3 Best Practices We’ve Seen from Top AEC Firms

Large AEC firms are often among the first to adopt leading edge practices. They’re enabled by robust budgets, large teams and a drive to differentiate themselves.

Here are three best practices that top AEC firms use to enhance project delivery as well as attract and retain first-rate talent.

1. Investing in Technology to Improve Business Processes

There are many new technologies that are changing the face of the industry. Larger firms have been the first to adopt them on a broad scale.

Automation and sensor technologies offer more accurate information about building performance. Drones and robotics help enhance 3D mapping and surveying. Building Information Modeling (BIM) and 4D planning technology (i.e., 3D plus time) shorten project duration, boost quality and boost productivity. AEC firms like EMG automate strategic planning, asset management, capital deployment and portfolio performance. These technologies improve processes both internally and for clients.

2. Emphasizing Employee Engagement to Attract Top Candidates

To attract top talent, major firms like Stantec must separate themselves from their competitors. They understand the need to cultivate a strong employer brand. And they’ve dedicated resources to support this.

Large AEC firms have a variety of programs in place to draw and keep top talent. Formalized professional development programs and transparent career paths help meet these objectives. It’s also important to have in-house development programs. And potential staff will appreciate support for continuing education and training.

3. Enabling Knowledge Sharing Throughout AEC Firms

Large AEC firms recognize that effective collaboration across locations is a key to their success. As a result, they’ve set up robust work sharing mechanisms. Global EPC firm Black & Veatch is beta testing a Virtual Desktop Environment. This allows professionals to work together in real-time regardless of location.

Improving processes keeps AEC firms moving forward. These upgrades result in a long-term value relationship instead of a project-based client portfolio.
No matter the size of your AEC firm, the practices of industry leaders provide valuable insights and opportunities. Look to implement any of their practices to enhance your service offering, and your firm will enjoy an improved ROI.

Improving processes keeps AEC firms moving forward. These upgrades result in a long-term value relationship instead of a project-based client portfolio.

No matter the size of your AEC firm, the practices of industry leaders provide valuable insights and opportunities. Look to implement any of their practices to enhance your service offering, and your firm will enjoy an improved ROI.

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