A strategy to maximize productivity
According to Statistics Canada, labor productivity in Quebec is 8.2% lower compared to Ontario and 11.4% below the Canadian average. Reducing waste, standardizing processes, and integrating technology more deeply to optimize collaborative workflow are among the most effective methods to improve productivity and offset labor shortages. This approach is known as ‘Lean Construction’, a detailed strategy outlined below:
Lean Construction
This approach focuses primarily on creating value for the client through waste reduction. It allows organizations to challenge their methods by employing more appropriate techniques to identify areas where efficiency can be gained and processes can be made more effective.
To implement this strategy, it’s essential to train and raise awareness among our teams and all other stakeholders about the importance and effectiveness of waste reduction. By encouraging collaboration among all involved parties, we ensure stronger coordination and decision-making, ultimately leading to faster project delivery at lower costs.
Last year, Cactusoft Construction worked with the Symbiose Laval team to discuss waste reduction in the construction industry. Their Director of Sustainable Development, Jean-Sébastien Trudel, states that “reducing waste on construction sites is a well-known challenge. To better understand the issues, Symbiose Laval brought together over thirty companies involved at all stages of building construction, from design to end of life.
Numerous obstacles—most of them already known—were quickly identified. The surprise was to observe the fifty ideas and solutions that emerged from the meeting. Most did not require regulatory changes or an unrealistic budget increase. They mainly required better communication between industry players and even worker training. This meeting resulted in a commitment to achieve ‘zero waste by 2040,’ which has already led to identifying synergies between companies, testing circular economy practices on construction sites, developing a material library, conducting R&D with orphan materials (including flooring and garage doors), and upcycling objects in demolition projects” (Jean-Sébastien Trudel, M. Env. Director of Sustainable Development, CCILaval).
This highlights the possibility for most construction companies to adopt Lean construction at certain levels without having to change all their practices overnight.
Tools and Technological Innovations
Technological innovations impact all products, services, and processes, offering opportunities for optimization and improvement in areas such as production speed, environmental compliance, and worksite safety in construction projects.
Various programs enable companies to embark on their technological journey through audits, but many lack the time, resources, and knowledge to proceed effectively. Although they require learning and adaptation from all users, technologies accelerate momentum and support operations. Of course, these should be selected based on their relevance and potential to meet the company’s needs.
As technology evolves rapidly, integrations of new tools and processes should align with long-term vision rather than short-term gains. Therefore, starting now is crucial, as current delays could become serious obstacles in the future.
The Impact of Technological Advances on Quebec’s Construction Sector
In parallel with ongoing recruitment efforts, the government should explore potential productivity gains from innovative strategies to address labor shortages. A recent study by the ACQ highlighted that digital transformation in construction could increase industry productivity by 14% to 15%. Together, there are certainly ways to improve Quebec’s statistics!
Sources: Catherine Guay, Innovation Columnist, ACQ website, April 2nd 2024, Communauté de pratique innovation construction, Builthink Consultants, Jean-Sébastien Trudel M. Env. (Symbiose Laval)
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