is about making that the norm.

In this episode we take a look at groundbreaking government reforms in building safety, the impact of artificial intelligence on jobs, and the awe-inspiring milestone of Barcelona's Sagrada Familia. An episode packed with insights and intrigue.

Government Cracks Down on Unsafe and Unregulated Building Products in Response to Grenfell Tower Tragedy

In the wake of the Grenfell Tower tragedy, the UK government has unveiled major proposals to reform construction product regulations.

The Construction Products Reform White Paper introduces a general safety requirement, mandating that all building products undergo proper assessments before use.

This is a significant shift, as currently, only about one-third of construction products are regulated.

The new measures aim to enhance safety, boost the economy, and instill confidence in developers to meet the country's housing needs, including the construction of 1.5 million homes.

The government has also made progress in implementing the Grenfell Tower Inquiry recommendations, with 70% expected to be completed by the end of the year.

Additionally, the Grenfell Tower Memorial (Expenditure) Bill has been introduced to fund a lasting memorial, an archive, and a permanent exhibition to honor the 72 lives lost in the tragedy.

Housing Secretary Steve Reed emphasized the importance of ensuring safety in homes and learning from past mistakes, while Minister for Building Safety, Fire, and Democracy Samantha Dixon reiterated the commitment to delivering safer homes and lasting change.

How AI will change your business in 2026

By 2026, artificial intelligence will be the ultimate multitasker in the business world, tackling everything from data analytics to digital twin technology.

James Garner, Head of AI and Data at Gleeds, highlights how AI will help businesses process massive amounts of data, track material prices, and even create virtual replicas of physical assets for real-time monitoring.

Imagine having a digital twin of your office that tells you when the coffee machine is about to break down—now that’s a future we can all get behind!

Special mention: Artificial intelligence: Is it really going to make us all redundant?

But what about the fear of job losses? Richard Steer reminds us that while AI is a game-changer, it’s not the villain in this story.

History shows that technology often creates new opportunities rather than wiping out jobs.

The key is to embrace AI as a partner, not a competitor.

Businesses can prepare by investing in training, adopting data-driven strategies, and using AI to innovate. The robots aren’t here to take over—they’re here to help us work smarter, not harder.

Barcelona's Sagrada Familia Reaches Maximum Height as Cross is Placed on Tower of Jesus Christ

Barcelona's iconic Sagrada Familia basilica has reached its maximum height, with a crane placing the upper arm of a cross atop the Tower of Jesus Christ.

This milestone marks the completion of the central tower, which now stands at an impressive 566 feet, making it the tallest church in the world.

The event is part of preparations for the centenary celebrations of architect Antoni Gaudi's death in June.

The Sagrada Familia, a masterpiece of Catalan Modernism, has been under construction since 1882.

Gaudi, who passed away in 1926, never expected to see his vision fully realized.

Today, millions of tourists visit the basilica annually, drawn by its unique blend of Catholic symbolism and organic forms.

The newly installed cross features four arms, designed to be visible from all directions, and may eventually include light beams to symbolize the church as a spiritual lighthouse.

The centenary celebrations will honor Gaudi's legacy, which extends beyond the Sagrada Familia to other architectural wonders in Barcelona and Spain.

The scaffolding surrounding the central tower is set to be removed by June, marking the inauguration of the Tower of Jesus Christ and further solidifying the basilica's status as a global architectural marvel.

Thank you for tuning in to this episode! Stay with us as we continue to explore the stories that shape our world.

Bios

Ryan Jones - SLG Agency

For almost 20 years, Ryan’s focus has been on helping brands in the construction and manufacturing sectors tell their story.

His career began in PR, working for global businesses across a variety of sectors, before opting to focus on construction and the built environment.

In his role as Managing Director, Ryan works to ensure that SLG Agency continues to be one of the construction industry's leading specialist strategic and creative agencies, having seen its work recognised by the likes of Campaign, Marketing Week and The Drum in recent years.

Ryan is regularly asked to speak at trade shows and events, and to contribute thought leadership pieces to trade media. He is also a member of several industry advisory boards, including Constructing Excellence and the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce.

His passion for the construction sector has seen him work with clients on CSR campaigns that tackle the sector’s public perception, culminating in him recently launching a not-for-profit called Deconstruction.

Peter Sumpton - buildDifferent

Peter is a construction–marketing strategist and co-host of Construction Disrupted. With two decades’ experience spanning manufacturers, contractors and agencies, he helps organisations swap scattergun activity for clear strategy, joined-up planning and measurable outcomes.

His approach is practical and plain-spoken: cut the noise, focus on what moves the numbers, and build repeatable systems that teams can actually use.

Having seen first-hand how unfocused tactics waste time and budget, Peter works with leaders to align commercial goals, customer insight and content so marketing supports delivery rather than distracting from it.

Peter's passion lies in diagnosing organisations' marketing functions' capabilities and existing market, assembling what’s required to create a functional strategy, fit for purpose and scalable.

Marketing should create value, not just cost, and Peter’s work is about making that the norm.

From signs of recovery in the building sector to the importance of prioritizing quality, and the ambitious restoration plans for the Palace of Westminster. Let's dive in!

Signs of a Building Recovery as Pipeline Begins to Stir

The construction sector is showing early signs of recovery, with tender price inflation forecasts improving and legacy projects re-emerging.

RIBA’s Workload Index indicates growing optimism, especially in private housing and infrastructure markets.

While challenges like financing and margin pressures persist, anticipated rate cuts in 2026 may stabilize the sector further.

Why Construction Needs to Think Differently About Quality

Dave Stitt highlights the need for a cultural shift in the construction industry to prioritize quality.

He emphasizes the importance of leadership in fostering accountability and integrating quality into every aspect of work. By doing so, the industry can improve outcomes for clients, workers, and the environment.

Could the Restoration of Parliament Really Take 61 Years?

The Palace of Westminster faces a massive restoration project, with options ranging from 19 to 61 years and costs up to £39.2 billion.

The "Full Decant" option, though controversial, is the fastest and most cost-effective, while the "Enhanced Maintenance and Improvement Plus" option minimizes disruption but extends the timeline significantly. A final decision is expected in 2030.

Bios

Ryan Jones - SLG Agency

For almost 20 years, Ryan’s focus has been on helping brands in the construction and manufacturing sectors tell their story.

His career began in PR, working for global businesses across a variety of sectors, before opting to focus on construction and the built environment.

In his role as Managing Director, Ryan works to ensure that SLG Agency continues to be one of the construction industry's leading specialist strategic and creative agencies, having seen its work recognised by the likes of Campaign, Marketing Week and The Drum in recent years.

Ryan is regularly asked to speak at trade shows and events, and to contribute thought leadership pieces to trade media. He is also a member of several industry advisory boards, including Constructing Excellence and the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce.

His passion for the construction sector has seen him work with clients on CSR campaigns that tackle the sector’s public perception, culminating in him recently launching a not-for-profit called Deconstruction.

Peter Sumpton - buildDifferent

Peter is a construction–marketing strategist and co-host of Construction Disrupted. With two decades’ experience spanning manufacturers, contractors and agencies, he helps organisations swap scattergun activity for clear strategy, joined-up planning and measurable outcomes.

His approach is practical and plain-spoken: cut the noise, focus on what moves the numbers, and build repeatable systems that teams can actually use.

Having seen first-hand how unfocused tactics waste time and budget, Peter works with leaders to align commercial goals, customer insight and content so marketing supports delivery rather than distracting from it.

Peter's passion lies in diagnosing organisations' marketing functions' capabilities and existing market, assembling what’s required to create a functional strategy, fit for purpose and scalable.

Marketing should create value, not just cost, and Peter’s work is about making that the norm.

Three compelling topics: the challenges of regulatory delays in high-risk building approvals, the transformative power of trauma-informed design, and why being an architect remains a rewarding and vital profession despite industry challenges. Let’s dive in!

Gateway Three Delays Trigger Fears of Bottleneck

The construction industry in the UK is facing significant challenges due to delays in the gateway three approval process for higher-risk buildings (HRBs).

This stage, overseen by the Building Safety Regulator (BSR), is critical as it ensures newly built HRBs meet safety standards before occupancy.

However, recent data reveals that dozens of projects are stuck in this phase, with some applications taking over 550 days to process—far exceeding the statutory eight-week deadline.

These delays are financially damaging for developers and frustrating for residents awaiting safe, modern homes.

Experts like Vijay Bange from Irwin Mitchell and Allan Binns from Project Four have highlighted the need for greater transparency, improved communication, and better resourcing to address these bottlenecks.

The transition of the BSR to an independent body under the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government offers hope for improvement, but the current situation underscores the urgent need for reform.

How Trauma-Informed Design Can Shape Spaces of Safety and Trust

Trauma-informed design (TID) is revolutionizing how architects approach inclusive spaces, moving beyond compliance to create environments that foster safety, trust, and emotional well-being. The Thrive Health and Wellbeing Centre at the University of Salford serves as a prime example of this approach.

Designed by AHR in collaboration with the university, the building integrates principles of trauma-informed care into its architecture.

Key elements of TID include safety and trust, choice and empowerment, community and connection, and beauty and joy. For instance, the Thrive Centre features a bright central atrium that provides clear sightlines and a sense of orientation, reducing stress and promoting confidence.

The design also incorporates moveable furniture, adjustable lighting, and a mix of open and enclosed spaces to empower users with choice and control.

The project demonstrates how architecture can be a tool for care, creating spaces that are not only functional but also emotionally supportive. The Thrive Centre is a model for future projects, showing how empathy and evidence-based design can lead to inclusive environments that benefit everyone.

16 Reasons Why You Should Still Be an Architect in 2026

Despite the challenges faced by the architecture profession, there are many reasons why being an architect remains a fulfilling and impactful career in 2026. Here are some highlights from industry professionals:

1. Thinking Beyond Buildings: Architects are trained to tackle complex challenges, making them excellent problem solvers and entrepreneurs.
2. Preserving Heritage: Architects play a crucial role in reframing existing buildings as assets, contributing to sustainability and cultural preservation.
3. Collaborative Practice: The shift towards teamwork in architecture enhances the profession’s civic, cultural, and ethical impact.
4. Lasting Impact: Architects leave behind tangible, visible changes that shape how people live and interact with their environments.
5. Creative Housing Solutions: Architects are essential in addressing housing crises by designing homes that go beyond minimum standards.
6. Opportunities in Development: Architects transitioning into developers can take greater control of projects, fostering innovation and resilience.
7. Universal Design: Thoughtful architecture touches everyday lives, creating spaces that improve comfort, well-being, and quality of life.

These reasons highlight the enduring importance of architecture as a profession that combines creativity, responsibility, and the ability to make a lasting impact on society.

Bios

Ryan Jones - SLG Agency

For almost 20 years, Ryan’s focus has been on helping brands in the construction and manufacturing sectors tell their story.

His career began in PR, working for global businesses across a variety of sectors, before opting to focus on construction and the built environment.

In his role as Managing Director, Ryan works to ensure that SLG Agency continues to be one of the construction industry's leading specialist strategic and creative agencies, having seen its work recognised by the likes of Campaign, Marketing Week and The Drum in recent years.

Ryan is regularly asked to speak at trade shows and events, and to contribute thought leadership pieces to trade media. He is also a member of several industry advisory boards, including Constructing Excellence and the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce.

His passion for the construction sector has seen him work with clients on CSR campaigns that tackle the sector’s public perception, culminating in him recently launching a not-for-profit called Deconstruction.

Peter Sumpton - buildDifferent

Peter is a construction–marketing strategist and co-host of Construction Disrupted. With two decades’ experience spanning manufacturers, contractors and agencies, he helps organisations swap scattergun activity for clear strategy, joined-up planning and measurable outcomes.

His approach is practical and plain-spoken: cut the noise, focus on what moves the numbers, and build repeatable systems that teams can actually use.

Having seen first-hand how unfocused tactics waste time and budget, Peter works with leaders to align commercial goals, customer insight and content so marketing supports delivery rather than distracting from it.

Peter's passion lies in diagnosing organisations' marketing functions' capabilities and existing market, assembling what’s required to create a functional strategy, fit for purpose and scalable.

Marketing should create value, not just cost, and Peter’s work is about making that the norm.

From rising costs in the UK construction sector to the impact of data center growth on labor markets, and even the futuristic use of robot dogs in nuclear decommissioning, we’ve got a fascinating lineup of topics to discuss.

UK Construction Costs Set to Rise by 3.6% as Uncertainty Stalls Development, Says Currie & Brown

Consultancy firm Currie & Brown has forecasted a 3.6% rise in UK construction costs for 2026, surpassing the global average of 2.4%. This increase reflects moderate growth amidst market uncertainties.

Contributing factors include steady demand across infrastructure, healthcare, technology, and industrial sectors, alongside challenges such as a shrinking workforce, shifting trade tariffs, supply chain disruptions, and energy price volatility.

The report highlights the importance of agility in navigating these challenges. Recommendations for mitigating cost risks include setting realistic starting points, planning for multiple outcomes, adjusting project scope based on labor and market capacity, and leveraging technology to improve decision-making processes.

Data Centre Drain Ramps-Up M&E Labour Costs

The construction boom in London’s data center sector is driving up labor costs for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) workers. The latest London Main Contractor Survey by AECOM reveals that the rapid expansion of data centers has led to acute shortages of skilled tradespeople, forcing contractors to compete for a limited pool of high-quality subcontractors. This competition has resulted in significant increases in labor prices.

To address these challenges, some contractors are creating in-house MEP divisions to manage their projects more effectively. While short-term confidence among contractors remains low, the survey indicates a more optimistic outlook for 2026, with Tier 1 contractors reporting healthy order books across diverse sectors such as commercial, public, and infrastructure projects.

Spot the Robot Dog Swabs Down Sellafield Like a Human

Sellafield has introduced Spot, the robot dog, to perform swabbing tasks for monitoring radioactivity as part of its nuclear decommissioning efforts. Swabbing involves using circular paper filters to measure radiation levels on various surfaces. Spot is equipped with a patent-pending contamination swabbing tool that replicates the complex, dexterous movements of human swabbing.

This innovative use of robotics enhances safety by reducing human exposure to contaminated areas and improves efficiency in collecting vital data for decommissioning strategies. Spot’s capabilities are further enhanced by a haptic controller and custom software that translate real-time hand movements into commands for its manipulator, showcasing how technology is revolutionizing the nuclear industry and paving the way for safer and more efficient operations.

Bios

Ryan Jones - SLG Agency

For almost 20 years, Ryan’s focus has been on helping brands in the construction and manufacturing sectors tell their story.

His career began in PR, working for global businesses across a variety of sectors, before opting to focus on construction and the built environment.

In his role as Managing Director, Ryan works to ensure that SLG Agency continues to be one of the construction industry's leading specialist strategic and creative agencies, having seen its work recognised by the likes of Campaign, Marketing Week and The Drum in recent years.

Ryan is regularly asked to speak at trade shows and events, and to contribute thought leadership pieces to trade media. He is also a member of several industry advisory boards, including Constructing Excellence and the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce.

His passion for the construction sector has seen him work with clients on CSR campaigns that tackle the sector’s public perception, culminating in him recently launching a not-for-profit called Deconstruction.

Peter Sumpton - buildDifferent

Peter is a construction–marketing strategist and co-host of Construction Disrupted. With two decades’ experience spanning manufacturers, contractors and agencies, he helps organisations swap scattergun activity for clear strategy, joined-up planning and measurable outcomes.

His approach is practical and plain-spoken: cut the noise, focus on what moves the numbers, and build repeatable systems that teams can actually use.

Having seen first-hand how unfocused tactics waste time and budget, Peter works with leaders to align commercial goals, customer insight and content so marketing supports delivery rather than distracting from it.

Peter's passion lies in diagnosing organisations' marketing functions' capabilities and existing market, assembling what’s required to create a functional strategy, fit for purpose and scalable.

Marketing should create value, not just cost, and Peter’s work is about making that the norm.

This week we're discussing three key topics, covering the importance of self-belief in delivering the UK’s infrastructure ambitions, the progress of HS2 tunnelling into central London, and why construction leaders must plan without delusion. Let’s dive in.

‘We need more self-belief’… Chris Ball of AtkinsRéalis explains how the industry can deliver the UK’s infrastructure ambitions

Chris Ball, UK and Ireland president of AtkinsRéalis, highlights the need for self-belief in the construction industry to deliver the government’s ambitious 10-year infrastructure strategy. He stresses the importance of collaboration with the government, developing strong business cases, and attracting private investment to ensure project success.

1. Self-belief and pace: Regaining confidence and moving projects forward efficiently is crucial.
2. Collaborative contracting: Alliancing models foster trust and improve outcomes.
3. Attracting investment: De-risking projects and delivering reliable returns are essential for investor confidence.

Ball calls on the industry to take ownership and work proactively with the government to achieve infrastructure goals.

HS2 Begins Tunnelling to Central London

The HS2 high-speed rail project has reached a major milestone with tunnelling into central London.

At Old Oak Common station, the first of two massive tunnel boring machines began its 4.5-mile journey to Euston, marking a significant step in the project’s progress.

1. Engineering marvel: The 1,624-tonne tunnel boring machine showcases cutting-edge technology.
2. Economic impact: Regeneration of the Euston area could contribute £41 billion to the UK economy and create 34,000 jobs.
3. Project reset: HS2 Ltd CEO Mark Wild has implemented a reset to ensure proper sequencing, cost control, and timely delivery.

This milestone demonstrates HS2’s transformative potential for connectivity and economic growth.

Why Construction Leaders Must Plan Without Delusion

Greg Wilkes, founder of Develop Coaching, emphasises the dangers of overly optimistic planning in construction. He advocates for honest planning, confronting challenges, and setting clear, actionable goals.

1. Honest planning: Address past failures and bottlenecks.
2. Leadership consistency: Teams reflect their leaders’ behaviours, so clarity and follow-through are vital.
3. Behavioural change: Translate ambition into specific, non-negotiable actions.
4. Leadership growth: Develop leadership capacity and delegate effectively.

Wilkes stresses that planning is a promise to the team, and breaking it can erode trust and culture. Leaders must prioritise clarity and consistency for success.

Bios

Ryan Jones - SLG Agency

For almost 20 years, Ryan’s focus has been on helping brands in the construction and manufacturing sectors tell their story.

His career began in PR, working for global businesses across a variety of sectors, before opting to focus on construction and the built environment.

In his role as Managing Director, Ryan works to ensure that SLG Agency continues to be one of the construction industry's leading specialist strategic and creative agencies, having seen its work recognised by the likes of Campaign, Marketing Week and The Drum in recent years.

Ryan is regularly asked to speak at trade shows and events, and to contribute thought leadership pieces to trade media. He is also a member of several industry advisory boards, including Constructing Excellence and the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce.

His passion for the construction sector has seen him work with clients on CSR campaigns that tackle the sector’s public perception, culminating in him recently launching a not-for-profit called Deconstruction.

Peter Sumpton - buildDifferent

Peter is a construction–marketing strategist and co-host of Construction Disrupted. With two decades’ experience spanning manufacturers, contractors and agencies, he helps organisations swap scattergun activity for clear strategy, joined-up planning and measurable outcomes.

His approach is practical and plain-spoken: cut the noise, focus on what moves the numbers, and build repeatable systems that teams can actually use.

Having seen first-hand how unfocused tactics waste time and budget, Peter works with leaders to align commercial goals, customer insight and content so marketing supports delivery rather than distracting from it.

Peter's passion lies in diagnosing organisations' marketing functions' capabilities and existing market, assembling what’s required to create a functional strategy, fit for purpose and scalable.

Marketing should create value, not just cost, and Peter’s work is about making that the norm.

From the UK’s ambitious Warm Homes Plan to calls for fraud investigations in insulation schemes, and the completion of a groundbreaking Antarctic construction project, exploring the southernmost, coldest, driest, and windiest construction project we could find, showing that delivering a project on time, even "when it's a bit cold and wet", is achievable.

Everything You Need to Know About the Warm Homes Plan

The UK’s Warm Homes Plan is finally here, promising a transformative £15 billion investment to upgrade homes, reduce energy bills, and tackle fuel poverty.

With ambitious goals to lift one million families out of fuel poverty, triple rooftop solar installations, and install 450,000 heat pumps annually, the plan aims to revolutionise energy efficiency across the country.

Key highlights include:

1. Support for low-income households: Free upgrades like solar panels and heat pumps to reduce energy bills and improve living conditions.
2. Low-cost loans for renewables: Nearly £2 billion allocated for low-interest loans to make energy-efficient technologies accessible to all.
3. Minimum energy efficiency standards for rental properties: By 2030, most rental properties must achieve a minimum EPC C rating, benefiting over 1.5 million households.

However, the plan faces significant challenges. Industry experts warn that delays in its rollout and the cancellation of the ECO scheme have left the UK without the workforce needed to deliver its goals.

David Weatherall of the Building Research Establishment humorously remarked, “I’ve been expecting it next week for about the last four months.” This delay has led to concerns about whether the industry can meet the plan’s ambitious targets.

The government’s decision to drop the phase-out date for gas boilers has also sparked criticism, with experts urging a stronger push toward renewable energy technologies.

While the Warm Homes Plan has been welcomed by many, others argue that the incentives are too weak to drive the necessary change.

As one industry insider put it, “The cliff edge has probably been reached.” When the Warm Homes Plan finally arrives, will there be an industry left to deliver it?

MPs Call for Fraud Probe in Solid Wall Insulation Scandal

The UK’s ECO insulation program has come under fire, with MPs calling for a Serious Fraud Office investigation into widespread fraud and failures in the delivery of insulation schemes.

The Public Accounts Committee has revealed shocking statistics, including a 98% failure rate in external wall insulation installations under the ECO4 scheme, leaving over 30,000 homes with defective work.

Key findings from the report include:

1. Fraud and non-compliance: Ofgem identified fraudulent installations worth 1.75% of the scheme’s value, but MPs believe the true figure is much higher.
2. Health and safety risks: 6% of external wall insulation and 2% of internal wall insulation posed immediate risks, including inadequate ventilation and electrical safety failures.
3. Slow remediation: Only 4,603 homes have been fixed out of an estimated 32,000 to 35,000 affected, raising concerns about the pace of progress.

The committee has criticised the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero for its lack of oversight and accountability, warning that the £15 billion Warm Homes Plan risks repeating the same mistakes.

Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown, Chair of the Public Accounts Committee, described the ECO4 scheme as “the most catastrophic fiasco” he has seen in his 12 years on the committee.

This scandal highlights the urgent need for systemic reform in the delivery of energy efficiency programs to restore public confidence and ensure that future initiatives, like the Warm Homes Plan, are successful.

Largest UK Antarctic Construction Project Completes on Time

In a remarkable achievement, the British Antarctic Survey has officially opened the £100 million Discovery Building at Rothera Research Station.

This six-year project, part of the £670 million Antarctic Infrastructure Modernisation Programme, marks the largest construction project ever undertaken by the UK in Antarctica.

Key features of the Discovery Building:

1. Sustainability: Designed to reduce carbon emissions at Rothera Research Station by 25% through improved energy efficiency.
2. State-of-the-art facilities: The building includes over 100 rooms and spaces, providing all power, drinking water, and communications for the research station.
3. Environmental focus: Phased deconstruction of outdated buildings is being carefully managed to minimise environmental impact, with materials being reused where possible.

The project’s success is a testament to the collaboration and long-term planning required to deliver major infrastructure in one of the world’s most challenging environments. The Discovery Building will serve as the operational hub for UK Antarctic research, supporting critical studies on climate change and its global impacts.

As Lord Patrick Vallance, Minister of State for Science, Research, Innovation, and Nuclear, stated, “Antarctic research is essential to understanding how changing climate patterns could affect our planet in the years to come, from food security to flooding risk, so together we can act.”

This milestone underscores the UK’s commitment to advancing polar science and addressing global challenges through innovative infrastructure and research.

Bios

Ryan Jones - SLG Agency

For almost 20 years, Ryan’s focus has been on helping brands in the construction and manufacturing sectors tell their story.

His career began in PR, working for global businesses across a variety of sectors, before opting to focus on construction and the built environment.

In his role as Managing Director, Ryan works to ensure that SLG Agency continues to be one of the construction industry's leading specialist strategic and creative agencies, having seen its work recognised by the likes of Campaign, Marketing Week and The Drum in recent years.

Ryan is regularly asked to speak at trade shows and events, and to contribute thought leadership pieces to trade media. He is also a member of several industry advisory boards, including Constructing Excellence and the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce.

His passion for the construction sector has seen him work with clients on CSR campaigns that tackle the sector’s public perception, culminating in him recently launching a not-for-profit called Deconstruction.

Peter Sumpton - buildDifferent

Peter is a construction–marketing strategist and co-host of Construction Disrupted. With two decades’ experience spanning manufacturers, contractors and agencies, he helps organisations swap scattergun activity for clear strategy, joined-up planning and measurable outcomes.

His approach is practical and plain-spoken: cut the noise, focus on what moves the numbers, and build repeatable systems that teams can actually use.

Having seen first-hand how unfocused tactics waste time and budget, Peter works with leaders to align commercial goals, customer insight and content so marketing supports delivery rather than distracting from it.

Peter's passion lies in diagnosing organisations' marketing functions' capabilities and existing market, assembling what’s required to create a functional strategy, fit for purpose and scalable.

Marketing should create value, not just cost, and Peter’s work is about making that the norm.

We start by exploring the industry’s high note as 2025 wraps up, which may go some way to explaining the £39 billion worth of projects driving growth in 2026. There is a word of caution, though, for the government’s ambitious Northern Powerhouse Rail plan, and we wrap it all up with how innovations like AI and robotics are reshaping the sector (again)! Let's go:

Construction Ends 2025 on High as Analysts Predict ‘Structural Shift’ Due to Data Centre Demand

As 2025 comes to a close, the construction industry is poised for a significant shift, driven by the growing demand for data centres and other infrastructure projects. Analysts predict a "structural shift" in the sector, with data centres becoming a major focus due to the increasing reliance on digital technologies. This trend is expected to drive substantial growth and investment in the industry.

Looking ahead to 2026, Glenigan’s market analysis highlights the Top 100 construction projects set to generate £39 billion worth of work. Civil engineering projects will lead the charge, contributing £23.8 billion across 29 major initiatives. The largest project is the £10.2 billion Lower Thames Crossing in Kent, which includes tunnels and approaches. Other significant projects include the A5 Western Transport Corridor in Northern Ireland (£1.7 billion) and Network Rail’s £1 billion Project Reach for trackside fibre optic cable installation in London.

The office and commercial sector is also rebounding, with 23 projects valued at £6.3 billion, including the £750 million Bidder Street Data Centre in East London and a £700 million British Library extension. The housing sector is set to see 37 projects worth £6.9 billion, with private residential developments leading the way. The largest housing project is a £577 million scheme at Marsh Wall in London.

With projects spanning 10 different sectors, the construction industry is gearing up for a promising year in 2026, with better times ahead for all areas of the industry.

‘Vital that Government Learns Lessons from HS2’: Reaction to Northern Powerhouse Rail Plan

The UK government has announced a £45 billion commitment to the Northern Powerhouse Rail (NPR) project, aiming to transform connectivity across Northern England. The ambitious plan includes a new Birmingham–Manchester rail line and improved east-west links between cities such as Liverpool, Manchester, Leeds, and Newcastle. The project is expected to boost economic growth, create jobs, and improve transport infrastructure in the region.

However, industry leaders stress the importance of learning from the challenges faced during the HS2 project. Key lessons include the need for clear timelines, defined project purposes, and robust funding structures. The Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) and other stakeholders emphasise the importance of early planning, clear leadership, and stable pipelines to ensure the success of NPR.

The project is set to begin with £1.1 billion allocated for planning, design, and development work during the current Spending Review period. Construction is expected to start in the 2030s, with the project being delivered in phases. Industry leaders are calling for detailed plans, committed budgets, and clear timelines to ensure the project’s success.

The NPR project is seen as a once-in-a-generation opportunity to address economic and social inequalities in the North, improve connectivity, and unlock the region’s vast economic potential. However, concerns remain about the timeline and the need for sustained commitment across political cycles to ensure the project’s completion.

Simplification, AI, Robotics? Finding the Fix for Construction in 2026

The construction industry faced significant challenges in 2025, with market sentiment taking a hit and affordability remaining a major issue. However, 2026 offers a glimmer of hope, with falling inflation and policy reforms potentially paving the way for growth and renewal. Analysts believe that the industry must rethink its approach to address cost, value, and productivity challenges.

Digital technologies and AI are emerging as key solutions to these challenges. Innovations such as autonomous vehicles, robot "dogs," and robot-ready digital twins are transforming the construction landscape. For example, Mercedes and Nvidia’s Alpamayo AI tools are designed to handle unexpected events on construction sites, while Field AI adds site-specific risk awareness to robotic systems.

The UK’s market for Robots as a Service (RaaS) is expanding, with machines like the Hilti Jaibot facilitating precise drilling and installation tasks. Agentic AI is also gaining traction, offering the ability to automate multi-step activities and processes on projects. These technologies are expected to reduce costs, address skills shortages, and improve productivity.

Despite these advancements, the construction industry remains resistant to innovation due to the complexity of projects and the lack of standardisation. Experts argue that simplifying designs and processes is crucial to driving down costs and improving efficiency. By embracing digital technologies and rethinking traditional models, the construction industry can overcome its challenges and achieve sustainable growth in 2026.

Bios

Ryan Jones - SLG Agency

For almost 20 years, Ryan’s focus has been on helping brands in the construction and manufacturing sectors tell their story.

His career began in PR, working for global businesses across a variety of sectors, before opting to focus on construction and the built environment.

In his role as Managing Director, Ryan works to ensure that SLG Agency continues to be one of the construction industry's leading specialist strategic and creative agencies, having seen its work recognised by the likes of Campaign, Marketing Week and The Drum in recent years.

Ryan is regularly asked to speak at trade shows and events, and to contribute thought leadership pieces to trade media. He is also a member of several industry advisory boards, including Constructing Excellence and the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce.

His passion for the construction sector has seen him work with clients on CSR campaigns that tackle the sector’s public perception, culminating in him recently launching a not-for-profit called Deconstruction.

Peter Sumpton - buildDifferent

Peter is a construction–marketing strategist and co-host of Construction Disrupted. With two decades’ experience spanning manufacturers, contractors and agencies, he helps organisations swap scattergun activity for clear strategy, joined-up planning and measurable outcomes.

His approach is practical and plain-spoken: cut the noise, focus on what moves the numbers, and build repeatable systems that teams can actually use.

Having seen first-hand how unfocused tactics waste time and budget, Peter works with leaders to align commercial goals, customer insight and content so marketing supports delivery rather than distracting from it.

Peter's passion lies in diagnosing organisations' marketing functions' capabilities and existing market, assembling what’s required to create a functional strategy, fit for purpose and scalable.

Marketing should create value, not just cost, and Peter’s work is about making that the norm.

It's good to be back (Happy New Year everyone). 2026, the year construction builds more than just homes, it's the year for building positivity, one episode, three headlines, two opinions and one takeaway at a time. Let's get to it:

1. Market Forecast: Strong Order Books Drive Tender Inflation as Smaller Firms Struggle

The UK construction industry demonstrated resilience in 2025 despite economic uncertainty. While overall sentiment suggested a slowdown, data revealed that construction output grew faster than services or manufacturing. However, this growth came with challenges:

1. Tender Price Inflation: Tender prices increased by 3.0% in 2025, driven by persistent inflation and subdued demand that failed to yield cost savings.
2. Building Costs: Building costs rose by 3.5%, with significant price hikes in imported materials like wood, aluminium, and electric water heaters.
3. Smaller Firms Struggling: Smaller construction firms faced difficulties due to rising costs and economic pressures, highlighting the need for targeted support to ensure their survival.

In parallel, the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) reported a record year-end performance in processing Gateway 2 building control applications. Key highlights include:

1. A 250% increase in Gateway 2 determinations in the final quarter of 2025 compared to the first quarter.
2. A focus on resolving legacy cases, with 83% of older applications approved.
3. The establishment of an Innovation Unit to streamline approvals for new build applications, achieving results in just 12-13 weeks.

These developments indicate a positive trajectory for the industry, but challenges such as cost inflation and the struggles of smaller firms remain critical issues to address.

2. Fast Homes at Scale: ‘We’ve All the Tools We Need to Solve Homelessness’

The homelessness crisis in London has reached alarming levels, with over 130,000 households in temporary accommodation as of 2025. The cost of housing families in temporary solutions has skyrocketed to nearly £3 billion annually, surpassing the budget for building affordable homes.

Despite the challenges, innovative solutions exist to address this crisis:

1. Modular Construction: Companies like ZED PODS and RSHP have developed modular housing solutions that can be deployed quickly and efficiently. For example, ZED PODS installed 25 zero-carbon homes above a car park in Bromley, retaining most parking spaces below.
2. Prototype Modular Homes: RCKa and Rollalong have created high-quality modular homes that can be installed in under two hours. These homes are cost-effective, sustainable, and offer a design life of over 60 years.

To scale these solutions, the regulatory and policy environment must adapt. Expanding permitted development regulations and adopting progressive procurement practices are essential steps. With determination and creativity, the UK can leverage existing tools to address homelessness and build a robust manufacturing sector for permanent housing.

3. Workforce Challenges and Opportunities: Over 20% of Built Environment Workers Have Considered Changing Profession

The UK construction industry faces significant workforce challenges, with 21% of built environment workers considering leaving the profession due to the fast pace of change. Key concerns include:

1. Rising workloads and pressure, with 50% of employees expressing concern about increasing demands.
2. Fear of job difficulty, loss of control, and poor communication during times of change.

Despite these challenges, construction careers are among the fastest-growing jobs in the UK, according to LinkedIn’s Jobs on the Rise list for 2026. Notable roles include:

1. Building Inspectors: Ranked as the fastest-growing construction job, these professionals ensure compliance with regulations and standards.
2. Other Growing Roles: Heating and air conditioning engineers, preconstruction managers, land managers, energy analysts, and property directors are also in high demand.

The industry’s rapid evolution, driven by technological advancements like AI, is both a challenge and an opportunity. While AI is expected to deliver value, it has also contributed to change fatigue among workers. Addressing the skills shortage and improving communication during transitions are critical to retaining talent and ensuring the industry’s growth.

Bios

Ryan Jones - SLG Agency

For almost 20 years, Ryan’s focus has been on helping brands in the construction and manufacturing sectors tell their story.

His career began in PR, working for global businesses across a variety of sectors, before opting to focus on construction and the built environment.

In his role as Managing Director, Ryan works to ensure that SLG Agency continues to be one of the construction industry's leading specialist strategic and creative agencies, having seen its work recognised by the likes of Campaign, Marketing Week and The Drum in recent years.

Ryan is regularly asked to speak at trade shows and events, and to contribute thought leadership pieces to trade media. He is also a member of several industry advisory boards, including Constructing Excellence and the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce.

His passion for the construction sector has seen him work with clients on CSR campaigns that tackle the sector’s public perception, culminating in him recently launching a not-for-profit called Deconstruction.

Peter Sumpton - buildDifferent

Peter is a construction–marketing strategist and co-host of Construction Disrupted. With two decades’ experience spanning manufacturers, contractors and agencies, he helps organisations swap scattergun activity for clear strategy, joined-up planning and measurable outcomes.

His approach is practical and plain-spoken: cut the noise, focus on what moves the numbers, and build repeatable systems that teams can actually use.

Having seen first-hand how unfocused tactics waste time and budget, Peter works with leaders to align commercial goals, customer insight and content so marketing supports delivery rather than distracting from it.

Peter's passion lies in diagnosing organisations' marketing functions' capabilities and existing market, assembling what’s required to create a functional strategy, fit for purpose and scalable.

Marketing should create value, not just cost, and Peter’s work is about making that the norm.

In this episode, we take a concise look back at the most significant UK construction news stories of 2025. The projects, policies and pressures that shaped the year. Every item we discuss in this episode has previously featured in our co-host Ryan Jones’s weekly LinkedIn Construction Round-Up, (here's a link to an example - follow Ryan while you're there - well worth it). In fact, most of our headlines come from this each week..

And yes, we do mention AI in this episode, and no, despite everything you may have read this year, AI still hasn’t stolen all our jobs, and it doesn't make the top 3 this year!

So what were the top 3 headlines from 2025?

One year of Labour — are we likely to get Britain building again?

Labour’s first year in government has seen a shift in tone towards housing, with a focus on planning reform and promises to “get Britain building again.” The government aims to deliver 1.5 million homes by 2029, but the next 12 months will be critical in determining whether these reforms translate into tangible results.

Industry leaders are cautiously optimistic, but concerns remain about whether the planning system can overcome delays and bottlenecks to meet ambitious targets.

Colleges halt construction enrolments as demand hits the roof

Colleges are struggling to meet surging demand for construction and engineering courses, with over half reporting waiting lists and some halting enrolments altogether. A demographic surge in young learners and a £600 million government investment to train 60,000 construction workers have overwhelmed college capacity.

Nearly a third of colleges have limited construction apprenticeship starts, raising concerns about the ability to meet the growing demand for skilled workers in the sector.

The case for optimism in construction

Despite economic challenges, there are signs of hope for the UK construction industry. Easing inflation and interest rate cuts are stabilising material costs and improving financing conditions.

The government’s £530 billion infrastructure pipeline, with 780 projects, has sparked cautious optimism, particularly in the commercial property and infrastructure sectors. Increased commercial lending and temporary vacancies in construction suggest developers are preparing for new projects, but industry leaders stress the need for government action to address regulatory delays and funding uncertainties.

Bios

Ryan Jones - SLG Agency

For almost 20 years, Ryan’s focus has been on helping brands in the construction and manufacturing sectors tell their story.

His career began in PR, working for global businesses across a variety of sectors, before opting to focus on construction and the built environment.

In his role as Managing Director, Ryan works to ensure that SLG Agency continues to be one of the construction industry's leading specialist strategic and creative agencies, having seen its work recognised by the likes of Campaign, Marketing Week and The Drum in recent years.

Ryan is regularly asked to speak at trade shows and events, and to contribute thought leadership pieces to trade media. He is also a member of several industry advisory boards, including Constructing Excellence and the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce.

His passion for the construction sector has seen him work with clients on CSR campaigns that tackle the sector’s public perception, culminating in him recently launching a not-for-profit called Deconstruction.

Peter Sumpton - buildDifferent

Peter is a construction–marketing strategist and co-host of Construction Disrupted. With two decades’ experience spanning manufacturers, contractors and agencies, he helps organisations swap scattergun activity for clear strategy, joined-up planning and measurable outcomes.

His approach is practical and plain-spoken: cut the noise, focus on what moves the numbers, and build repeatable systems that teams can actually use.

Having seen first-hand how unfocused tactics waste time and budget, Peter works with leaders to align commercial goals, customer insight and content so marketing supports delivery rather than distracting from it.

Peter's passion lies in diagnosing organisations' marketing functions' capabilities and existing market, assembling what’s required to create a functional strategy, fit for purpose and scalable.

Marketing should create value, not just cost, and Peter’s work is about making that the norm.

From groundbreaking architecture to transformative infrastructure projects and the future of construction technology, we dive deep into the topics that are redefining industries and communities.

Frank Gehry: from LA experimentalist to the architect of the Bilbao effect

In this episode, we celebrate the life and legacy of Frank Gehry, one of the most influential architects of our time. From his experimental beginnings in Los Angeles to iconic global projects like the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao and the Walt Disney Concert Hall, Gehry’s work transformed architecture into an art form. We reflect on his groundbreaking designs, his ability to create cultural spectacles, and his quieter, more intimate projects like Maggie’s Centres, which showcase his versatility and humanity. Gehry’s architectural vocabulary continues to inspire and shape the world.

Blackpool seeks contractors to join £200M North West highways and civils framework

Blackpool Council has launched an ambitious £200 million Highways Framework to enhance the region’s infrastructure over the next four years. This initiative is divided into two major areas: highways surfacing and civil engineering works, with plans to secure up to eight suppliers to deliver extensive projects. The framework aims to improve the North West’s highway network, foster collaboration with neighbouring authorities, and support regional growth through innovative and sustainable infrastructure development.

Construction industry outlook 2026: The trends shaping how contractors build, budget and deliver

The construction industry is undergoing a transformative shift as it prepares for 2026. This episode explores how technology, including AI, automation, and predictive analytics, is revolutionising workflows and decision-making processes. We discuss the challenges posed by cost pressures, labour constraints, and the demand for operational efficiency, as well as the strategies contractors are adopting to operate leaner and smarter. From just-in-time delivery practices to remote monitoring, we uncover how the industry is adapting to a rapidly changing landscape.

Bios

Ryan Jones - SLG Agency

For almost 20 years, Ryan’s focus has been on helping brands in the construction and manufacturing sectors tell their story.

His career began in PR, working for global businesses across a variety of sectors, before opting to focus on construction and the built environment.

In his role as Managing Director, Ryan works to ensure that SLG Agency continues to be one of the construction industry's leading specialist strategic and creative agencies, having seen its work recognised by the likes of Campaign, Marketing Week and The Drum in recent years.

Ryan is regularly asked to speak at trade shows and events, and to contribute thought leadership pieces to trade media. He is also a member of several industry advisory boards, including Constructing Excellence and the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce.

His passion for the construction sector has seen him work with clients on CSR campaigns that tackle the sector’s public perception, culminating in him recently launching a not-for-profit called Deconstruction.

Peter Sumpton - buildDifferent

Peter is a construction–marketing strategist and co-host of Construction Disrupted. With two decades’ experience spanning manufacturers, contractors and agencies, he helps organisations swap scattergun activity for clear strategy, joined-up planning and measurable outcomes.

His approach is practical and plain-spoken: cut the noise, focus on what moves the numbers, and build repeatable systems that teams can actually use.

Having seen first-hand how unfocused tactics waste time and budget, Peter works with leaders to align commercial goals, customer insight and content so marketing supports delivery rather than distracting from it.

Peter's passion lies in diagnosing organisations' marketing functions' capabilities and existing market, assembling what’s required to create a functional strategy, fit for purpose and scalable.

Marketing should create value, not just cost, and Peter’s work is about making that the norm.

The UK construction industry is at a crossroads, facing challenges that range from economic recovery to skills shortages and infrastructure costs. But with the right strategies and investments, there’s hope for a brighter, more sustainable future. This episode highlights this perfectly.

UK Construction Grinds Back into Gear

The UK construction industry is showing signs of life after a challenging year, with a modest 3% increase in project starts from August to November 2025. While this is a step in the right direction, the sector still has a long way to go to recover from a 4% dip compared to 2024 levels.

Standout performers - offices, industrial projects, and social housing - are leading the charge in this recovery. Regional disparities are clear, from London’s 77% surge in project starts to the West Midlands’ 13% decline. Is the government’s recent budget enough to keep the momentum going, or are we just patching up potholes on the road to recovery?

UK Lacks the Skills to Hit Net Zero, MPs Warn

A committee of MPs has issued a stark warning: the UK is falling short of the skills needed to meet its ambitious net zero targets. With a shortfall of 250,000 workers required for new housing and retrofit projects, the government is being urged to step up its game.

Committee’s recommendations included the call for a nationally recognised, industry-backed construction and retrofit skills program. We’ll also explore how this skills gap could impact the UK’s clean energy goals and the potential for creating high-quality jobs in every community.

London Could Halve Cost of New Transport Projects

London’s transport infrastructure is notoriously expensive, but a new report suggests that adopting European planning and financing models could cut costs by up to 50%. From the Elizabeth Line to the paused Crossrail 2 project, we take a look at how London can learn from Madrid’s "low-cost and speedy approach" to metro extensions.

Bios

Ryan Jones - SLG Agency

For almost 20 years, Ryan’s focus has been on helping brands in the construction and manufacturing sectors tell their story.

His career began in PR, working for global businesses across a variety of sectors, before opting to focus on construction and the built environment.

In his role as Managing Director, Ryan works to ensure that SLG Agency continues to be one of the construction industry's leading specialist strategic and creative agencies, having seen its work recognised by the likes of Campaign, Marketing Week and The Drum in recent years.

Ryan is regularly asked to speak at trade shows and events, and to contribute thought leadership pieces to trade media. He is also a member of several industry advisory boards, including Constructing Excellence and the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce.

His passion for the construction sector has seen him work with clients on CSR campaigns that tackle the sector’s public perception, culminating in him recently launching a not-for-profit called Deconstruction.

Peter Sumpton - buildDifferent

Peter is a construction–marketing strategist and co-host of Construction Disrupted. With two decades’ experience spanning manufacturers, contractors and agencies, he helps organisations swap scattergun activity for clear strategy, joined-up planning and measurable outcomes.

His approach is practical and plain-spoken: cut the noise, focus on what moves the numbers, and build repeatable systems that teams can actually use.

Having seen first-hand how unfocused tactics waste time and budget, Peter works with leaders to align commercial goals, customer insight and content so marketing supports delivery rather than distracting from it.

Peter's passion lies in diagnosing organisations' marketing functions' capabilities and existing market, assembling what’s required to create a functional strategy, fit for purpose and scalable.

Marketing should create value, not just cost, and Peter’s work is about making that the norm.

From groundbreaking safety achievements to transformative urban projects and workforce challenges, here are the top three headlines this week:

BSR Sees Record Gateway 2 Determinations to November 2025

The Building Safety Regulator (BSR) has achieved record-breaking progress in processing Gateway 2 applications for high-rise residential buildings. By November 24, 2025, a total of 272 decisions were made, with 578 decisions made since August.

London accounted for 76% of October's decisions, highlighting the city's focus on safety improvements. Operational changes, including a batching process and the establishment of an Innovation Unit, have accelerated application assessments and closures. The regulator aims to clear historic cases by the end of December while maintaining safety standards.

Council Clears Way for £10bn Earls Court District

The Earls Court Development Company has received approval for a £10 billion redevelopment project in London. The plan will transform a 44-acre site into a 4,000-home innovation district, featuring cultural venues, parks, and workspace for climate-innovation firms.

The project promises to inject £3 billion annually into the UK economy and create 23,500 jobs. Phase one, including 1,300 homes and public spaces, is set to begin next year, with full completion targeted for 2041. This milestone marks a significant step in revitalising one of London's largest cleared development sites.

Construction Employment Hits Lowest Proportion in 100 Years

A report by the Centre for Social Justice reveals that construction employment in the UK has reached its lowest proportion of the workforce in over a century. Latest government figures show the construction workforce fell 1.3% in the third quarter to 2.05 million, marking a 15% collapse in capacity.

This decline poses a significant threat to the government's target of building 1.5 million homes. The shortage of workers highlights the urgent need for strategies to attract and retain talent in the construction sector to meet housing demands and sustain industry growth.

(CSJ - Skills to Build)

Bios

Ryan Jones - SLG Agency

For almost 20 years, Ryan’s focus has been on helping brands in the construction and manufacturing sectors tell their story.

His career began in PR, working for global businesses across a variety of sectors, before opting to focus on construction and the built environment.

In his role as Managing Director, Ryan works to ensure that SLG Agency continues to be one of the construction industry's leading specialist strategic and creative agencies, having seen its work recognised by the likes of Campaign, Marketing Week and The Drum in recent years.

Ryan is regularly asked to speak at trade shows and events, and to contribute thought leadership pieces to trade media. He is also a member of several industry advisory boards, including Constructing Excellence and the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce.

His passion for the construction sector has seen him work with clients on CSR campaigns that tackle the sector’s public perception, culminating in him recently launching a not-for-profit called Deconstruction.

Peter Sumpton - buildDifferent

Peter is a construction–marketing strategist and co-host of Construction Disrupted. With two decades’ experience spanning manufacturers, contractors and agencies, he helps organisations swap scattergun activity for clear strategy, joined-up planning and measurable outcomes.

His approach is practical and plain-spoken: cut the noise, focus on what moves the numbers, and build repeatable systems that teams can actually use.

Having seen first-hand how unfocused tactics waste time and budget, Peter works with leaders to align commercial goals, customer insight and content so marketing supports delivery rather than distracting from it.

Peter's passion lies in diagnosing organisations' marketing functions' capabilities and existing market, assembling what’s required to create a functional strategy, fit for purpose and scalable.

Marketing should create value, not just cost, and Peter’s work is about making that the norm.

From government initiatives to boost housing and infrastructure, to the challenges of balancing fiscal policies and keeping consumer confidence, if you were in charge of the red box! Let's go.

Reeves Set to Hire Hundreds More Planners

Chancellor Rachel Reeves is set to announce this initiative, which aims to "get Britain building" by increasing the number of graduate planners and launching a Planning Careers Hub. The goal? To support retention and open new routes into the profession, ultimately helping the government meet its target of building 1.5 million homes and making 150 planning decisions on major infrastructure projects.

Consumer confidence drops ahead of budget

November brought a slight dip in consumer confidence, just in time for the holiday shopping season. All five measures of confidence took a tumble, with the major purchase index dropping three points—making big-ticket items about as tempting as leftover fruitcake. Sentiment about the economy and personal finances also slipped, both in terms of looking back and looking ahead. Marketers are now holding their breath, hoping the upcoming budget will inject some much-needed optimism into shoppers’ spirits. Will the budget bring a festive rebound or just more socks for Christmas?

Could You Do Better Than Reeves as Chancellor?

With a £12 billion shortfall to address, Reeves must balance raising funds for public services, keeping taxes acceptable to voters, and maintaining market confidence. We'll discuss the options on the table, from tax increases to spending cuts, and explore the complexities of fiscal policy.

Plus, we talk about the Guardian's interactive budget game that lets you try your hand at crafting a successful budget. Can we keep the markets calm and your MPs happy?

Bios

Ryan Jones - SLG Agency

For almost 20 years, Ryan’s focus has been on helping brands in the construction and manufacturing sectors tell their story.

His career began in PR, working for global businesses across a variety of sectors, before opting to focus on construction and the built environment.

In his role as Managing Director, Ryan works to ensure that SLG Agency continues to be one of the construction industry's leading specialist strategic and creative agencies, having seen its work recognised by the likes of Campaign, Marketing Week and The Drum in recent years.

Ryan is regularly asked to speak at trade shows and events, and to contribute thought leadership pieces to trade media. He is also a member of several industry advisory boards, including Constructing Excellence and the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce.

His passion for the construction sector has seen him work with clients on CSR campaigns that tackle the sector’s public perception, culminating in him recently launching a not-for-profit called Deconstruction.

Peter Sumpton - buildDifferent

Peter is a construction–marketing strategist and co-host of Construction Disrupted. With two decades’ experience spanning manufacturers, contractors and agencies, he helps organisations swap scattergun activity for clear strategy, joined-up planning and measurable outcomes.

His approach is practical and plain-spoken: cut the noise, focus on what moves the numbers, and build repeatable systems that teams can actually use.

Having seen first-hand how unfocused tactics waste time and budget, Peter works with leaders to align commercial goals, customer insight and content so marketing supports delivery rather than distracting from it.

Peter's passion lies in diagnosing organisations' marketing functions' capabilities and existing market, assembling what’s required to create a functional strategy, fit for purpose and scalable.

Marketing should create value, not just cost, and Peter’s work is about making that the norm.

From Hollywood glamour in Manchester to AI’s untapped potential, and the challenges facing colleges, we’ve got this week covered. Let’s get started!

AI potential “being wasted” in construction

AI could revolutionise construction, but the industry is falling behind. A survey shows 81% of professionals lack advanced AI knowledge, and only 20% of firms are ready to automate processes. Without proper training and policies, companies risk wasting investments and facing cybersecurity threats. The solution? AI literacy training, formal strategies, and tailored tools to unlock productivity and innovation.

Colleges halt construction enrolments as demand hits the roof

UK colleges are overwhelmed by record demand for construction and engineering courses, driven by demographic growth and government plans to train 60,000 new tradespeople. Teacher shortages and limited space have forced over half of colleges to create waiting lists. With 1.5 million new homes planned by 2029, urgent funding is needed to meet the demand and prepare the workforce of tomorrow.

Robert De Niro’s waiting, for BSR approval

Hollywood icon Robert De Niro is behind the £360 million Nobu Manchester skyscraper, set to be the tallest residential tower outside London. But construction is stalled as the project awaits Building Safety Regulator approval. With plans to build atop the historic Castlefield railway viaduct, this ambitious project blends luxury with heritage. Will the team break ground next year?

Bios

Ryan Jones - SLG Agency

For almost 20 years, Ryan’s focus has been on helping brands in the construction and manufacturing sectors tell their story.

His career began in PR, working for global businesses across a variety of sectors, before opting to focus on construction and the built environment.

In his role as Managing Director, Ryan works to ensure that SLG Agency continues to be one of the construction industry's leading specialist strategic and creative agencies, having seen its work recognised by the likes of Campaign, Marketing Week and The Drum in recent years.

Ryan is regularly asked to speak at trade shows and events, and to contribute thought leadership pieces to trade media. He is also a member of several industry advisory boards, including Constructing Excellence and the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce.

His passion for the construction sector has seen him work with clients on CSR campaigns that tackle the sector’s public perception, culminating in him recently launching a not-for-profit called Deconstruction.

Peter Sumpton - buildDifferent

Peter is a construction–marketing strategist and co-host of Construction Disrupted. With two decades’ experience spanning manufacturers, contractors and agencies, he helps organisations swap scattergun activity for clear strategy, joined-up planning and measurable outcomes.

His approach is practical and plain-spoken: cut the noise, focus on what moves the numbers, and build repeatable systems that teams can actually use.

Having seen first-hand how unfocused tactics waste time and budget, Peter works with leaders to align commercial goals, customer insight and content so marketing supports delivery rather than distracting from it.

Peter's passion lies in diagnosing organisations' marketing functions' capabilities and existing market, assembling what’s required to create a functional strategy, fit for purpose and scalable.

Marketing should create value, not just cost, and Peter’s work is about making that the norm.

In this episode, we dive into the latest developments shaping the UK’s construction and housing sectors. From cutting-edge AI investments to ambitious housing programmes and major infrastructure updates, we’ve got all the insights you need. Join us as we explore the stories making headlines and their impact on the industry.

Balfour Beatty Unveils £7.2m AI Investment with Microsoft

Balfour Beatty is revolutionising the construction industry with a £7.2 million investment in Microsoft 365 Copilot. This four-year partnership integrates AI into their operations, boosting productivity and safety across projects. A trial on the A9 dualling project in Scotland showcases how AI is automating processes like reviewing Inspection and Test Plans, freeing up engineers for high-value tasks. This move aligns with their “Build to Last” strategy, setting a new standard for innovation in construction.

The Social and Affordable Homes Programme Prospectuses: What You Need to Know

The UK government’s Social and Affordable Homes Programme (SAHP) for 2026-2036 is set to deliver 300,000 affordable homes, with 60% allocated for social rent. Backed by £2.5 billion in low-interest loans, the programme focuses on estate regeneration, supported housing, and rural development. With bidding opening in February 2026, this initiative aims to tackle the housing crisis and provide safe, affordable homes for communities across the UK.

£2.7bn Sunk on Scrapped Transport Projects

A National Audit Office report has revealed that £2.7 billion has been written off due to cancelled transport projects in the UK. High-profile cancellations include HS2 Phase 2 and the Stonehenge tunnel, reflecting shifting government priorities and affordability concerns. The Department for Transport is now focusing on maintaining existing infrastructure, raising questions about the future of transport planning and investment.

Bios

Ryan Jones - SLG Agency

For almost 20 years, Ryan’s focus has been on helping brands in the construction and manufacturing sectors tell their story.

His career began in PR, working for global businesses across a variety of sectors, before opting to focus on construction and the built environment.

In his role as Managing Director, Ryan works to ensure that SLG Agency continues to be one of the construction industry's leading specialist strategic and creative agencies, having seen its work recognised by the likes of Campaign, Marketing Week and The Drum in recent years.

Ryan is regularly asked to speak at trade shows and events, and to contribute thought leadership pieces to trade media. He is also a member of several industry advisory boards, including Constructing Excellence and the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce.

His passion for the construction sector has seen him work with clients on CSR campaigns that tackle the sector’s public perception, culminating in him recently launching a not-for-profit called Deconstruction.

Peter Sumpton - buildDifferent

Peter is a construction–marketing strategist and co-host of Construction Disrupted. With two decades’ experience spanning manufacturers, contractors and agencies, he helps organisations swap scattergun activity for clear strategy, joined-up planning and measurable outcomes.

His approach is practical and plain-spoken: cut the noise, focus on what moves the numbers, and build repeatable systems that teams can actually use.

Having seen first-hand how unfocused tactics waste time and budget, Peter works with leaders to align commercial goals, customer insight and content so marketing supports delivery rather than distracting from it.

Peter's passion lies in diagnosing organisations' marketing functions' capabilities and existing market, assembling what’s required to create a functional strategy, fit for purpose and scalable.

Marketing should create value, not just cost, and Peter’s work is about making that the norm.

In this episode, we dive into three major developments shaping the future of the UK’s economy and industries. From addressing the £400 billion AI skills gap to rebuilding Britain’s infrastructure and analysing industrial advertising trends, we explore how these initiatives are driving growth, innovation, and sustainability. Join us as we uncover the challenges, opportunities, and transformative strategies that are setting the stage for the UK’s future.

Help for UK businesses to fill £400bn AI skills gap

• A new report by Skills England highlights a significant AI skills gap in the UK workforce, which could hinder businesses from unlocking up to £400 billion in economic growth by 2030.
• Three innovative tools have been launched to address this gap:

1. AI Skills Framework: Identifies technical, responsible, and non-technical skills required for various job roles.
2. AI Skills Adoption Pathway Model: Guides organisations through stages of AI adoption, from awareness to scaling.
3. Employer AI Adoption Checklist: Helps businesses assess their AI readiness and identify workforce gaps.

Rebuilding Britain

• The UK Government’s ambitious 10-Year Infrastructure Strategy aims to deliver resilient, decarbonised, and digitally enabled infrastructure to drive economic growth and sustainability.
• Key recommendations include:

1. Accelerating Project Delivery: Appointing a dedicated infrastructure minister, streamlining planning processes, and incentivising high-quality design.
2. AI-First Infrastructure Delivery: Leveraging AI for cost optimisation, faster project delivery, and real-time asset management.
3. Unlocking Private Investment: Reimagining public-private partnerships and enhancing government capabilities to attract private sector investment.

WARC Expenditure Review

• The AA/WARC Expenditure Report reveals that industrial advertising was the only category to register growth in display spend in Q2 2025, up 1.8%.
• Total UK adspend rose by 9.1% in Q2 2025, driven by online formats like search and online display, which accounted for 83.3% of overall adspend.
• VOD (Video on Demand) emerged as the fastest-growing medium, combining TV’s effectiveness with digital’s targeted delivery and measurable outcomes.

Bios

Ryan Jones - SLG Agency

For almost 20 years, Ryan’s focus has been on helping brands in the construction and manufacturing sectors tell their story.

His career began in PR, working for global businesses across a variety of sectors, before opting to focus on construction and the built environment.

In his role as Managing Director, Ryan works to ensure that SLG Agency continues to be one of the construction industry's leading specialist strategic and creative agencies, having seen its work recognised by the likes of Campaign, Marketing Week and The Drum in recent years.

Ryan is regularly asked to speak at trade shows and events, and to contribute thought leadership pieces to trade media. He is also a member of several industry advisory boards, including Constructing Excellence and the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce.

His passion for the construction sector has seen him work with clients on CSR campaigns that tackle the sector’s public perception, culminating in him recently launching a not-for-profit called Deconstruction.

Peter Sumpton - buildDifferent

Peter is a construction–marketing strategist and co-host of Construction Disrupted. With two decades’ experience spanning manufacturers, contractors and agencies, he helps organisations swap scattergun activity for clear strategy, joined-up planning and measurable outcomes.

His approach is practical and plain-spoken: cut the noise, focus on what moves the numbers, and build repeatable systems that teams can actually use.

Having seen first-hand how unfocused tactics waste time and budget, Peter works with leaders to align commercial goals, customer insight and content so marketing supports delivery rather than distracting from it.

Peter's passion lies in diagnosing organisations' marketing functions' capabilities and existing market, assembling what’s required to create a functional strategy, fit for purpose and scalable.

Marketing should create value, not just cost, and Peter’s work is about making that the norm.

In this episode, we dive into the groundbreaking report by Barbour ABI, created in partnership with Futurebuild and the C&BE Network, which makes a compelling case for increased marketing investment in the built environment. The discussion highlights the critical role of skilled human capital, the strategic integration of AI, and the need to reshape the construction industry's image. Join us as we explore the challenges, opportunities, and actionable insights that can redefine marketing in this vital sector.

What the report covers and we dig into:

The Value of Skilled People in Marketing:

• Why human expertise remains the cornerstone of effective marketing in the built environment.
• Survey findings show that leaders prioritise hiring and training over technology investments.

The Role of AI in the Industry:

• 94% of industry leaders believe AI will significantly impact the built environment within five years.
• There is a concerning gap between AI awareness and strategic implementation, with 52% of firms lacking plans to integrate AI.

Fixing the Construction Industry’s Brand:

• The construction sector struggles with its image and how marketing can lead the charge in reshaping perceptions.
• Shifting the narrative from challenges to successes, innovation, and rewarding careers.

Barriers to Marketing Success:

• Why marketing is still seen as a cost by many businesses and how this mindset limits growth.
• The dominance of networking and relationships in winning work, and why this approach needs to evolve.

The Case for Long-Term Brand Investment:

• The importance of balancing short-term sales activation with long-term brand building.
• Shocking statistics show that over 70% of firms spend less than 20% of their marketing budget on brand development.

Leadership and Industry Culture:

• Leadership advocacy is the strongest predictor of marketing investment.
• The need for marketers to educate and influence leadership to prioritise strategic marketing.

1. Opportunities for the Future:

• Social values, education, and community building in attracting young talent to the industry.
• AI can lighten workloads and enhance efficiency, but only when used strategically.

Key Takeaways:

• Marketing in the built environment is at a crossroads, with significant opportunities to redefine the industry’s image and attract new talent.
• Skilled marketers, supported by leadership and equipped with the right tools, can drive this transformation.
• The integration of AI and a focus on long-term brand building are essential to staying competitive in a rapidly evolving landscape.

Link to the report: The Case for Marketing in the Built Environment

Other Links:

Long and Short of It

Tracksuit - Continuous Brand Tracking

Bios

Ryan Jones - SLG Agency

For almost 20 years, Ryan’s focus has been on helping brands in the construction and manufacturing sectors tell their story.

His career began in PR, working for global businesses across a variety of sectors, before opting to focus on construction and the built environment.

In his role as Managing Director, Ryan works to ensure that SLG Agency continues to be one of the construction industry's leading specialist strategic and creative agencies, having seen its work recognised by the likes of Campaign, Marketing Week and The Drum in recent years.

Ryan is regularly asked to speak at trade shows and events, and to contribute thought leadership pieces to trade media. He is also a member of several industry advisory boards, including Constructing Excellence and the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce.

His passion for the construction sector has seen him work with clients on CSR campaigns that tackle the sector’s public perception, culminating in him recently launching a not-for-profit called Deconstruction.

Peter Sumpton - buildDifferent

Peter is a construction–marketing strategist and co-host of Construction Disrupted. With two decades’ experience spanning manufacturers, contractors and agencies, he helps organisations swap scattergun activity for clear strategy, joined-up planning and measurable outcomes.

His approach is practical and plain-spoken: cut the noise, focus on what moves the numbers, and build repeatable systems that teams can actually use.

Having seen first-hand how unfocused tactics waste time and budget, Peter works with leaders to align commercial goals, customer insight and content so marketing supports delivery rather than distracting from it.

Peter's passion lies in diagnosing organisations' marketing functions' capabilities and existing market, assembling what’s required to create a functional strategy, fit for purpose and scalable.

Marketing should create value, not just cost, and Peter’s work is about making that the norm.

In this episode, we’ve explored the challenges and opportunities shaping the construction sector, from policy delays and workforce development to the adoption of cutting-edge technology.

‘Emergency’ Planning Package to Boost London’s Housebuilding Delayed

The much-anticipated government planning package aimed at revitalising London’s struggling housebuilding market has been delayed until at least the end of October. This initiative, which includes measures such as reducing affordable housing requirements from 35% to 20% on private sites, was expected to address the ongoing housing crisis. However, political disagreements between the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) and the Greater London Authority have stalled its release.

The delay comes amidst rising construction costs, economic pressures, and challenges posed by the Building Safety Regulator. With housing starts and permissions in decline, the Home Builders Federation has warned that the government’s housing targets are unachievable without immediate intervention. This segment explores the implications of the delay and the potential impact on London’s housing pipeline.

Plan to Train 12,000 Construction Workers Unveiled

In response to a critical labour shortage, West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker has announced a £75 million initiative to train over 12,000 construction workers over the next three years. This ambitious program aims to equip workers with skills in bricklaying, engineering, design, plastering, and painting, ensuring the region is prepared for an anticipated construction boom.

Research by the Construction Industry Training Board highlights the need for 4,000 new workers annually to meet the demand for over 12,000 new homes and a £160 million retrofit scheme. Mayor Parker emphasised the importance of investing in local talent to sustain growth and create opportunities. This segment delves into how this initiative could shape the future of construction in the West Midlands.

“Widening Gap” Between Adopters and Non-Adopters of Construction AI

A recent survey of over 1,000 construction leaders reveals a growing divide between organisations that embrace AI and those that do not. While 75% of decision-makers believe AI will play a critical role in construction over the next five years, only 25% are actively using it to manage risks, and 20% have not adopted it at all.

Key barriers to adoption include a lack of expertise and resistance to change, with non-adopters citing uncertainty as a major deterrent. In contrast, organisations that have integrated AI report greater confidence in achieving project goals and managing uncertainty. This segment examines the transformative potential of AI in construction and the risks of falling behind in a rapidly evolving industry.

Bios

Ryan Jones - SLG Agency

For almost 20 years, Ryan’s focus has been on helping brands in the construction and manufacturing sectors tell their story.

His career began in PR, working for global businesses across a variety of sectors, before opting to focus on construction and the built environment.

In his role as Managing Director, Ryan works to ensure that SLG Agency continues to be one of the construction industry's leading specialist strategic and creative agencies, having seen its work recognised by the likes of Campaign, Marketing Week and The Drum in recent years.

Ryan is regularly asked to speak at trade shows and events, and to contribute thought leadership pieces to trade media. He is also a member of several industry advisory boards, including Constructing Excellence and the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce.

His passion for the construction sector has seen him work with clients on CSR campaigns that tackle the sector’s public perception, culminating in him recently launching a not-for-profit called Deconstruction.

Peter Sumpton - buildDifferent

Peter is a construction–marketing strategist and co-host of Construction Disrupted. With two decades’ experience spanning manufacturers, contractors and agencies, he helps organisations swap scattergun activity for clear strategy, joined-up planning and measurable outcomes.

His approach is practical and plain-spoken: cut the noise, focus on what moves the numbers, and build repeatable systems that teams can actually use.

Having seen first-hand how unfocused tactics waste time and budget, Peter works with leaders to align commercial goals, customer insight and content so marketing supports delivery rather than distracting from it.

Peter's passion lies in diagnosing organisations' marketing functions' capabilities and existing market, assembling what’s required to create a functional strategy, fit for purpose and scalable.

Marketing should create value, not just cost, and Peter’s work is about making that the norm.

Administrations hit ‘worrying milestone’ as year-to-date total passes 200

Financial instability in the construction sector.

• Over 200 business administrations in 2025, with September equaling February’s peak of 32.
• A third more failures in September compared to August, signalling economic pressures.
• Rising costs, supply chain issues, and economic uncertainty contribute to industry vulnerability.
• Businesses need to adapt and strengthen financial strategies to survive.

Now is not the time to panic about low planning approvals

The government’s ambitious housing target and challenges in planning approvals.

• Secretary of State Steve Reed reaffirmed the goal to build 1.5 million homes this parliamentary term.
• The slogan “Build, Baby, Build” reflects growing political consensus on housing needs.
• Low planning approval rates pose a significant challenge to achieving the target.
• Policymakers are urged to maintain confidence and stick to long-term plans despite discouraging statistics.

Designing for circularity: championing materials re-use at 30 Duke Street St James’s

The building exemplifies sustainable design and circular economy principles.

• Over 78% of the structural steel frame is reclaimed, saving 744 tonnes of CO₂ emissions.
• Reclaimed materials like Portland stone, granite panels, and marble interiors were creatively reused, adding historical and aesthetic value.
• Innovative reuse projects include artworks by Studio Tip and Matthew Small.
• The building targets top sustainability certifications: BREEAM ‘Outstanding’, WELL Platinum, and NABERS UK 5-Star.
• Future-proof design with bolted connections allows for easy disassembly and reuse of materials.
• Flexible office spaces with column-free floorplates offer unobstructed views of London landmarks.

Bios

Ryan Jones - SLG Agency

For almost 20 years, Ryan’s focus has been on helping brands in the construction and manufacturing sectors tell their story.

His career began in PR, working for global businesses across a variety of sectors, before opting to focus on construction and the built environment.

In his role as Managing Director, Ryan works to ensure that SLG Agency continues to be one of the construction industry's leading specialist strategic and creative agencies, having seen its work recognised by the likes of Campaign, Marketing Week and The Drum in recent years.

Ryan is regularly asked to speak at trade shows and events, and to contribute thought leadership pieces to trade media. He is also a member of several industry advisory boards, including Constructing Excellence and the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce.

His passion for the construction sector has seen him work with clients on CSR campaigns that tackle the sector’s public perception, culminating in him recently launching a not-for-profit called Deconstruction.

Peter Sumpton - buildDifferent

Peter is a construction–marketing strategist and co-host of Construction Disrupted. With two decades’ experience spanning manufacturers, contractors and agencies, he helps organisations swap scattergun activity for clear strategy, joined-up planning and measurable outcomes.

His approach is practical and plain-spoken: cut the noise, focus on what moves the numbers, and build repeatable systems that teams can actually use.

Having seen first-hand how unfocused tactics waste time and budget, Peter works with leaders to align commercial goals, customer insight and content so marketing supports delivery rather than distracting from it.

Peter's passion lies in diagnosing organisations' marketing functions' capabilities and existing market, assembling what’s required to create a functional strategy, fit for purpose and scalable.

Marketing should create value, not just cost, and Peter’s work is about making that the norm.

Project uncertainty has wiped £2tn from global construction activity this year, according to Currie & Brown report

Global Financial Losses in Construction:

Project uncertainty has led to a £2 trillion loss in global construction activity in 2025, equivalent to 13.7% of the surveyed companies' pipelines.

The financial losses per company averaged £1.6 billion, which could fund up to 40 schools or build up to 500 new airports.

Causes of Uncertainty:

Material price inflation, planning delays, and skills shortages are identified as key contributors to the uncertainty.

Systemic issues such as outdated procurement processes, misaligned objectives, and a culture of accepting billion-dollar projects without complete designs exacerbate risks.

Country Rankings for Project Confidence:

The UK scored 55 out of 100 for project delivery confidence, ranking higher than France (49) and Japan (51) but lower than the US (59) and China/India (61).

Recommendations for Improvement:

Cutting regulatory barriers to accelerate planning processes.

Enhancing pipeline visibility for public projects.

Increasing the use of repeatable designs.

Encouraging the adoption of AI in operations, which has been linked to higher project delivery confidence.

Call for Systemic Change:

Alan Manuel, CEO of Currie & Brown, emphasised the need to dismantle outdated systems and adopt new methods to address volatility and systemic issues in the construction industry.

Digital ID Scheme Could Transform Construction

Introduction of Digital ID System:

The UK government plans to implement a mandatory digital ID system for all citizens and legal residents to verify their right to work.

The system will function similarly to an NHS app or contactless bank card and aims to reduce illegal working and streamline hiring processes.

Potential Benefits:

Faster onboarding of workers and reduced administrative burdens for recruitment agencies and contractors.

Reduction in fraudulent documents and improved compliance across the construction industry.

Enhanced integration with existing systems like the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) digital skills passport.

Challenges and Concerns:

Implementation details are critical, with concerns about alienating older workers who may not have smartphones.

Risk of adding complexity if the system does not integrate seamlessly with current industry processes.

Skepticism about the system’s ability to completely eliminate illegal working.

Industry Feedback:

Industry figures suggest the system could be a "game-changer" but emphasize the need for careful planning and integration.

Suggestions include linking the digital ID system with existing tools like CSCS cards to avoid redundancy and ensure ease of use.

Building the Future Conference 2025

Building Safety and Competency:

Building safety and competency were central themes, with discussions on delays at gateway 2 approvals and the need for regulatory improvements.

Andy Roe, chair of the Building Safety Regulator, emphasised the importance of the new building safety regime but acknowledged challenges in its implementation.

Calls for simpler and more accessible guidance for SMEs and a unified accreditation system for industry competency.

Product Safety and Traceability:

Discussions on aligning UK product safety regulations with EU standards while ensuring stricter safety measures.

Emphasis on the need for revolutionary changes in product safety and traceability, including stronger incentives for manufacturers and better education for specifiers.

Housing Delivery Challenges:

The government’s target of 1.5 million homes was discussed, with challenges such as environmental pressures, policy uncertainty, and labour shortages highlighted.

Housing associations face difficulties due to poor management arrangements by housebuilders and regulatory barriers.

Suggestions included treating housing as critical national infrastructure and improving collaboration between housebuilders and housing associations.

Skills Shortages and Workforce Development:

Concerns over the shortage of skilled workers, particularly in trades and professions like roofing, planning, and surveying.

Emphasis on attracting and retaining young professionals through inspiring work, clear career progression, and mental health support.

Regulatory and Retrofit Challenges:

Discussions on navigating regulatory uncertainty and retrofitting the UK’s housing stock amidst growing political opposition to net-zero targets.

Calls for prioritising fabric-first approaches to retrofitting and addressing the economic inefficiencies of alternative methods.

Future Funding and Data Centres:

Debate on the need for public finance initiatives to rebuild Britain’s infrastructure.

Exploration of the potential growth in data centre development despite challenges like high energy costs and planning barriers.

Bios

Ryan Jones - SLG Agency

For almost 20 years, Ryan’s focus has been on helping brands in the construction and manufacturing sectors tell their story.

His career began in PR, working for global businesses across a variety of sectors, before opting to focus on construction and the built environment.

In his role as Managing Director, Ryan works to ensure that SLG Agency continues to be one of the construction industry's leading specialist strategic and creative agencies, having seen its work recognised by the likes of Campaign, Marketing Week and The Drum in recent years.

Ryan is regularly asked to speak at trade shows and events, and to contribute thought leadership pieces to trade media. He is also a member of several industry advisory boards, including Constructing Excellence and the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce.

His passion for the construction sector has seen him work with clients on CSR campaigns that tackle the sector’s public perception, culminating in him recently launching a not-for-profit called Deconstruction.

Peter Sumpton - buildDifferent

Peter is a construction–marketing strategist and co-host of Construction Disrupted. With two decades’ experience spanning manufacturers, contractors and agencies, he helps organisations swap scattergun activity for clear strategy, joined-up planning and measurable outcomes.

His approach is practical and plain-spoken: cut the noise, focus on what moves the numbers, and build repeatable systems that teams can actually use.

Having seen first-hand how unfocused tactics waste time and budget, Peter works with leaders to align commercial goals, customer insight and content so marketing supports delivery rather than distracting from it.

Peter's passion lies in diagnosing organisations' marketing functions' capabilities and existing market, assembling what’s required to create a functional strategy, fit for purpose and scalable.

Marketing should create value, not just cost, and Peter’s work is about making that the norm.

Three New Town Schemes to Begin This Parliament, Promises Housing Secretary

Announcement Details:

• The UK government has pledged to initiate three new town schemes during the current parliamentary term.
• Locations include Bedfordshire, North London, and Leeds, with a taskforce identifying 12 potential sites for development.

Sector Reactions:

• Industry leaders have welcomed the announcement but raised concerns about the viability of the projects due to rising construction costs.
• Calls have been made for Homes England to step in and "de-risk" sites, particularly those with a 40% affordable housing requirement.

Challenges:

• Persistent construction cost hikes and infrastructure challenges are key obstacles.
• Ensuring affordability and sustainability in the new towns is a priority for stakeholders.

Northern Powerhouse Rail Reportedly Pushed Back Again as Government Insists Line Will Go Ahead

Project Delays:

• The Northern Powerhouse Rail project, connecting Liverpool and Manchester, faces fresh delays due to another review of its costs and value for money.
• The government has not provided updates in recent spending reviews or infrastructure pipelines.

Funding and Timeline:

• The Department for Transport proposed £1.5 billion in early funding to start work by 2030, but the Treasury is cautious due to concerns over cost overruns similar to HS2.

Political and Economic Implications:

• Northern mayors view the rail line as essential for economic growth and resolving transport constraints in the North West.
• The project is strongly supported by political figures like Andy Burnham and Lucy Powell, but criticised by Reform UK, which advocates scrapping the line.

“Bottoming-Out” Ceremony Sees Historic Church on Stilts

Engineering Feat:

• At the Fifty Fenchurch Street development in London, a 700-year-old church tower (All Hallows Staining Church) has been preserved on 45-foot tall stilts.
• This innovative engineering solution allows the church to remain suspended above a 60,000 sq ft excavation site.

Construction Milestone:

• The ceremony marked the completion of excavation work, involving the removal of over 125,000 tonnes of earth.
• The site will host a 36-story flagship development blending modern workspace with historical features.

Collaborative Efforts:

• Key players include AXA IM Alts (developer), YardNine (delivery partner), Arup (engineering consultant), and Multiplex Construction Europe (main contractor).
• The project is celebrated for its unique integration of historical preservation and state-of-the-art construction

Additional Link:

Entire church begins two-day journey across Swedish city

Bios

Ryan Jones - SLG Agency

For almost 20 years, Ryan’s focus has been on helping brands in the construction and manufacturing sectors tell their story.

His career began in PR, working for global businesses across a variety of sectors, before opting to focus on construction and the built environment.

In his role as Managing Director, Ryan works to ensure that SLG Agency continues to be one of the construction industry's leading specialist strategic and creative agencies, having seen its work recognised by the likes of Campaign, Marketing Week and The Drum in recent years.

Ryan is regularly asked to speak at trade shows and events, and to contribute thought leadership pieces to trade media. He is also a member of several industry advisory boards, including Constructing Excellence and the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce.

His passion for the construction sector has seen him work with clients on CSR campaigns that tackle the sector’s public perception, culminating in him recently launching a not-for-profit called Deconstruction.

Peter Sumpton - buildDifferent

Peter is a construction–marketing strategist and co-host of Construction Disrupted. With two decades’ experience spanning manufacturers, contractors and agencies, he helps organisations swap scattergun activity for clear strategy, joined-up planning and measurable outcomes.

His approach is practical and plain-spoken: cut the noise, focus on what moves the numbers, and build repeatable systems that teams can actually use.

Having seen first-hand how unfocused tactics waste time and budget, Peter works with leaders to align commercial goals, customer insight and content so marketing supports delivery rather than distracting from it.

Peter's passion lies in diagnosing organisations' marketing functions' capabilities and existing market, assembling what’s required to create a functional strategy, fit for purpose and scalable.

Marketing should create value, not just cost, and Peter’s work is about making that the norm.

In this episode, we’re exploring why weather is moving from “bad luck” to board-level priority, how climate insight can reshape everything from contracts to profit margins, and what it takes for contractors, insurers, and clients to manage the weather rather than work on a day-to-day basis that brings nothing but unpredictability with someone who knows his nimbostratus from his cumulonimbus.

Our guest today is Josh Graham, CEO at EHAB (WeatherWise). Josh leads a platform built specifically for construction to quantify and manage weather risk with science, not guesswork. 

EHAB’s WeatherWise suite maps portfolio exposure, “digitally rehearses” programmes against likely weather windows, and alerts teams to risks before they bite, saving days of manual analysis and giving planners defensible allowances, plugging into construction planning and risk tools to provide granular, project-level insight

Josh is an active voice on weather risk, writing regularly about how data and new insurance models can reduce delays and protect margins as extreme events intensify.

Here's our chat in list form

- How did WeatherWise come to be?

- Why not just check with the Met Office?

- Why weather risk is treated as ‘inevitable’, rather than actively managed.

- How climate intelligence transforms a business model as well as project delivery.

- Building trust in accuracy and forecasting.

- Weather prediction myths that are tough to shift.

Links

Get Adobe Express for FREE: https://www.adobe.com/uk/express/

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/builddifferent

Digital procurement is accelerating that shift. The best teams are connecting estimating, tendering and contract execution into a single workflow; capturing supplier performance data; tightening change control; and surfacing risks early enough to act. Done well, it lifts margins, shortens cycles and strengthens relationships with subcontractors, while giving leadership defensible, real-time visibility of where value is being created or lost. Let’s chat to someone who is looking to save 1 billion construction admin hours through procurement tech.

Alastair Blenkin is the Founder and CEO of ProcurePro, a construction-tech company transforming procurement for main contractors. Beginning his career as a lawyer on major developments for institutional asset owners, Alastair gained expertise in high-volume contracting, commercial strategy, and risk management.

Frustrated by the inefficiencies he encountered, he transitioned into tech to drive meaningful change. Since founding ProcurePro, Alastair has led the company in creating an all-in-one, integrated platform that has powered over 3,500 projects worth more than £38 billion, helping contractors procure 50% faster while saving over hundreds of years of admin time. Alastair’s mission is clear - to save 1 billion construction admin hours and enable the industry to deliver the social infrastructure that supports our lives.

Here's our chat in list form

- What does value in procurement mean?

- Silo’d behaviours of commercial teams in procurement and driving change

- Price volatility and labour shortages and the impact on procurement

- A lowest-bidder-wins culture, carbon and sustainability. How supply chain transparency can facilitate solving these issues.

- AI in procurement: co-pilot or auto-pilot?

Links

Get Adobe Express for FREE: https://www.adobe.com/uk/express/

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/builddifferent

This is the final episode recorded live at Digital Construction Week 2025.

A quick-fire Q&A session that captures the honest, unscripted, and occasionally outstanding responses of industry professionals as they tackle some big questions about the future of digital construction.

From AI and robotics to the reality of adoption and the importance of collaboration, these short, insightful pieces highlight what’s top of mind for those building, designing, leading and digitising the built environment.

Here are the seven Quick-Fire questions asked of a whole host of delegates attending Digital Construction Week:

1 - What do you see as the most exciting development in digital construction right now?

2 - What barriers still stand in the way of wider digital adoption across the built environment?

3 - What has been the most impactful technology of the last 10 years?

4 - Where do you think the biggest wins will come from for construction in the next few years?

5 - What challenge will still be holding the industry back a year from now?

6 - DCW 2026 - What’s the hot topic, buzzword, we cannot avoid?

7 - What’s the one thing people need to be taking away from Digital Construction Week 2025?

Some gave sharp insight.

Others laughed nervously.

And only one person gave the correct answer when asked, "What do you see as the most exciting development in digital construction right now?" 

The answer: Peter Sumpton - check him out, he's alright.

This isn’t a polished highlight reel. It’s a snapshot of how the industry talks when they haven't had time to prepare or provide a scripted answer. Expect thoughtful answers and a few responses that open up the possibilities of what is next for the construction industry.

Watch to see who said what, and get a feel for where the momentum really is in digital construction.

Show Links

Get Adobe Express for FREE: https://www.adobe.com/uk/express/

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/ 

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/builddifferent

Digital Construction Links

Digital Construction Week 25 and 26: https://www.digitalconstructionweek.com/

Digital Construction North: https://www.digitalconstructionnorth.com/ 

Those leading the charge in digital construction are not only implementing tools but rethinking how the industry works, how knowledge is shared, how platforms connect, and how people adapt to rapid change. Listening to those on the front lines of this evolution offers a unique vantage point: one that blends realism with optimism, and ambition with hard-earned insight.

Sometimes it’s as important to take a step back to reflect on what’s been learned so far as it is to take the technological leaps forward and understand where the momentum is heading so that we can build a more connected, digitally confident construction sector, one person, one platform, and one mindset shift at a time. Let’s have a chat with someone who is indeed talking to one person at a time.

Amelia Fletcher-Blackburn is an Enterprise Client Partner at Causeway Technologies, where she works with some of the UK’s largest construction and infrastructure organisations to drive meaningful digital transformation. With a strong background in delivering enterprise technology, enabling organisational change and a deep understanding of the built environment, Amelia helps clients navigate complex challenges by aligning digital solutions with business outcomes.

Host of the Deconstructing Digital podcast, Amelia speaks with industry leaders, innovators, and change-makers to unpack what digital transformation really means for the construction sector.

Amelia is passionate about helping the industry embrace digital change in a way that’s sustainable, scalable, and genuinely useful on the ground.

What we cover in this live episode:

- Changing how we think about the future of digital construction.

- Closing the gaps between technology and the way we work on and off-site.

- The evolution of connected platforms and data sharing.

- The expectation of future technology enablement.

- Advice for those starting out in digital construction.

- It’s the 10-year anniversary of DCW. Where will Construction Technology be in a decade?

Show Links

Get Adobe Express for FREE: https://www.adobe.com/uk/express/

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/builddifferent

Digital Construction Links

Digital Construction Week 25 and 26: https://www.digitalconstructionweek.com/

Digital Construction North: https://www.digitalconstructionnorth.com/ 

On this podcast, we’re yet to explore the reality of digital transformation on the ground, not from the perspective of dashboards or features, but from the vantage point of the people using them. It’s about time we had a conversation about people, not platforms and the often overlooked human factors that make or break construction technology with someone who knows their behaviours from their bytes. 

Greg Demchak is a seasoned leader in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) technology sector, recently appointed as Vice President of Industry and Market Development at Motif Systems where He aims to bridge the gap between innovative technology and practical application, ensuring that Motif's next-generation AI-powered solutions are aligned with the evolving needs of design professionals.

With over two decades of experience, Greg has been instrumental in pioneering immersive technologies and real-time collaboration tools that have transformed the AEC landscape. His notable contributions include work on foundational platforms like Autodesk Revit and Synchro 4D, as well as leading digital twin initiatives at Bentley Systems. Educated as an architect, Greg holds a Master of Science in Architectural Studies from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

What we cover in this live episode:

- Moving away from fragmented communication methods

- Supporting new ways of thinking

- What ‘success’ looks like and measuring this success.

- False assumptions and surprising realisations.

- It’s the 10-year anniversary of DCW. Where will Construction Technology be in a decade?

Show Links

Get Adobe Express for FREE: https://www.adobe.com/uk/express/

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/builddifferent

Digital Construction Links

Digital Construction Week 25 and 26: https://www.digitalconstructionweek.com/

Digital Construction North: https://www.digitalconstructionnorth.com/ 

Digitalisation is no longer confined to design software or post-completion analysis. It’s reaching deeper into the materials, methods, and real-time processes that shape how buildings and infrastructure come to life. At the same time, clients and contractors are increasingly looking for smarter, more connected ways to plan, monitor and optimise across the entire project lifecycle. It’s time to cure this conundrum with someone who has solid knowledge in this area (sorry, not sorry for the concrete gags)!

Dr Djelal Osman's work is shaped by his extensive experience in both fundamental physics and applied artificial intelligence. Currently an Algorithms Engineer at Converge, he operates at the intersection of technology and sustainability, developing AI and machine learning models to reduce the carbon footprint of the construction sector, focusing particularly on optimising concrete mix designs and usage to minimise embodied carbon. 

Prior to this role, Djelal co-founded an augmented reality startup, Sention, creating novel computer vision algorithms. His academic foundation includes a PhD in Physics from the Quantum Sensors Group at the University of Cambridge, where his research focused on the physics of low-temperature imaging detectors used in orbital space telescopes.

What we cover in this live episode:

- Digital tools streamlining the management of concrete

- Continually improving sensor technology for concrete monitoring.

- How AI is transforming traditional concrete construction practices

- The benefits of using data for efficiency and sustainability

- Where do you think Construction Technology will be in 10 years?

Show Links

Get Adobe Express for FREE: https://www.adobe.com/uk/express/

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/builddifferent

Digital Construction Links

Digital Construction Week 25 and 26: https://www.digitalconstructionweek.com/

Digital Construction North: https://www.digitalconstructionnorth.com/ 

Michael Ren is the Founder and CEO of CSC Robotic Engineering Limited, a pioneering construction robot company established in 2019. Under his visionary leadership, CSC Robo is becoming a global leader in innovative construction technologies.

With a career spanning over two decades, Michael is a seasoned technologist and experienced entrepreneur with a proven track record of innovation across multiple industries. His expertise encompasses automation and robotics, power electronics, IoT devices and systems, mechanical and electronic manufacturing, advanced materials research, and micro- and nano-scale fabrication.

Michael has held roles as Director of Strategic Application in Shun Cheong Engineering Group, and as an entrepreneur and one of the founders of iLOda, a startup in connected Bluetooth low energy (BLE) wearable products. 

What we cover in this live episode:

- Finding solutions through robotics.

- Safety protocols and regulatory frameworks we need to consider.

- The best return when using robotics.

- Balancing the need for continuous R&D and technological innovations with deploying and delivering on-site robotics.

- The building site of the future.

- It’s the 10-year anniversary of DCW. Where will Construction Technology be in a decade?

Show Links

Get Adobe Express for FREE: https://www.adobe.com/uk/express/

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/builddifferent

Digital Construction Links

Digital Construction Week 25 and 26: https://www.digitalconstructionweek.com/

Digital Construction North: https://www.digitalconstructionnorth.com/ 

At the centre of this shift is a growing demand for tools that are not just digital, but dynamic, tools that support both consistency and adaptability - smarter systems, clearer playbooks, and more human-centric designs that can empower teams to work more effectively, learn faster, and deliver with greater confidence in a fast-changing world, so let’s chat to someone who is leading the charge on this.

Pip Morpeth is the CEO of Method Grid and a leading voice in transforming how complex projects are delivered across infrastructure, construction, and professional services. With over 20 years of experience, he helps organisations embed clarity, consistency, and innovation into their ways of working through structured playbooks that integrate knowledge, process, and delivery.

Pip’s work combines deep expertise in human psychology, leadership, and change, focusing on what truly drives team performance and sustained transformation. He is a passionate advocate for helping clients move beyond AI as just a nice-to-have feature, supporting teams to scale AI in practical, human-centred ways.

What we cover in this live episode:

- From static procedures to dynamic, interactive playbooks.

- Change management and user adoption challenges when implementing digital tools.

- A 'lessons learned' process.

- Method Grid and AI

- It’s the 10-year anniversary of DCW. Where will Construction Technology be in a decade?

Show Links

Get Adobe Express for FREE: https://www.adobe.com/uk/express/

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/builddifferent

Digital Construction Links

Digital Construction Week 25 and 26: https://www.digitalconstructionweek.com/

Digital Construction North: https://www.digitalconstructionnorth.com/ 

Charles Sheridan is the Chief AI and Data Officer and leads the global AI Innovation Hub for Nemetschek, driving the seamless integration of AI technologies across the company’s diverse portfolio of software as well as deploying the internal adoption of AI. 

Over more than 25 years, Charles has gained international industry experience focused on addressing critical technology challenges in the cyber-physical world. Before joining Nemetschek, he held key roles at large tech companies including Google, Intel and Huawei, where he spearheaded the development of next-generation cloud, AI, data, and IoT solutions.

What we cover in this live episode:

- Using Nemetschek’s AI Innovation Hub as an accelerator for digital transformation across the AEC/O industry.

- The integration of AI into the building lifecycle to enhance creativity, efficiency and user experience.

- Addressing ethical considerations and ensuring responsible AI deployment.

- AI Assistants' ability to reshape collaboration, decision-making and workflow management.

- It’s the 10-year anniversary of DCW. Where will Construction Technology be in a decade?

Show Links

Get Adobe Express for FREE: https://www.adobe.com/uk/express/

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/builddifferent

Digital Construction Links

Digital Construction Week 25 and 26: https://www.digitalconstructionweek.com/

Digital Construction North: https://www.digitalconstructionnorth.com/ 

So, for transformation on an industry scale to become a reality, we have to answer some really difficult questions: How do we balance the speed of innovation with a resilience to develop the skills needed to benefit, and can we meaningfully reduce inefficiencies without increasing complexity?

How are the digital and physical worlds converging in construction, and what does it take to lead the charge through that shift with clarity, purpose, and impact?

 Stuart Campbell is the Senior Manager for Trimble in UK & Ireland. He is responsible for managing the team that promotes the Trimble AECO software portfolio within some of the largest main contractors, housebuilders, specialist subcontractors and engineering consultancies and in his spare time, Stuart is studying for an MBA at Alliance Manchester Business School.

What we cover in this live episode:

- Overestimating the pace of innovation and underestimating the depth of skills needed

- The responsibility enterprises have within the industry

- The risks of over-digitising

- It’s the 10-year anniversary of DCW. Where will Construction Technology be in a decade?

Show Links

Get Adobe Express for FREE: https://www.adobe.com/uk/express/

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/builddifferent

Digital Construction Links

Digital Construction Week 25 and 26: https://www.digitalconstructionweek.com/

Digital Construction North: https://www.digitalconstructionnorth.com/ 

With 16 years of experience in Dassault Systèmes, Remi Dornier has been committed to his passion of deep interest in Geosciences, Architecture Engineering and Construction (AEC) sciences and technology. Working in close collaboration with industry, research institutions, and governments he focused on leading business transformation in Aerospace, Naval, Industrial Equipment and AEC industries in both mature and emerging markets with 7 years in France and 8 years in Asia. 

What we cover in this live episode:

- The journey of Lean Construction over the past three decades and its fundamentals.

- Addressing the three big challenges: environmental, economic, and human.

- Exploring the five principles: Focus on goals, Communicate visually, Obsess over the plan, Notice flow, Understand the human element​.

- ​Overcoming cultural and systemic barriers to lean adoption.

- The emergence of AI and how this may shape or define the future of lean construction.

- It’s the 10-year anniversary of DCW. Where will Construction Technology be in a decade?

Show Links

Get Adobe Express for FREE: https://www.adobe.com/uk/express/

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/builddifferent

Digital Construction Links

Digital Construction Week 25 and 26: https://www.digitalconstructionweek.com/

Digital Construction North: https://www.digitalconstructionnorth.com/ 

However, digitalisation is not simply a matter of implementing new technologies, it demands a shift in mindset, culture, and operational practice. As projects grow more complex and pressures on time, cost, and sustainability increase, the industry must rethink how information flows, how teams collaborate, and how value is created at every stage of the supply chain.

From real-time data integration to predictive analytics and a connected supply chain, technology is redefining what is possible but also reshaping the expectations of clients, contractors, and the wider built environment community. The importance of this cannot be understated, so we need to chat to someone who is at the top of supply chain technologies that are facilitating a more connected industry.

Paul Devlin, CEO of Causeway Technologies, is an industry veteran with over 25 years of experience in sales and consulting, holding executive leadership positions with leading global companies, including SUSE, SAP, SAS, and Teradata.

Paul is a passionate advocate for lifelong learning, having begun his career as a plumber before moving into the world of business. He is often sought out within the Industry for his thought leadership and experience in leading sales force transformations in high-growth environments.

Paul graduated in 2016 with a Masters in Leading Sales Transformation from Middlesex University and holds advanced leadership certification from Cranfield University in the UK and the Centre for Creative Leadership in the United States.

What we cover in this live episode:

- Has digital transformation in construction been too slow?

- The cost of doing nothing.

- What’s stopping us from joining the dots between data, technology and people? 

- Is it time to take more risks with technology?

- It’s the 10-year anniversary of DCW. Where will Construction Technology be in a decade?

Show Links

Get Adobe Express for FREE: https://www.adobe.com/uk/express/

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/builddifferent

Digital Construction Links

Digital Construction Week 25 and 26: https://www.digitalconstructionweek.com/

Digital Construction North: https://www.digitalconstructionnorth.com/ 

AR is moving from an emerging technology to a practical asset with a clear business case. Beyond immediate project benefits, there is also growing interest in how AR can support skills development and attract the next generation of construction professionals, so let’s chat to someone from a familiar organisation shall we?

I’m delighted to welcome Alexander Sidorov, the COO / CFO of GAMMA Technologies, a colleague of Caner and Jayan, who I mentioned earlier, and the company behind GAMMA AR. 

He drives the Company’s Strategy and Operations and has 10 years of experience in corporate finance and venture building across various industries, including construction-related and technology-oriented projects. He also contributes to business development efforts of GAMMA Technologies across several geographies, including the UK and is obsessed with best practices and efficient deployment of field-based ConTech solutions.

What we cover in this live episode:

- The business case for adopting AR technology.

- Lightbulb moments when using AR.

- GAMMA ARs evolution to stay ahead.

- Attracting the next generation of construction workers.

- It’s the 10-year anniversary of DCW. Where will Construction Technology be in a decade?

Show Links

Get Adobe Express for FREE: https://www.adobe.com/uk/express/

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/builddifferent

Digital Construction Links

Digital Construction Week 25 and 26: https://www.digitalconstructionweek.com/

Digital Construction North: https://www.digitalconstructionnorth.com/ 

Digital tools and smarter processes are central to addressing this complexity, helping organisations plan more effectively, operate more sustainably, and build with greater precision. Yet transformation at this scale also depends on something less tangible: the ability to adapt ways of working, develop new capabilities, and navigate the gaps between vision and implementation.

With this in mind, let’s chat to someone who is leading the charge on this.

Nathan Marsh is the Regional Executive for EMEA at Bentley Systems. As the senior leader in the region, he is responsible for the strategy, growth, and success of the EMEA business. He has over 20 years of leadership roles within management consultancy, risk advisory, private equity and corporate finance, engineering, and construction businesses, all focused on the funding, design, delivery, and operation of complex and critical national infrastructure.

Prior to joining Bentley, Nathan served as Chief Digital Officer for FTSE and SEC listed construction businesses, leading the deployment of digital solutions into major infrastructure programmes to create value, reduce risk and improve performance. 

Nathan has also served as a British army officer, played professional rugby and is privileged to represent industry on a range of expert panels, advisory boards and committees.

What we cover in this live episode:

- Reshaping the way infrastructure assets are designed, built, and managed.

- The key challenges in implementing tech across varied built environments and economies.

- Growth opportunities from a regional perspective and the tech that will support this growth.

- A shifting skills profile within construction.

- It’s the 10-year anniversary of DCW. Where will Construction Technology be in a decade?

Show Links

Get Adobe Express for FREE: https://www.adobe.com/uk/express/

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/builddifferent

Digital Construction Links

Digital Construction Week 25 and 26: https://www.digitalconstructionweek.com/

Digital Construction North: https://www.digitalconstructionnorth.com/ 

For technology to genuinely improve how people work on-site, it needs to do more than just monitor or automate. It must support real communication, foster trust, and make safety and efficiency part of the culture, not just the paperwork.

From workforce empowerment to ethical accountability, this is a chance to look at construction technology not just as systems of data, but as systems of people with someone who is building systems for people.

Simon Elliott is the CEO of 1Breadcrumb, a construction technology company helping contractors digitise and streamline safety and compliance on-site. Established across Australia and the UK, and is now expanding into North America, 1Breadcrumb empowers frontline workers through its intuitive technology. 

Simon brings over 20 years of experience in digital transformation, with roles across the Health, Government, and Construction Technology sectors. He has founded companies, led M&A transactions, overseen international expansions, and guided businesses through venture funding and strategic growth.

Today, Simon leads the business through its next phase of global scale, while staying grounded in a mission to make safety and compliance simple, embedded, and worker-friendly.

What we cover in this live episode:

- Designing tech that workers want to use.

- Shifting from viewing safety as a checklist to embedding it into the organisational culture.

- Maintaining a high level of compliance.

- Supporting a culture of accountability, not creating suspicion.

- It’s the 10-year anniversary of DCW. Where will Construction Technology be in a decade?

Show Links

Get Adobe Express for FREE: https://www.adobe.com/uk/express/

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/builddifferent

Digital Construction Links

Digital Construction Week 25 and 26: https://www.digitalconstructionweek.com/

Digital Construction North: https://www.digitalconstructionnorth.com/ 

And that is what they call a seamless segway, because if you missed out on last year's recordings, you're in for a treat. In this weeks special episode we're revisiting the dynamic conversations recorded live at Digital Construction Week (DCW) 2024.

As the construction industry continues to innovation at a faster and faster pace, DCW 2024 provided the perfect platform for thought leaders to share insights on the digital transformation shaping our built environment.

These conversations underscore the industry's commitment to embracing digital transformation. As we reflect on just some of the insights each episode provided, it's clear that the integration of technology in construction is an evolution for efficiency, collaboration and innovation.

Here are some of the highlights We'll dive into from Digital Construction Week 2024;

• Digital Adoption with Ben Huskisson (Gleeds): Ben delved into the challenges and opportunities of integrating digital tools within construction workflows, emphasising the importance of cultural change alongside technological advancement.
• Digital Transformations with Kris Lengieza (ProCore): Kris shared his experiences on driving digital change, highlighting strategies for effective implementation and the role of leadership in integrating innovation.
• Site Efficiency and Management with Roger Bradbury (Chime): Roger discussed practical approaches to enhancing on-site efficiency through digital solutions, focusing on real-time data and resource management.
• Project Management and Objective Data with Andy Steele (Buildots): Andy explored the integration of objective data in project management, illustrating how data-driven decisions can lead to improved project outcomes.
• Cloud Construction Technology with Kristina Poluyanova (AutoDesk): Kristina examined the impact of cloud technologies on construction processes, discussing scalability, collaboration, and data accessibility.
• Streamlining Processes with José Oliveira (DiRoots): José highlighted methods to streamline construction processes, focusing on efficiency gains through digital tools and process optimisation.
• Machine Learning with Varun Bhartiya (nCircle): Varun introduced applications of machine learning in construction, demonstrating how predictive analytics can enhance decision-making and project planning.
• Supply Chain Transformations with Neeral Shah (YardLink): Neeral discussed the digitisation of the construction supply chain, addressing challenges and showcasing solutions for improved transparency and efficiency.
• Digital Twins with Anand Mecheri (Twinit): Anand explored the concept of digital twins, explaining their role in simulating and managing built environments for better performance and sustainability.

Links

Get Adobe Express for FREE: https://www.adobe.com/uk/express/

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/builddifferent

As the UK’s leading event dedicated to innovation in the built environment, Digital Construction Week (allbeit not a week) offers a valuable lens on the organisations, technologies, ideas and conversations shaping this transformation. Now in its tenth year, the show brings together thousands of professionals from across architecture, engineering, construction and operations for two days (again, not a week) of discovery, learning and collaboration.

But what can we expect from this year’s, erm, week? From standout sessions and emerging technologies. The ‘week’ reflects the evolving needs of the industry, the role it plays in helping professionals make sense of complex trends, as well as the required critical decision-making of what tech is right for their organisation. So let’s chat to someone who knows the answer to these questions better than most.

Karolina Orecchini is the Event Director of Digital Construction Week (DCW), the UK’s leading event for innovation and technology in the built environment. With over five years dedicated to DCW, Karolina has helped shape the show into a dynamic platform for professionals driving digital change across architecture, engineering, construction, and operations.

With a background that spans various industries such as beauty and football, Karolina has built a career on delivering impactful events. While the sectors may have changed, a deep passion for bringing people together remained constant.

We're taking a look at:

- The evolution of Digital Construction Week (10 years on)

- What should people expect this year

- Where should people be heading on the day?

- What goes into building an event like DCW?

- Balancing hot topics with ever-present ones such as Digital Twins, BIM and ERPs

- Emerging technologies and under-discussed ideas

- What do you want people to take away from this year's event?

Links

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028 

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/builddifferent

Further Links

https://www.digitalconstructionweek.com/

Register here: https://eventdata.uk/Forms/Form.aspx?FormRef=DCW65Visitor

In today’s episode, we're discussing why creative technology, specifically Adobe Express, should be a central part of every UK construction company’s toolkit. Communicating clearly, consistently, and professionally is paramount, whether it's winning bids, managing client expectations, becoming memorable, creating brand salience, or effectively collaborating with suppliers and internal teams. Having the right technology to streamline and enhance content creation can set your business apart.

Adobe Express simplifies complex content production tasks that typically require significant resources or specialist skills. From quick-turnaround tender documents and impactful marketing materials to internal training resources, supplier communications, and collaborations, Adobe Express empowers teams of any size to deliver exceptional quality efficiently, cost-effectively, and most importantly, consistently, thanks to its clever product design, intuitive interface, and tools that enhance rather than hinder the creative process.

Allow me to take you through my top five capabilities that Adobe Express has to offer and explore how each can specifically benefit organisations within the UK construction industry or, indeed any organisation with a B2B focus. These capabilities are not just for enhancing marketing; they also support sales, HR, procurement, customer service, product development, HSE, technical, and supplier engagements.

Imagine this scenario:

- Someone has created complex designs in Illustrator and/or Photoshop.

- These designs can be imported seamlessly into Adobe Express, where you need to remove some graphics that aren't relevant.

- You use the Generative AI ‘Remove Objects’ feature to update the design and subsequently apply the correct branding seamlessly.

- This design needs to be used in four different tenders, requiring multiple resizes.

- This can be done with just a few clicks in Adobe Express.

- You decide that, with a few tweaks and using various parts of the design, it would create excellent content showcasing the best your organisation has to offer.

- You schedule multiple posts, even using AI to write intuitive and engaging copy tailored to each communication platform, and with just a click, you have a week's worth of content from a single image.

Top five B2B creative capabilities from Adobe Express

- Staying in sync with your favorite apps

- Commercially safe generative AI

- Brands & Apply Brand

- Complex edits in a single click

- Content Scheduler

Links

Try out Adobe Express at adobe.com/express and then let me know below what YOU love about it!

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/builddifferent

#AdobeExpressAmbassadors #Ad #ChooseAdobeExpress

In this episode, we take a deep dive into the latest trends, challenges, and insights shaping the industry from the people in the know, those pesky marketers. We’ll be exploring findings from the latest research curated by the SLG Agency in their annual Horizon Report (link in the show notes - obvs), uncovering what’s changed over the past year, and discussing the real impact of key marketing activities. 

From AI and personalisation to the role of brand awareness, we’ll be cutting through the noise to understand what’s driving success, and what might just be a distraction. So, whether you’re a marketer, business leader, or simply curious about the future of construction marketing, this episode is packed with valuable insights you won’t want to miss and who better to lead us through this than someone familiar to the podcast.

Today we welcome BACK Ryan Jones, Managing Director at SLG. Ryan has 20-years of experience managing communications for some of the construction sector’s biggest names, building up a wealth of strategic marketing experience.

Under Ryan’s leadership, SLG has won multiple awards for its impactful campaigns, proving that marketing can do more than just promote, it can shape industries.

Here are the marketing insights we chat about

- Introduction to the Horizon report

- What’s changed since last years report

- Why brand awareness is a main activity… but not a key metric?

- A focus on MQLs and… web traffic?

- Campaign volume down and why this is a good thing

- Content is 'the internal’ King, but strategy isn't

- AI and personalisation are hot topics (but so is podcasting)

- Is AI suffering from 'new shiny toys syndrome' as sustainability becomes unsustainable

Links

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028 

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/builddifferent

Further Links

https://www.slg.agency/horizon-2025/

In this session, we dive into the Fair Payment Code, a crucial topic for the construction industry.

Late payments have long been a challenge in the sector, and ensuring fair, transparent, and timely payments is more important than ever. But here’s the thing, compliance with the code isn’t just about policy and best practice. Technology plays a huge role in making fair payment a reality, streamlining processes, and ensuring businesses get paid on time.

Let’s get into it!

Late payments have been a persistent issue in the UK construction industry, creating cash flow problems, delaying projects, and putting undue pressure on suppliers. With increasing scrutiny on payment practices, the introduction of the Fair Payment Code (FPC) is designed to drive positive change, promoting transparency, accountability, and efficiency across supply chains.

But what does the Fair Payment Code mean in practice? How can construction firms ensure compliance, and what are the benefits of achieving a Fair Payment Code Award?

We’re joined by Philip King, former CEO of the Chartered Institute of Credit Management and Causeway Cashflow Consultant, to explore the ins and outs of the Fair Payment Code. We’ll break down how the framework works, what businesses need to do to meet the criteria, and the competitive advantages that come with compliance.

Here's what you need to know and will find out in this episode:

- From Prompt Payment to Fair Payment – How does the FPC differ, and why was it introduced?

- The Awarding Levels Explained – What do Bronze, Silver, and Gold accreditation mean for your business?

- The Road to Compliance – What documentation and processes are required to apply?

- Clear, Fair & Collaborative – The three core principles and how they are measured.

- Overcoming Barriers – Common challenges in achieving FPC status and how to tackle them.

Links

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028 

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/builddifferent

Further Links

https://www.smallbusinesscommissioner.gov.uk/fpc/

Webinar Video: https://campaign.causeway.com/ondemand/fair-payment-code-fpc

Poorly managed surface water can lead to flooding, pollution, and long-term infrastructure damage, with around 38% of all roads in areas at risk from flooding - which essentially means more roadworks, more traffic light systems and subsequently a lower tolerance for other road users… just me? Anyway, this makes it essential to integrate sustainable drainage solutions that balance performance, resilience, and environmental impact.

At the same time, roads and highways can act as barriers to wildlife movement, disrupting habitats and leading to significant biodiversity loss – Imagine if someone decided to drive the M6 right through your living room, nightmare, the toll alone would be ridiculous.

Innovative solutions, such as wildlife tunnels, amphibian-friendly kerbs, and guidance systems, are helping to create safer passageways for animals while reducing roadkill (which accounts for nearly a third of most deaths a 2023 study reported) and habitat fragmentation. 

As awareness of these issues grows, there is a pressing need to ensure that infrastructure projects incorporate both advanced surface water management techniques and effective wildlife connectivity measures.

With evolving regulations, new technologies, and a greater emphasis on sustainability, the challenge now is to drive the widespread adoption of these solutions, ensuring they become an integral part of highway design, construction, and maintenance. And who better to talk to about this than someone that lives and breathes it!

 As a Specialist Design & Application Engineer for ACO, Terry Wilkinson has focused his career on the highways industry, both in his 11 years at ACO and prior to this working as a client, consultant and contractor for Local Authority highways. He is a member of the CIHT and ICE and is working towards his chartered engineer status with CPD at the heart of this journey. His professional interests are focused on wildlife mitigation solutions and highway drainage in particular making him the perfect chap to chat to about SuDs, wildlife mitigation and keeping both humans and animals safe.

Water and Wildlife Topics

- (SuDS) in Highways: Challenges and Innovations

- Wildlife Mitigation in Infrastructure: Balancing Development with Ecology

- Integrating Surface Water Management with Wildlife Protection

- Climate Resilience in Surface Water Management: Preparing for Extreme Weather

- The Future of Highway Drainage: Smart Technologies and Digital Innovation

Links

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028 

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/builddifferent

Further Links

https://www.aco.co.uk/sustainable-drainage-systems-(suds)

https://www.aco.co.uk/wildlife

https://reachandrescue.com/flood-statistics/#:~:text=Around%205%20million%20people%20live,%C2%A31.1%20billion%20across%20England. 

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/national-assessment-of-flood-and-coastal-erosion-risk-in-england-2024/national-assessment-of-flood-and-coastal-erosion-risk-in-england-2024 

https://www.newcivilengineer.com/latest/flooding-and-drainage-related-defects-to-uks-road-network-see-36-rise-07-02-2024/ 

https://www.aco.co.uk/news/article/Managing-biodiversity

In this episode, we’re going to explore why marketing in construction often feels like it’s stuck in the past, discuss the key excuses businesses use to justify underperformance, and most importantly, outline the four foundational marketing principles that can elevate any organisation.

This is a topic I feel strongly about, and I hope that by the end of this episode, you’ll not only have a fresh perspective on marketing but also some practical takeaways to improve your strategy—whether you’re part of a small team, a one-person department, or leading a full-scale marketing operation.

So, let’s get into it.

The Marketing Challenge in Construction

Around this time last year, I was fortunate enough to be invited to present at the Builders Merchants Federation (BMF) Marketing Forum at JCB HQ in Uttoxeter. The BMF has been on an impressive journey over the past decade, completely transforming its approach and positioning itself as a modern, forward-thinking organisation.

Their move from an old, expensive building in London to sleek, modern offices in the Midlands is symbolic of their wider transformation—one focused on market orientation, putting the merchant first, and driving the industry forward. They understand that when one part of the industry improves, everyone benefits. A rising tide lifts all boats, as the saying goes.

From a marketing perspective, this is one of the few real success stories in the construction sector. And that’s precisely the issue—why are there so few? Why is the standard of marketing in construction so low?

Too often, companies seem to engage in marketing not because they genuinely believe it will drive business success, but simply because "everyone else is doing it." But if everyone else is doing the bare minimum, and we follow suit, we’re just reinforcing the same low standard across the industry. This creates an opportunity—a huge one—for marketers who are willing to think differently, take marketing seriously, and truly elevate their game.

Which brings me back to my presentation at the BMF Forum. I thought this would be the perfect opportunity to share some of the key insights from that talk because, a year later, the conversation is still just as relevant—if not more so.

I hope this episode gives you value, makes you question some of your current marketing practices, and ultimately encourages you to think differently about how getting your marketing right can lead to real business growth—whether that means increased enquiries, greater brand awareness, higher market share, stronger sales, or ultimately, better profitability.

But here’s the odd thing: while I’m advocating for change, the fundamentals of marketing haven’t actually changed at all. The core principles remain the same.

Sure, media channels have evolved. Consumer habits have shifted. But the way we build the foundations of a marketing strategy has not. That’s what we’ll break down today—how everything has changed, and yet nothing has changed at all.

Topics you’ll hear covered in this episode:

- The Reality Check: The Data Doesn’t Lie

- The Four Foundations of Strong Marketing:

1. Understanding the Market and Basic Market Orientation

2. Strategic Intent – The Car Journey Analogy

3. Tactical Execution – The 4Ps of Marketing

4. Number Crunching – Looking Beyond the Surface Data

- Where are we now and what do we need to do to heighten this bar or mediocre marketing?

Links

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028 

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/builddifferent

From addressing enhanced safety standards to integrating sustainable manufacturing practices, the journey of innovating protective gear is a testament to how the industry values its people. It’s not just about functionality anymore; comfort, design, and ethical production are shaping the future of how we safeguard those on the ground.

Let’s delve into the ever-evolving landscape of workforce protection and explore the advancements redefining safety footwear for the construction industry with our guest.

Rhys Elavia is the UK Sales Manager for the iconic brand, Totectors. As a third-generation member of the Totectors family, Rhys brings a deeply personal connection to the brand’s history, having witnessed its evolution and resurgence firsthand.

From its emergence during World War II, Totectors emergence depended on a 48 hour poker game where founder Bill Benton wagered everything on securing the rights to steel toe cap technology from inventor Arthur Williams, and in doing so transformed the UK safety footwear industry forever.

Today, Totectors continues its legacy as part of International Brands Group, remaining at the forefront of design and innovation.

Protecting Your Workforce Topics

- The Legacy of Totectors: Balancing Heritage and Modernity

- Innovations in Safety Footwear for the Modern Workforce

- The Role of Sales in Building a Brand

- Sustainability and Ethical Manufacturing in Safety Footwear

Links

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028 

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/builddifferent

Further Links

https://totectors.co.uk/pages/history 

https://www.constructionnews.co.uk/sections/news/23apr92-uk-horror-toll-of-construction-foot-injuries-23-04-1992/

https://www.uvex-safety.co.uk/en/knowledge/safety-standards/safety-footwear/#:~:text=The%20standard%20EN%20ISO%2020345,or%20cold%2C%20and%20hot%20substances

Mentioned in this episode:

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028

Central to these efforts is the effective use of data and digital tools, which are transforming traditional approaches with more efficient, precise, and collaborative processes. By leveraging advanced technologies such as BIM and integrating data management strategies, the construction industry can enhance decision-making, optimise resource use, and reduce risks. Simple, right? On paper, yes, but when implementing new processes there is always a risk. The risk that not everyone is on the same page, the risk that technology fails, the risk of legacy systems, incorrect data and the lack of enough knowledge within the industry to truly make these things stick! Think we better meet today's guest who should help to settle our nerves on this one.

Anita Soni is a digital transformation leader in the construction industry, utilising data and information management tools & processes to enhance design and construction productivity through BIM, Engineering Survey & Geospatial solutions. 

Anita has a proven track record of leading and delivering BIM processes on multi-sector mega & large infrastructure projects with extensive and successful experience in preconstruction, delivering digital and innovation strategies as well as pre-contract documentation for tenders.

With an Engineering Doctorate from UCL in Geomatic Engineering, Anita is a Chartered Surveyor of RICS and the founder of DataStruct as well as consulting for Third Digital who specialise in CDE configuration and BIM/CAD management services.

PreConstruction and Data Topics

- The Role of BIM in Enhancing Pre-Construction Processes

- Leveraging Data for Better Decision-Making in Construction

- GeoBIM: Integrating Geospatial Data with BIM for Enhanced Project Insights

- The Importance of Information Management in Construction Projects

- Digital Transformation - Can we have too much data?

Links

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028 

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/builddifferent

Further Links

https://www.thenbs.com/about-nbs/press-releases/a-digital-evolution-majority-using-bim

https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/14498596.2019.1627253#d1e626 

https://www.newcivilengineer.com/latest/new-report-shows-uk-construction-leads-on-data-but-gaps-remain-01-05-2024/

However, as the industry evolves in more ways than one, creative execution is becoming a critical component in driving engagement, enhancing brand recognition, and establishing market differentiation. From crafting compelling content and leveraging social media to developing unique brand identities and measuring campaign success, creative strategies are transforming how construction companies communicate and connect with their audiences. 

As a generalist marketer creating a podcast episode devoted purely to the creative comes with a whole bunch of caveats, many of which I’ve spoken about before. You can’t get to the creative, it shouldn't be touched until the hard work or research, market orientation, strategic intent and tactical development have been worked on, and even then, it should not just be a “we just need an advert/logo/brand”. The creative process is far too technical and important not to pay full attention to it. With that said, within construction, it’s easy to find the haters of the discipline, even though these haters (everyone for that matter) are influenced by creative executions every single day, which means we need to chat with someone who knows their pantones from their framerates.

Dan Moore is a creative entrepreneur and co-founder of dissident creative agency. With a background in photography, Dan’s career in the creative industry began unexpectedly when he pivoted from pursuing plumbing to a passion for visual storytelling. In 2012, he launched his own photography studio, which has since grown into a creative agency that works with both local businesses and international brands on photography, videography, social media and podcast production. Dan brings a problem-solving approach to creativity, focusing on delivering solutions tailored to the construction industry and beyond.

The Topics We Chat Through

- The Role of Creativity in the Construction Industry

- Crafting Engaging Content that Resonates

- The Impact of Social Media

- Creative Consistency

- Visual Storytelling

Links

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028 

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/builddifferent

Further Links

www.dissidentagency.com

https://www.linkedin.com/company/dissident-creative-agency

https://www.instagram.com/dissidentagency

This all sounds so easy and I feel most of the time it can be summaries by simply not being a dickhead about things and simply doing the right thing. To put this into some context we need to chat to someone who understands the whole ecological environment from within the construction industry.

Sarah Stone has over 17 years of experience in ecological consultancy. During this time she has been involved in all aspects of ecological surveys, reporting and assessment, for a variety of clients. Her current role sees her leading the technical aspects of the ecology team at BWB Consulting. As well as delivering the full suite of habitat and protected species surveys and reports, the team has an increasing focus on providing commercial advice in relation to a project’s Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) requirements.

Sarah has been delivering and overseeing BNG assessments for a number of years and is proficient in the use of Statutory Metrics for calculating both the baseline and post-development units and advising clients on the best ways to minimise their costs.

List of Topics

- Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) in UK Construction

- The Role of Ecological Surveys in Construction Planning

- Advancements in Habitat and Species Conservation

- Strategies for Biodiversity Compliance

- The Future of Ecological Consultancy in Construction

Links

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028 

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/builddifferent

Further Links

https://www.knightfrank.com/research/article/2023-06-29-biodiversity-net-gain-guide

https://woodhartgroup.co.uk/news/how-construction-affects-the-environment/#:~:text=Research%20conducted%20by%20Bimhow%20shows,big%20contributors%20to%20climate%20change.

https://citychangers.org/construction-facts-and-figures/

It’s about time we had an episode that explores this topic - how the integration of cutting-edge tools like virtual reality, artificial intelligence, and immersive tech can transform not just the way we work, but how we develop and empower the people within our industry and in doing so benefit the industry itself. It’s a never-ending cycle of positivity, or at least it is if we can master it. So let’s chat with someone who is currently mastering this, shall we?

Rob Claridge is Laing O’Rourke’s European Learning Solutions Owner, overseeing the transformation of its learning and development strategy. Known for his entrepreneurial spirit and his passion for solving problems by combining the new and the old, his time in the financial sector was marked with several awards, including the 20th Banking Technology Awards’ Rising Tech Star.

Back to the present day Rob now oversees the L&D of several new innovative products and projects including immersive learning and augmented and virtual reality. His work to date on the reimagining of the “Working at Heights” course saw the project honoured at the Building Construction Awards in late 2022 in the field of Virtual Reality. Since then Rob has held talks on The Metaverse, VR and AI – to showcase the innovations that Laing O’Rourke is working with right now.

Discussion Topics

- The Role of Technology in Transforming Learning and Development in Construction

- Bridging the Gap Between Traditional and Modern Construction Techniques

- Exploring the Metaverse, VR, and AI in Construction

- The Impact of Immersive Learning

- Entrepreneurial Spirit v Large Organisations and Innovation

Links

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028 

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/builddifferent

Further Links

https://www.oxfordcollege.ac/news/skills-gap-statistics-uk/ 

https://www.ukconstructionmedia.co.uk/features/revolutionising-construction-safety-the-impact-of-technology/

Mentioned in this episode:

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028

As the demand for sustainable and high-quality infrastructure grows, construction firms are increasingly turning to automated solutions to meet these challenges head-on and with this are transforming every stage of the construction process.

The integration of automation in construction is not about replacing manual labour with machines and stealing jobs to assist the bottom line; it is about redefining how projects are planned, managed, and executed. As construction firms embrace these advancements, innovation and technology lead the way to more sustainable, efficient, and successful projects. But how do we know what will be successful, it’s not as easy as just a click of a mouse or a tap of a button. We need to chat with someone who knows a thing or two about automation and the simplification of processes.

Allister Lewis, the founder of Automated Data Driven Design (ADDD) is a specialist in Construction Technology software for the AEC industry. With a passion for the use of digital tools, Allister full understands the scale and scope these tools bring and the opportunity that to build a better, faster, and more profitable industry.  Supporting AEC companies by performing digital consultancy services such as searching, reviewing, reporting and implementation,  Allister is currently working on the ADDD Marketplace which will be the central resource for AEC ConTech software in the future. The vision for this is to provide seamless access to all ConTech software through a digital marketplace.

List of Topics

- Automated Data Driven Design (ADDD) - What is it and what is its importance?

- Automating repetitive tasks - how and when?

- Using data to make informed decisions

- Software that will blow you away

- Continuous learning (check out Allisters' top tips on where to gain knowledge)!

Links

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028 

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/builddifferent

Further Links

www.addd.io

https://www.msuite.com/bad-construction-data-costs-industry-1-8-trillion-worldwide/

https://www.statista.com/outlook/tmo/software/productivity-software/construction-and-design-software/united-kingdom#:~:text=Revenue%20in%20the%20Construction%20and,US%240.64bn%20by%202029.

However, the path towards realising the full potential of smart cities and buildings is complex, involving a delicate balance between innovation and practicality. Critical issues that are shaping this transformation, from the challenges of interoperability and data management to the overarching vision of what the future holds for our increasingly connected world are present before, during and after the implementation of any technology that is to integrate seamlessly with our surroundings. 

So we need to chat with someone who can iron out some of these issues and help us create a cohesive urban environment.

Georgios Grigoriou is a Principal Consultant in Building System Integration and Digital Twin Graph technologies, specialising in strategy, design, delivery and intelligence of energy efficiency and smart buildings. 

Georgios is leading and coordinating the digital readiness, data acquisition and analytics activities, driving innovative, data-driven solutions for sustainable and holistically efficient environments at Arcadis.

Committed to sustainability and better quality of life, Georgios strives to positively impact people, places, and the planet. He’s also been shortlisted for the Best Digital Engineer Award in 2022 and 2023 and is a Committee Member (Digital Media Manager) of the CIBSE Intelligent Buildings Group, where he leads initiatives related to Ontologies.

What we cover in this episode

- Cohesive urban environment (smart cities and smart building integration)

- Data privacy and security in a smart world

- Challenges and opportunities in achieving interoperability

- Data overload? Speed of info knowledge within the industry

- Are the possibilities endless? Is there an end result?

Links

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028 

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/builddifferent

Further Links

Verdantix highlights Arcadis leadership and innovation in Environmental Services and Building Decarbonization Consulting: https://www.arcadis.com/en-gb/news/global/2024/8/verdantix-highlights-arcadis-in-green-quadrant-reports

Ontologies presentation Dec 23: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zHrJiJHMZ0k

Arcadis Sustainable Cities Index 2024: https://www.arcadis.com/en-gb/news/global/2024/6/cities-have-just-2000-days-left-to-achieve-critical-sustainability-goals#:~:text=The%20Arcadis%20Sustainable%20Cities%20Index,evolving%20understanding%20of%20urban%20sustainability.

Arcadis ranked among the top architecture firms in the world, debuting on World Architecture 100 list at number two https://www.arcadis.com/en-gb/news/global/2024/1/arcadis-makes-debut-on-world-architecture-100-list

https://smartertechnologies.com/blog/the-role-of-smart-buildings-in-building-future-cities/

https://harksys.com/blog/smart-building-stats-why-building-owners-and-operators-should-care-about-their-energy-usage-and-iot/ 

https://www.precedenceresearch.com/smart-building-market#:~:text=Table%20of%20Content-,Smart%20Building%20Market%20Size%20and%20Companies,USD%2031.75%20billion%20in%202023. 

Building biodiversity within urban landscapes is not just about preserving green spaces; it’s about creating a harmonious coexistence between human habitats and the natural world. This approach enhances the resilience of cities, improves the quality of life for residents, and ensures that urban areas contribute positively to the planet’s ecological health. As cities continue to grow, the integration of biodiversity principles into urban planning and development becomes a cornerstone for sustainable and livable environments. The conversation around nurturing nature in our urban landscapes is vital for the future.

To dig a little deeper into this we need to chat with not one but two experts in the biodiversity field - Lloyd Collins and Alexa Culver.

Lloyd works within Environment Bank’s BNG Advisory and Delivery Team as an Account Director in Planning and Delivery, working closely with Environment Bank's developer clients to guide land and planning directors and their consultants through the often high-stakes BNG aspects of the planning process. Lloyd has many years of experience in the private sector and is a Chartered Member of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI), an Associate Member of the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA) and holds a BSc (Hons) / MPlan in Urban Planning, currently studying for an MSc in Sustainable Development.

Alexa is General Counsel at Environment Bank, a Member of the College of Experts for the Office for Environmental Protection and recognised in the ENDS Report Power List as one of the most impactful environmental lawyers of 2023. As a lawyer with over 16 years’ experience working on land, planning, environmental and green finance projects, Alexa helps to inform policy developments in natural capital regulation and designs legal contracts, leases and conservation covenants that maximise natural capital value through novel and enduring financial and governance mechanisms.

Listen Up and Learn About

- Why Biodiversity is so Important

- Implementing Biodiversity in Urban Planning

- Sustainability Leadership in the Construction Sector

- Integrating Biodiversity into Commercial and Residential Developments

- The Future of Sustainable Development

Links

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028 

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/builddifferent

Further Links

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/understanding-biodiversity-net-gain#:~:text=In%20England%2C%20BNG%20is%20mandatory,than%20there%20was%20before%20development.

https://iucn.org/story/202305/embracing-biodiversity-paving-way-nature-inclusive-cities

https://www.forbes.com/sites/sap/2021/08/25/the-construction-industry-is-getting-greener-why-how-and-whats-changing/#:~:text=The%20industry%20recognizes%20the%20need,to%20meeting%20their%20sustainability%20goals. 

https://www.forbes.com/sites/sap/2021/08/25/the-construction-industry-is-getting-greener-why-how-and-whats-changing/#:~:text=The%20industry%20recognizes%20the%20need,to%20meeting%20their%20sustainability%20goals.

https://ww3.rics.org/uk/en/journals/property-journal/the-impact-of-biodiversity-uplift-on-development-.html

The Golden Thread would not only ensure accurate and up-to-date information is accessible at every stage of a project, but it also empowers construction teams to make informed decisions swiftly and effectively. In this way, the Golden Thread plays a pivotal role in addressing the challenges faced by the construction industry, such as complex documentation and fragmented communication.

This is all well and good in theory, it’s a no-brainer, but the issues it looks to resolve are also the potential pitfalls of such a cohesive approach. A fragmented market, the majority of which are small businesses means the application of a Golden Thread isn’t as easy as pressing a button, some don’t even have buttons to press! But this is no reason not to try, try and improve the industry for the better. To find out if this is even possible we need to chat to someone in the know.

Rob Norton is a seasoned professional in the digital construction industry, currently serving as the UK Director at PlanRadar, a leading platform for digital documentation, communication and reporting in construction, facility management and real estate projects. With over five years of experience at PlanRadar, Rob has been instrumental in streamlining construction processes through innovative digital solutions.

Rob is dedicated to making both employees' and employers' lives easier by leveraging technology to make construction more efficient. His diverse background, from wiring fire engines as an apprentice electrician to business development and sales in different sectors, has equipped him with a unique perspective on problem-solving and efficiency in construction. His journey reflects a deep commitment to leveraging digital tools to transform and improve the construction landscape.

If you’re interested in reading more about the golden thread, check out the eBook from PlanRadar: “Digitise the Golden Thread in Fire Safety” - https://www.planradar.com/gb/ebooks/digitise-golden-thread-fire-safety/?utm_source=builddifferent_podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=builddifferent_podcast_ebook.

Or alternatively book a demo and see how PlanRadar assists with your processes and projects - https://www.planradar.com/gb/book-a-product-demo/?utm_source=builddifferent_podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=builddifferent_podcast_bookademo 

List of Topics

- Implementing the Golden Thread in Construction

- Enhancing Communication and Collaboration

- Benefits of Automating Snagging and Documentation Processes

- The Role of Mobile Technology in Modern Construction

- The Future of Construction Documentation and Task Management

Links

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028 

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/builddifferent

In the Making Podcast (Season 9; Episode 7 with Magdiel Lopez):  https://link.chtbl.com/2cXrJM_i

Further Links

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/construction-sector-deal/construction-sector-deal#:~:text=The%20construction%20sector%20is%20one,over%209%25%20of%20the%20workforce.

https://builduk.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Securing-Skills-in-Construction.pdf

https://www.pbctoday.co.uk/news/digital-construction-news/construction-technology-news/construction-technology-tackling-21bn-error/135285/

https://www.visual-planning.com/en/blog/project-management-statistics

https://news.gallup.com/businessjournal/152429/cost-bad-project-management.aspx

https://www.mckinsey.com/~/media/McKinsey/dotcom/client_service/Corporate%20Finance/MoF/PDF%20issues/PDFs%20Issue%2045/Final/MoF45_LargeScaleIT.ashx

Smart cities represent a bold vision for the future—one where technology is leveraged to create more livable, sustainable, and resilient urban spaces. These cities use vast amounts of data to improve everything from energy consumption and transportation to public safety and environmental health. Yet, for smart cities to truly fulfil their promise, they must be designed with a focus on inclusivity and community impact, ensuring that all residents benefit from the technological advancements.

But can a smart city truly contribute meaningfully on a global scale to humanity's well-being and sustainability goals? We need to chat to someone who can help us examine these interconnected topics!

George Floros is the Associate Director of Digital Construction at AtkinsRealis, leading the Digital Construction strategy across the Nuclear & Power sector. George’s expertise lies on the long-term integration of the GEO and BIM domains (GeoBIM) to realise the digital thread across project lifecycles.

George is delivering the Digital Transformation of the AEC industry by leveraging the power of data-driven Digital Twins and Smart Cities. Focusing on holistic integrations with a customer-centric approach, George delivers economic, environmental and social value for all project stakeholders, whilst reducing risk through cross-disciplinary, connected, data-driven solutions.

In parallel to all of this, George is pursuing his PhD at the University College London focusing on the integration of GeoBIM for Asset Management.

List of Topics

- The Potential of a Smart City

- Smart Cities and community impact

- Can Smart Cities contribute to Net Zero targets

- Generating enough power to sustain digital progress

- Digital and nuclear build, operations and decommissioning

Links

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028 

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/builddifferent

Further Links

https://www.marketwatch.com/press-release/smart-city-market-size-is-set-to-grow-by-usd-345-8-billion-from-2024-2028-increase-in-it-consolidation-and-modernization-boost-the-market-technavio-f09ca310

https://www.capgemini.com/us-en/news/research-global-citizens-favor-smart-cities-and-call-for-their-hometowns-to-be-sustainable/

https://informedinfrastructure.com/82749/mckinsey-company-new-report-reveals-that-more-than-50-of-built-environment-emissions-can-be-reduced-with-existing-technology-by-2030/

https://www.nrc.gov/docs/ML2116/ML21160A074.pdf 

Mentioned in this episode:

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028

These combined innovative digital solutions aim to meet the evolving demands of modern urban landscapes, improving the way communities interact with their surroundings. As cities continue to grow and evolve, the potential for data-driven strategies to revolutionise urban living has never been more promising. But it is not without its challenges and as the latest meltdown from Microsoft evidences, we’re one line of code away from cities potentially malfunctioning.

We need to understand smart cities, the technology behind them and what the future hold a whole lot better, so let's chat with someone who will help us do this!

Dr Shadan Dwairi is a Senior BIM and Digital Engineering Consultant at Costain. Prior to becoming a BIM expert, Shadan’s background was in Architectural Engineering covering a variety of projects which included large-scale commercial, educational, residential and hospitality.

Fast forward a little and Shadan obtained a PhD in BIM in 2019. As a BIM expert, she has been working on high-profile projects such as the Houses of Parliament and HS2. Her main role is interfacing with clients and understanding their needs to deliver and implement digital strategies that would work for their organisation and requirements.  

If that wasn’t enough, Shadan is also a Senior Lecturer in Architecture and BIM alongside conducting research for many publications. Her area of expertise is in automation and digitisation, digital transformation in addition to smart BIM, helping her to identify gaps in the industry, and support clients in solving them.

List of Topics Covered

- The Evolution and Impact of BIM on the AEC Industry

- Using BIM on large-scale projects

- Digital Transformation and Smart Cities

- The Role of Automation Smart Cities

- Bridging the Gap Between Academia and Industry

Links

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028 

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/builddifferent

Further Links

https://manufacturers.thenbs.com/resources/downloads/bim-construction-product-manufacturers?utm_source=Paid+Search&utm_medium=Google&utm_campaign=BIM+Guide#gad_source=1 

https://ddcsolutions.co.uk/bim-for-large-projects/ 

https://www.bbc.com/travel/article/20240717-whats-it-like-to-live-in-the-worlds-smartest-cities-for-2024#:~:text=Now%20in%20its%20fifth%20year,%2C%20activities%2C%20opportunities%20and%20governance.

Mentioned in this episode:

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028

One fundamental question that we never seem to get around to talking about is whether AI, as commonly understood, truly exists in practical applications today. We talk a good game, but are we talking about the right game?

And even if we are, we still need to consider how this game is constructed, as any successful deployment of AI is reliant on who is using it and what already exists, the data within construction and its cleanliness and reliability and whether are we truly ready to learn how to apply these tools effectively?

For those who feel they are primed to implement AI solutions right now, it’s important we don’t just go gung-ho here and we carefully consider the practicalities, ethics and pitfalls of doing so, and we’re doing this to solve problems rather than just doing the do!

If you haven’t heard of the paperclip hypothesis, you’re in for a treat! But before we get that all of this, we’re in for a real treat as I introduce our guest today.

James Garner is an accomplished data leader in the construction industry, which all started with his university dissertation on data and digitalisation in the construction sector followed by being elected as a Fellow of RICS for his significant writing contributions to the RICS Black Book technical standards back in 2012.

In 2020, James took up the challenge of becoming Head of Insights and Analytics at Gleeds, an opportunity that allowed him to further his skillset and qualify as a data analyst in 2022, launching the company's data analytics and research capabilities.

Today, James leads Gleeds' Global Data, Insights, and Analytics department, with a focus on business intelligence, project intelligence, data literacy, and data maturity and has been elected as chair of the Project Data Analytics Taskforce as well as being nominated as one of the Top 100 People in Data 2023 by Data IQ.

And if you haven’t already, check out James's weekly newsletter and podcast called ProjectFlux, the link to which is in the show notes.

Topics Covered

- Does AI actually exist?

- Do we have enough ‘clean’ data in construction to use AI effectively?

- Learning to use AI practically (how should we do this)?

- Advice for deploying AI in construction right now

- AI and the paperclip hypothesis

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028 

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

https://linktr.ee/projectflux 

Further Links

https://theconversation.com/not-everything-we-call-ai-is-actually-artificial-intelligence-heres-what-you-need-to-know-196732

https://www.constructionenquirer.com/2024/06/10/building-safety-changes-slow-down-construction-recovery/

https://aiartists.org/unanswered-questions

https://www.google.com/search?q=ai+paperclip+theory&rlz=1C5CHFA_enGB909GB909&oq=Ai+paper+clip&gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUqCQgDEAAYChiABDIHCAAQABiABDIGCAEQRRg5MgkIAhAAGAoYgAQyCQgDEAAYChiABDIJCAQQABgKGIAEMgkIBRAAGAoYgAQyCQgGEAAYChiABDIJCAcQABgKGIAEMggICBAAGBYYHjIICAkQABgWGB7SAQg0NDk5ajBqN6gCALACAA&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8

https://adsei.org/2023/03/12/theres-no-such-thing-as-artificial-intelligence/

https://insideainews.com/2024/03/22/the-essential-role-of-clean-data-in-unleashing-the-power-of-ai/

Mentioned in this episode:

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028

With more than 30 years of entrepreneurial experience in building ventures involving enterprise software, solutions, and services, with a proven track record of envisioning, bootstrapping, scaling and creating value in start-ups in the smart building space (all acquired by Siemens, where he previously worked at the building technologies division global headquarters in Switzerland for 2 years), Anand is as thought leader on Digital Twin concepts and technologies and I’m delighted to have him here on the podcast.

You're going to be hard-pushed to find someone who can answer the key questions about digital twins, the benefits of utilising this technology and how we can overcome the challenges of knowledge and acceptance which can stifle the successful integration of technology within the industry.

This episode was recorded live at Digital Construction Week, ExCeL, London (https://www.digitalconstructionweek.com/) where I interviewed some of the best and brightest in the built environment, for a revealing look at innovation and technology.

Topics Covered

- Company and Specialism: Twinit's Journey to Pioneering Digital Twin Applications

- Transforming Construction Operations with Digital Twins

- Examples of Work: Twinit's Impact and Empowering Clients and Projects

- The Benefits of Digital Twins Aside from the Actual Build

- The Challenge of Knowledge and Acceptance Levels of Digital Twins 

- Navigating the Future of Digital Twins

- Finally, we’re here at Digital Construction Week - Give us your thoughts

Links

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028 

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Further Links

https://twinit.com/resources

https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Market-Reports/digital-twin-market-225269522.html#:~:text=The%20global%20digital%20twin%20market,61.3%25%20from%202023%20to%202028. 

https://twinit.com/resources/video/empowering-innovation-with-twinit-unleashing-the-potential-of-digital-integration-2-2-2-2-2 

https://www.ice.org.uk/news-insight/news-and-blogs/ice-blogs/the-civil-engineer-blog/digital-twins-transforming-construction-industry

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/367536430_Barriers_to_the_Adoption_of_Digital_Twin_in_the_Construction_Industry_A_Literature_Review

When Neeral started working at a high-growth tech startup the catalyst to YardLink was his involvement in digital marketplaces and seeing the power of network effects. From this point onwards Neeral knew there was a better (digital) solution to one of the construction industry’s biggest challenges with supply chains. Enter YardLink!

Even though Neeral's primary focus is YardLink and delivering the software that can reduce costs and boost profitability, there is a whole lot more to supply chain management and the benefits that come through the successful implementation of supply chain management technology, so let's take a peek at what these are shall we?

This episode was recorded live at Digital Construction Week, ExCeL, London (https://www.digitalconstructionweek.com/) where I interviewed some of the best and brightest in the built environment, for a revealing look at innovation and technology.

Topics Covered

- YardLinks Impact with Digitisation of the Supply Chain

- The importance away from the supply chain (carbon reduction, local suppliers, better business connections, margin improvements, etc)

- Opportunities to reduce costs and boost profitability

- Advice for the hesitant organisations and initial transformational steps

- What the future holds for YardLink - Staying ahead of the curve

- Finally, we’re here at Digital Construction Week - Give us your thoughts

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028 

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Further Links

https://justentrepreneurs.co.uk/meet-the-founders-interview-series/meet-neeral-shah-founder-and-ceo-of-yardlink 

https://www.statista.com/statistics/1275080/uk-software-spending-industry-construction/

https://yardlink.com/blog/what-is-digital-supply-chain-in-construction 

https://yardlink.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/yardlink-the-true-cost-of-the-supply-chain.pdf

Mentioned in this episode:

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028

From Varun's early days blending coding and 3D visualisations along with the integration of AI, Machine Learning, and other groundbreaking technologies, nCircle Tech has collaborated with over 75 software companies and successfully developed over 200 client products.

Varun has been recognised as an inventor, technologist, entrepreneur, and visionary leader in the field of 3D design and visualisation automation for more than 15 years and is now seen as a thought leader and innovator deeply involved with AI, who is driven by his passion for helping companies unlock the transformative potential of AI in the construction industry and how AI can accelerate construction processes to make them better, smarter, and faster.

I can think of no better person to discuss the details of implementing construction technology, best practices, and insights and perhaps dispel a few concerns around the integration of Machine Learning and AI.

This episode was recorded live at Digital Construction Week, ExCeL, London (https://www.digitalconstructionweek.com/) where I interviewed some of the best and brightest in the built environment, for a revealing look at innovation and technology.

Topics Covered

- Company and Specialism: What Does nCircle Look Like Right Now?

- Why it’s important to construction: Insights and Best Practices

- Biggest challenge currently facing: Concerns around Integrating ML and AI

- Examples of work: Collaborations and Client Products

- The people, the data and collaboration: Utilising AL and ML within nCircle Tech

- What the future holds within this sector/tech

- Finally, we’re here at Digital Construction Week - Give us your thoughts

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028 

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Further Links

https://ncircletech.com/blogs/the-hurdles-of-ai-development-and-implementation-in-the-aec-industry 

https://constructible.trimble.com/construction-industry/the-benefits-of-ai-in-construction

Mentioned in this episode:

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028

The vision of DiRoots is to create affordable, intelligent, and innovative digital tools that will help designers, contractors, and manufacturers disrupt and automate traditional workflows.

With over 200 successful custom digital applications under his belt, Jose has won numerous awards and recognitions for his work, crediting this success to his visionary and creative thinking, grounded in teamwork, simplicity, and excellence.

Custom digital software has the ability to transform the construction industry, but only if it's accessible and not siloed in singular organisations across the supply chain. So let's dig into this digitisation and find out how customisation is helping improve projects and streamline processes.

This episode was recorded live at Digital Construction Week, ExCeL, London (https://www.digitalconstructionweek.com/) where I interviewed some of the best and brightest in the built environment, for a revealing look at innovation and technology.

Topics Covered

- Company and Specialism: DiRoots' Evolution as an Industry Leader

- The Role of Custom Software within Construction

- Examples of Work: DiRoots' Impact on Streamlining Processes

- The Outdated Process Challenges We Must Face Head-On 

- The Future of ConTech

- Finally, we’re here at Digital Construction Week - Give us your thoughts

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028 

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Further Links

https://www.pbctoday.co.uk/news/digital-construction-news/construction-technology-news/the-importance-of-digital-transformation-in-the-construction-industry/117780/#:~:text=Many%20construction%20executives%20believe%20that,a%20challenge%20for%20their%20company. 

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/377969878_Building_Information_Modeling_BIM_Market_Size_Outlook#:~:text=Abstract,the%20Forecast%20Period%202023%2D2030.

Mentioned in this episode:

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028

With six years deeply immersed in the construction industry across Europe and the Middle East, and a decade navigating the dynamic SaaS landscapes, Kristina’s diverse background spans many disciplines including; customer success, product marketing, sales, and strategy.

Now, as a Senior Product Marketing Manager for EMEA, Kristina brings this rich blend of experiences and insight to this role.

This is a fascinating chat centred around cloud technology in construction and the innovation and growth in this sector that is to come in the future.

This episode was recorded live at Digital Construction Week, ExCeL, London (https://www.digitalconstructionweek.com/) where I interviewed some of the best and brightest in the built environment, for a revealing look at innovation and technology.

Topics Covered

- The Role of Product Marketing in Driving Adoption: Strategies for Success

- Cloud Technology in Construction: Transformation within the Industry

- Customer Success Stories: Driving Value with Autodesk's Array of Construction Products

- Market Trends and Challenges: Sustainability v Tech Energy Consumption

- Future Outlook: Innovation and Growth in Cloud Construction Technology

- Finally, we’re here at Digital Construction Week - Give us your thoughts

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028 

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Further Links

https://www.nationalgrideso.com/document/246446/download 

https://jessup.edu/blog/engineering-technology/what-is-the-future-of-cloud-computing/

Mentioned in this episode:

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028

Andy is also the Chairman of the UK’s largest construction trade federation, focusing on industry-wide improvements and has more recently been involved in integrating construction technology to further advance the sector.

In this episode, we take a look at onsite digital advancements and the impact correctly monitoring projects can have on the build, an organisation AND the industry itself.

This episode was recorded live at Digital Construction Week, ExCeL, London (https://www.digitalconstructionweek.com/) where I interviewed some of the best and brightest in the built environment, for a revealing look at innovation and technology.

Topics Covered

- Company and Specialism: Buildots' Digital Onsite Advancements

- The Importance of Data and Technology For On-Time Project Delivery

- Examples of Work: Buildots' Impact on Large-Scale Projects

- The People, the Data, and Collaboration: What Should We Be Monitoring

- The Challenge of Utilising Big Data

- Navigating the Future of Project Management and Realtime Data

- Finally, we’re here at Digital Construction Week - Give us your thoughts

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028 

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Further Links

https://buildots.com/blog/moneyball-performance-driven-construction/ 

https://www.bigrentz.com/blog/big-data-in-construction#infographic

https://www.forconstructionpros.com/business/press-release/21031884/fmi-corp-study-95-of-all-data-captured-goes-unused-in-the-ec-industry

Mentioned in this episode:

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028

He realised that the construction industry was flying blind – and decided to fix it and so in 2016, Roger founded Chime Software to solve the daily headaches he was facing at Wren. Over the past 8 years, with huge amounts of hard work, testing, building and more testing, Chime has evolved to be a key Construction software used by tens of thousands of operatives each day and saving construction businesses thousands in hours and budget.

As Roger can happily chat about how Chime has revolutionised Wren Construction (and hundreds of other companies too) for hours - or so we’ve been told. Let’s condense these ‘hours’ into a neat podcast showcasing the transformation that Roger has brought to the industry through site management technology.

This episode was recorded live at Digital Construction Week, ExCeL, London (https://www.digitalconstructionweek.com/) where I interviewed some of the best and brightest in the built environment, for a revealing look at innovation and technology.

Topics Covered

- Company and Specialism: Chime's Journey in Transforming Construction Site Management

- Reducing Delays Through Good Site Management

- Examples of Work: Chime's Successful Impact on Site Efficiency

- Convincing the Trade and Less Tech-Savvy

- Legacy Site Management Software Challenges

- What the Future Holds within this Sector/Tech

- Finally, we’re here at Digital Construction Week - Give us your thoughts

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028 

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Further Links

https://www.cornerstoneprojects.co.uk/blog/delays-in-the-construction-industry-our-2022-survey-results-and-how-they-compare-to-2016/

Mentioned in this episode:

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028

His journey began with 15 years in construction, where he embraced technology as an early adopter and now collaborates extensively with industry innovators, tech organisations, and construction companies exploring transformative technologies that promise to revolutionise working processes.

In the ever-evolving landscape of construction technology, Kris stands at the forefront, bridging the gap between innovation and practical implementation. His vision? To empower the industry, one groundbreaking solution at a time.

With all of Kris's knowledge, in this episode, we uncover what it takes to create true digital transformations.

This episode was recorded live at Digital Construction Week, ExCeL, London (https://www.digitalconstructionweek.com/) where I interviewed some of the best and brightest in the built environment, for a revealing look at innovation and technology.

Topics Covered

- Company and Specialism: Procore's Meteoric Rise

- Implementing Technology within Smaller Organisations

- Examples of Work: Procore's Positive Impact on Projects

- Leveraging Technology for Enhanced Collaboration and Decision Making

- Best Practice in Planning for Digital Transformation

- What the Future Holds within this Sector/Tech

- Finally, we’re here at Digital Construction Week - Give us your thoughts

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028 

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Further Links

https://stockanalysis.com/stocks/pcor/revenue/ 

https://www.forbes.com/sites/robertdefrancesco/2023/08/29/procore-powers-ahead-in-digitizing-the-construction-industry/?sh=2cfa4fc43cef

Mentioned in this episode:

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028

Today we’re taking a deep dive into data that elevates performance, productivity and profitability.

This episode was recorded live at Digital Construction Week, ExCeL, London (https://www.digitalconstructionweek.com/) where I interviewed some of the best and brightest in the built environment, for a revealing look at innovation and technology.

Topics Covered

- Company and Specialism: Gleeds' Digital Transformation Journey

- Why it’s Important for Construction: Unlocking the Power of Digitalisation

- Examples of Work: Digital Solutions That Drive Project Success

- Building the Right Culture Internally

- The Biggest Challenge Currently Facing: Overcoming Barriers to Digital Adoption

- Navigating the Future of Construction Technology

- Finally, we’re here at Digital Construction Week - Give us your thoughts

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028 

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Further Links

https://www.mckinsey.com/capabilities/operations/our-insights/decoding-digital-transformation-in-construction 

https://www2.deloitte.com/content/dam/Deloitte/ca/Documents/audit/ca-audit-abm-scotia-high-impact-leadership.pdf 

https://assets.ey.com/content/dam/ey-sites/ey-com/en_us/topics/real-estate-hospitality-and-construction/ey-technological-advancements-disrupting-the-global-construction-industry.pdf?download

Mentioned in this episode:

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028

For all its promise of reshaping how we design, build, and manage construction projects, the majority of us will not have used it beyond creating minimal, basic content or images that don’t quite cut it, yet. Let’s dive into the episode and explore AI’s transformative potential, challenges, and real-world applications.

Our expert to guide us through this episode is Andrew Knight, Global Leader and Tech Lead at RICS, where he’s been camped out for the past 13 years and prior to his role in leading the AI, data and tech thought leadership and analytics, Andrew managed RICS’ relationship with the finance and investment community working with debt and equity participants, their advisors in law and accountancy, and regulators. 

Andrew has also enjoyed a long career in IT starting out by running programs on mainframes using punched cards, and then working through the eras of mini-computers, personal computers, and the internet - and now the world of artificial intelligence, cloud computing, the Internet of Things (IoT) and blockchain.

In his current role, Andrew is responsible for AI, data, and tech thought leadership and content development, and the adoption of the RICS Data Standard (RDS) that supports valuation, property measurement, life-cycle costing, building performance, brokerage, and due diligence.

Topics Covered

- Integration of AI into Construction Processes

- Challenges/Risks of Implementing AI

- Building Design Innovations

- Predictive Maintenance and Asset Management

- Ethical and Regulatory Considerations

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028 

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Further Links

https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewknight3/

https://www.rics.org/news-insights/wbef/to-ai-or-not-to-ai-five-trends-in-the-adoption-of-ai-in-construction

https://www.forbes.com/uk/advisor/business/software/uk-artificial-intelligence-ai-statistics-2023/ 

https://www.maintenanceandengineering.com/2022/04/21/smart-energy-saving-with-artificial-intelligence-ai-the-building-system-management-solution/ 

https://damassets.autodesk.net/content/dam/autodesk/www/pdfs/ai-infographic-pdf.pdf

Mentioned in this episode:

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028

OK, there may be quite a few things but I’m thinking of an event that focuses on the built environment AND new technology!

Yes, I am of course talking about DCW (Digital Construction Week). 

As we are only a few days away from DCW, I’m delighted to get Ollie Hughes back on the podcast. Ollie featured in Episode 15 when discussing tech adoption within the construction industry and now he’s back on to tell us a little bit more about the event he co-founded and grew into one of the leading events for professionals within construction and technology.

Topics Covered

- Where are you up to with 1 week to go until DCW?

- What’s changed from last year?

- What are you looking forward to?

- The best way for people to get involved? (what to do when visiting)

- 2 weeks from now, what will good look like to you?

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028 

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Further Links

https://www.digitalconstructionweek.com/

https://www.builddifferent.marketing/podcast/episode/1f3f78b0/tech-adoption-connecting-the-digital-dots-episode-15-or-ollie-hughes

From understanding the Act's core principles to navigating implementation hurdles, it’s an important topic that will affect us all, whether you're a building owner, a construction industry professional, or a resident. I must admit, I don’t know it as well as I should, so we need to chat with someone to help us unpack the complexities, opportunities, and challenges of this landmark legislation.

With an ethos and positive approach to collaborative working Lorna Hagan founded ConstructTuition in 2021, providing practical skills training and advice on Quality in the Construction Industry. 

Lorna’s background in Civil Engineering brings with it 18 years of experience in site engineering and quality management systems, being a certified ISO9001 Lead auditor, and with previous work as Head of Quality, Lorna has managed an annual turnover portfolio of Civil Engineering Projects worth over £200 million.

Systematic, practical and logical in her approach, Lorna is primed to give us the lowdown on the Building Safety Act.

Topics Covered

- Overview of the Building Safety Act

- Key Provisions and Responsibilities

- Implications for Construction Industry Professionals

- Challenges and Implementation Hurdles

- Role of Technology in Building Safety Compliance

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028 

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Further Links

https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorna-hagan-cqp-7457483a/

https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2022/30/contents/enacted

https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/62f3c722e90e076cfa481c31/Building_Safety_Data_Release_July_2022.pdf 

https://www.thefpa.co.uk/news/hse-high-rise-residents-research-shows-fire-safety-knowledge-gaps 

https://www.thenbs.com/about-nbs/press-releases/nearly-half-of-construction-professionals-%E2%80%98unsure-of-building-safety-laws

Mentioned in this episode:

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028

Done right, exhibitions can serve as powerful platforms for networking, brand exposure, and knowledge sharing. These opportunities not only facilitate connections with industry peers and potential clients but also offer a stage to showcase innovative solutions and stay abreast of emerging trends.

However, harnessing the full potential of these events requires more than just showing up—it demands strategic planning, thoughtful budget allocation, and meticulous execution. No wonder navigating the intricacies of event management and budgeting can be daunting.

As we’ve mentioned, the financial investment associated with these events alone necessitates a keen focus on maximising impact while minimising the additional costs that can soon make an estimated budget look like pocket change compared to the overall cost.

Additional elements such as marketing materials, travel expenses, and staff resources as well as exhibition space and stand design and builds need to translate into tangible returns, whether in the form of leads generated, partnerships, or brand recognition (side note - make sure you quantify what a good return looks like before investing a penny as it doesn’t always mean leads)!

The challenge of optimising event budgets and quantifying their impact is one that resonates with most who have been put in charge of project managing the whole thing. It's a tricky conundrum that requires careful consideration of various factors, from selecting the right events to attend to crafting compelling messaging and experiences that resonate with your target audience.

So, how can we ensure that we're making the most of our event budgets? How can we stand out in a crowded marketplace and leave a lasting impression, reach our goals and exceed all expectations?

These are the questions we'll explore in today's episode where we'll delve into four actionable tactics designed to help you maximise your budget and amplify your impact at events.

Let's dive in and uncover the secrets to unlocking the full potential of your event budget.

Topics Covered 

- Map out your calendar of construction industry events

- Elevating your expertise 

- Planning for deeper engagement 

- Extending your reach 

- Strength in numbers 

- The end of the event ISN’T the end of the event

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028 

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Further Links

https://www.builddifferent.marketing/post/4-ways-to-maximise-your-budget-and-impact-at-construction-events

https://www.builddifferent.marketing/post/2-wenty-ways-to-collaborate-that-benefit-you-and-the-rest-of-the-construction-industry

https://www.builddifferent.marketing/podcast/episode/1fabcb3b/collaborative-working-in-construction-episode-28-or-peter-sumpton

Mentioned in this episode:

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028

For anyone who doesn't know what UKCW is all about, it’s the biggest exhibition within the UK construction space in the UK -  a hub of innovation, collaboration, and industry insights as well as event sponsors and paying exhibitors gaining great exposure from being part of it. With thousands of exhibitors, seminars, and networking opportunities, it's a great platform for staying ahead of the curve in our ever-evolving field.

So, why are we dedicating an entire episode to previewing UKCW 2024? Well, there's a lot to cover. From the latest technologies shaping the future of construction to initiatives and legislations driving change within the industry. Need to knows, must knows, who knows!

Well hopefully we all do after this episode.

From the seminars not to be missed to exhibitors that are worth a visit, I’ll be giving you an unbiased run-through of UK Construction Week 2024… That’s enough introing, time to get stuck into the details.

Topics Covered 

-  What's new for UKCW 24

- Exhibitors not to be missed

- Seminar and talks selection

- Who’s worth listening to?

- Product demos

- A few unknowns to think about

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028 

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Further Links

https://www.ukconstructionweek.com/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCi0WMMtVLdtX4sZ4Eu6vaQw

Mentioned in this episode:

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028

And that’s where we’ll pause these yet-to-be-realised predictions and focus on the now and possibly the most advanced piece of kit we’ve ever featured on Construction Disrupted – Exoskeleton technology and while innovations like this may not be picking up any Academy Awards real soon, they are helping to transform the way we work and what is and might be possible in the future.

But I’m not here to tell these tales, we need an expert in this field who can write the script and deliver a best seller.

Meghan Kennelly, the Head of Global Marketing at German Bionic, a European robotics company, is a B2B Marketing expert with an innate passion for cutting-edge technology. 

Meghan’s visionary leadership has led to German Bionic gaining international recognition and numerous awards for its portfolio of smart power suits and wearable technologies which includes connected exoskeletons driven by self-learning and artificial intelligence.

Topics Covered 

- The specifics behind exoskeleton technology

- Is this a skills shortage saviour?

- How exoskeletons can help reduce injuries in the workplace

- Ergonomic data reshaping workplace safety

- Is there an ROI for everyone?

- AI tech and how this impacts future markets 

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028 

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Further Links

https://empathyfirm.com/Meghan-Kennelly/ 

https://www.firstmats.co.uk/blogs/facts-and-statistics/construction-industry-safety-statistics-executive-summary#:~:text=10.-,Around%202.6%20Million%20Working%20Days%20Lost%20Annually,%2Drelated%20illness%20(80%25).

https://www.nesfircroft.com/resources/blog/how-can-we-solve-the-construction-industry-skills-shortage-in-the-uk-/#:~:text=The%20recession%20expected%20in%202023,output%20in%202023%20and%20beyond.

https://amtrustfinancial.com/blog/loss-control/exoskeleton-and-exosuits-in-the-workplace

https://costcharts.com/exoskeleton/

Mentioned in this episode:

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028

In an industry where precision and collaboration are paramount, the integration of sales and marketing functions holds the potential to be a game-changer. Yet, despite their inherent alignment towards common goals, these two pillars of business strategy often operate in silos within construction, missing out on the powerful impact they could achieve together.

Think about it: marketing lays the groundwork, crafting compelling narratives, and creating brand visibility, opening doors, while sales is on the front line, nurturing relationships and closing deals. When these forces unite seamlessly, the result is a formidable alliance that not only drives revenue but also fosters long-term growth and sustainability.

So why does this powerful combination remain elusive to many, especially within the construction industry? How can we reduce the possibility of failure and look to almost certain success?

Throughout this episode, we'll walk through the answers to these questions, exploring the nuances of sales-marketing integration within the unique landscape of construction. From cultural shifts to technological innovations, we'll examine the factors shaping this paradigm and uncover actionable insights that can empower us to succeed in today's competitive marketplace. But who is our guiding light here?

Andy Hamer is the Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Gorilla Team Associates, specialising in fractional sales and marketing for B2B tech firms and startups, spanning hardware, networking, services, and SaaS, shaping innovative go-to-market strategies, addressing the needs of emerging startups and global corporations.

Throughout an expansive 40-year career, Andy has secured esteemed senior management and board positions in renowned firms, including Marconi, Strategic Analytics, Equant, Informa, Wongs Electronics, and Bentley Systems.

More recently, he’s delved into Architecture, Engineering and Construction, working at senior and board levels at institutions like Codebook, XYZ Reality, and Archdesk.

Andy has a BA (Hons) in Marketing Engineering, is a certified BIM Information Manager and authored a book on structured data management in BIM as well be achieving the status; Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Marketing (FCIM).

Topics Covered

- Getting market-ready

- The terminology trap

- How can we reduce the chance of failure?

- Why it should always be sales AND marketing

- #1 myth in marketing (I’ll let you decide this one)

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028 

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Further Links

https://www.pbctoday.co.uk/news/planning-construction-news/5919-construction-companies-in-the-uk-close-to-failure/134221/ 

https://blog.hubspot.com/marketing/inbound-marketing-glossary-list

It’s easy to forget the peripheral, the support functions, the necessary ones that will help achieve this end goal but will not be around to share in the glory. Take temporary works, for example, a critical lynchpin in any construction project and one that keeps us all safe and supported in the right areas at the right time. 

But how safe and supported will we be going forward with more manual and traditional methods of design and implementation still being used? We’re about to find out.

Ste Baldwin has worked in the world of marketing for over 15 years including Education, Recruitment, Accountancy, Wholesale and Construction and Engineering, 6 of which have been as Head of Marketing and Comms within the Temporary Works sector of the construction industry prior to transferring to his current role as Category Marketing Manager - Below Ground at Mabey Hire he has spent the last 6 years within the engineering and service excellence space of temporary works.

Topics Covered

- Traditional methods of temporary works project design.

- Introducing to EVE.

- Is it worth a client's investment vs traditional methods?

- Transition from on-screen to on-site.

- Using VR.

- Future of technology within the temporary works industry.

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028 

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Further Links

https://www.mabeyhire.co.uk/technical-hub

https://www.mabeyhire.co.uk/about-us/eve

Mentioned in this episode:

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028

This software also does the improbable and starts to integrate the supply chain, converting seemingly unrelated sources of data into coherent and interactive visualisations assisting architects with conceptual visualisations, project managers who strive for better insights and contractors aiming to optimise operations.

But this is only the case if we have the skills and abilities to use this type of software at our disposal. So do we? And if we do, is Power BI the one and only platform that can help us achieve greater integration and collaboration at a digital level, empowering decision-makers to navigate the complexities of construction projects with clarity and confidence?

We need to chat with someone who will help us uncover the insights and best practices that can propel construction towards greater efficiency, productivity, and ultimately, success.

Samuel Arsenault-Brassard, Head of Product at VIM AEC, is an authority in BIM data analysis and PowerBI auditing. A dynamic force in architectural innovation and digital artistry, he has carved a niche in blending physical and virtual realms.

As a BIM expert, his work spans from the practical aspects of architectural technology to the creative arenas of lighting design and XR art. 

In the realm of digital art, he is a recognised XR artist and curator, with works displayed at various galleries and his presentations on topics like Metaverse architecture, coupled with his art shows, illustrates his commitment to exploring and shaping the intersection of technology, art, and architecture.

Topics Covered

- The importance of managing and utilising data.

- Power BI and VIM.

- Visualisation, analysis, output, etc (what does good look like)?

- Do we need to up-skill to maximise the success of these tools?

- Space for all system-integrated software or do we need a unified approach?

- AI, Metaverse and the future.

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028 

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Further Links

www.vimaec.com 

https://cloud.vimaec.com (Cloud Service)

https://www.asite.com/blogs/what-is-the-most-important-data-to-track-on-construction-projects 

https://www.pbctoday.co.uk/news/digital-construction-news/customisation-culture-holds-back-digital-maturity-in-construction/132342/

https://www.citb.co.uk/media/dfuom4ma/ai_and_automation_report.pdf

https://mkt-cdn.procore.com/downloads/ebooks/ConstructionSoftwareManagementBuyersGuide_UK.pdf

Mentioned in this episode:

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028

Well, let’s try something different this week and go with a topic I know very little about, even though we touched upon it in episode 25, Capturing Reality with Derek Lawrence. This week we’re looking into the world of Geospatial Solutions and whether it’s just for the big ass projects we're accustomed to hearing about via our fav construction media (aside from the podcast of course) or if there’s wider scope here, where this type of technology is accessible and affordable for most and usable on projects both large and small. 

Now I’m being slightly flippant in that most (and I’m including myself in this ‘most’) have heard of the likes of Google Earth and projects such as Earth 2, which could be categorised within the Geospatial sphere, but from a construction perspective, these don’t offer the sector-specific solutions we need within construction. To put it simply, we need to chat with someone who knows what they are talking about!

Stuart Gilling is the Managing Director of Malcolm Hughes, geospatial consultants specialising in the capture and processing of measured data in all environments. Stuart also bares the title of MRICS Chartered Surveyor - Geospatial solutions and consulting - RICS Registered Expert Witness specialising in boundary dispute resolution.

Prior to this, Stuart initially managed the CAD production team and was instrumental in the adoption of BIM across the business and the adoption of UAV (drone) services. With 17 years’ experience in the geospatial profession, he also completed a Management and Logistics degree followed by a Masters in Business Administration, becoming a member of the Chartered Institute of Civil Engineering Surveyors in 2006!

Topics Covered

- What is Geospatial Analysis?

- The tech behind it - What do you need to get started vs detailed large-scale projects.

- PUMA128 (PAS128 Utility Mapping Accreditation)

- Potential commoditisation of the industry v bespoke solutions.

- Growth Opportunities.

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028 

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Further Links

Mentioned in this episode:

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028

Bad eating habits are just one way to get yourself into ill health, but not the only way. 

We could all reel off the things that are good for us and those that are classed as bad, from food to the amount you sleep, the exercise you do, what you drink, the content you consume and even the company you keep. There is one factor that doesn’t roll off the tongue however, I’m taking out our environment and the buildings we utilise for work, rest or play. 

We spend around 90% of our time indoors and even when we’re outside this can be made up of commuting, taxiing or doing general life administration such as shopping. Even then we’re still within an environment we’ve created, there is simply no getting away from it. Yet we pay little attention to how this may be impacting our health and wellbeing. 

It’s about time we did, so, fortunately, our guest today knows just how much the built environment can affect our health.

Will Stewart is a WELL Accredited Professional (AP) and Chartered Commercial Property Surveyor working as a Health and Well-Being Consultant at Ekkist.

Will previously worked in property investment and development for 6 years, has an MSc from the Bartlett School of Sustainable Construction and now specialises in advising developers as well as contributing to a RICS document on how to create places which positively impact the health and well-being of the occupants.

Currently, Will is advising on the implementation of a health and well-being strategy on market-leading office spaces across London as well as managing a WELL standard application for several London Co-living schemes. 

Topics Covered

- What is a Health and Wellbeing Consultant?

- The impact our built environment has on our health.

- The key aspects of a healthy building.

- 'The Design, Delivery and Management of Healthy Buildings’ guide; its importance and main takeaways.

- Ensuring buildings are healthy through certifications.

- Looking at the future of healthy buildings.

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028 

Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

Further Links

https://www.opinium.com/brits-spend-90-of-their-time-indoors/ 

https://group.legalandgeneral.com/en/inclusive-capitalism/future-proofing-society/levelling-up-through-health-and-housing

https://9foundations.forhealth.org/

https://www.rics.org/profession-standards/rics-standards-and-guidance/sector-standards/real-estate-standards/the-design-delivery-management-of-healthy-buildings-1st-edition

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/green-building-materials-market-expected-/ 

https://www.ted.com/talks/kamal_meattle_how_to_grow_fresh_air?language=en

Mentioned in this episode:

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial

Adobe Express 30-day Free Trial: https://prf.hn/l/ZYdd028

In today's fast-paced and interconnected business landscape, a well-coordinated marketing approach is essential for success in the UK construction industry.

An integrated marketing plan brings together various tactics to create a harmonious and impactful brand presence, but most start-ups, founders, SMEs and even larger organisations can find it hard to rationalise the time it takes to create a successful marketing plan.

Crazy I know!

By following these steps, you will create a basic marketing plan that will enable you to streamline your efforts, enhance brand visibility, increase sales activation and create a compelling narrative that resonates with your target audience - sounds a lot I know, but if you’re starting from scratch developing this plan will help to achieve these fundamentals for business success, short and long-term.

Note: Things that this guide doesn’t cover where the presumption is these are already in place or will be. If any of these aren’t yet sorted it’s best to get clarity prior to mapping out your next marketing plan:

1 Budget confirmed/understood

2 Analysis of any marketing plan output

3 Resources and capabilities are available

4 A level of marketing competency for understanding basic principles and theory

There is a bank of blank templates at the back of this ebook that will help you complete each stage of this plan. We’re the gift that keeps on giving right?

Probably want to know what these steps are right?

Topics Covered

Step 1: Diagnosis - Understanding The Landscape

Step 2: Strategy - Crafting a Unified Vision

Step 3: Tactics - Executing Your Plan

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Website: https://www.builddifferent.marketing/

3 Step Marketing Plan Template Link

https://www.builddifferent.marketing/post/3-steps-to-implementing-a-basic-integrated-marketing-plan

Mentioned in this episode:

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Regardless of budget, you can still make your marketing work for you, as long as you are realistic with your expectations. Entering the market on a small budget and expecting to achieve the reach of a tech giant will only lead to disappointment. But this doesn’t mean you can’t achieve realistic goals to your size and scale. You just need to work that little bit harder at the start to understand your market, and the most efficient channels and of course, be creative.

One company that does this particularly well and you could say has been bootstrapping their marketing since they started is SymTerra (I’ve mentioned them before on the podcast as they are currently one of my favs when discussing tech within construction). I’m also a fan of how they go about their marketing. Everyone seems to get stuck into it.

It’s fun, engaging, doesn’t take itself too seriously, always has a CTA (call to action) and is so typically them - from Dinosaurs at events to using Chat GPT to create fictional rage on a construction site, their marketing is simple, but is it effective? The only way to find out is to look internally and who better to talk us through this than Garrett Chamberlain, Operations Manager who was behind one post that generated 8.9 million views and half a million likes on a YouTube short - but this kind of virality doesn’t equal success or does it?

Since launching in March 2021, SymTerra has built a client portfolio that includes £5bn worth of construction and infrastructure projects for Thames Water, to Transport for London and closed its $1.7million seed investment round in 2022.

Garrett’s background is unique transitioning from Traffic Marshal to entrepreneur, swapping construction sites for websites. Throughout this journey, Garrett has gained hands-on experience, honing his skills in Health, Safety, Quality, and Environmental management, but instead of taking a cushy little number he decided to make a move and joined SymTerra as a Founding Team member and Operations Manager, bringing his expertise and unique perspective to the tech industry.

Topics Covered

- How does a H&S advisor find his way into (in my opinion) one of the most exciting tech start-ups in construction?

- Convincing those above AND those on the ground (plus supply chain)

- Challenges around integration with other technologies and keeping up with the pace of change

- We chat about SymTerra's marketing output :)

- Making the practical, unglamorous tech look (sexy) appealing

- How much is it about the people behind the tech?

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