I know that word revolution is way overused and has become more name brand than descriptor of change. But I can't resist. Revolution is what we need in our industry. Over the years we've been given a pass because many of the construction clients we serve are reluctant to make the technology plunge.
Every generation needs a revolution. — Thomas Jefferson
Our revolution is wrapped around technology. Traveling throughout the country, I've heard the stories and seen first hand how far behind some construction companies have become. Many of them are defiant in sticking with systems that have worked for years. Then there's the other side. Many construction companies are making the plunge and the tipping point for the rest of the industry is not far behind.
For tech companies, this has always created a barrier into the industry. The good ole boys like my family, working with their hands and gang boxes has no real need to infuse any 'process management tools' or 'cost & risk management' software. It was a waste of time and ended up costing more than it was worth... — Tanner Bechtel, ReproMAX.
I've heard many fortunetellers point to the manufacturing industry's 20% allocation on I.T. infrastructure/technology in comparison to the construction industry's measly 2%, as a sign of things to come. Obviously, because we follow our customers, many reprographers are not far behind. The question is, can we be enough ahead to ride the wave when it tips, while maintaining profitable companies that don't over-invest in services our customers aren't ready for.