Is the construction industry not moving forward?
The foundation of the construction industry is “buildings” and “infrastructure.”
There are homes where people live, as well as facilities that generate profit. There is also the infrastructure that connects them in various ways. Building these is the mission of the construction industry, and they are essential for human life.
That is why the industry has a history spanning thousands of years. Techniques and philosophies that have been passed down through the generations—there is no doubt that these have given rise to the industry’s guiding principles and sense of pride, and serve as the driving force behind the construction industry.
However...
We are now entering a time of major upheaval. Attitudes toward buildings and infrastructure are changing dramatically, and the way we work and connect with one another is also evolving.
It seems to me that we’re entering a phase where technologies and construction methods are changing so drastically that they’re becoming unrecognizable. 3D printers are a good example of this.
Industries that are still in their early stages are adapting their business models to keep pace with the times, and new technologies are being developed. The concept of “diversification” has taken root, and a “new normal” is rapidly emerging.
In times like these, what about the construction industry?
In fact, the tools and materials used by craftsmen are changing. I feel like we’re making progress, bit by bit.
In addition, research institutions—including major ones—are also trying to develop new technologies by making full use of technology, and we occasionally hear news about their efforts.
Even so, it doesn't really feel like we're making any progress, does it?
I think the reason for this is that small and medium-sized construction companies have a different mindset. The reality is that so-called “local” companies are finding it difficult to take that first step.
The construction industry is a ”team effort”
"You know, in the construction industry, we've always done things this way."
"The construction industry has to dig up the ground, so there's no need for digitalization."
In fact, it’s not uncommon to find companies that have only one computer and handle paperwork via fax—and even write their quotes by hand.
Of course, as long as it’s a functioning business, there’s no need for others to say anything about it. After all, it’s a business that contributes to society and provides a livelihood for its employees.
However, I believe the construction industry is a team effort.
Even if others want to move forward, if someone is holding them back, they have no choice but to go along with it.In other words, no matter how hard you try, you end up in a situation where you simply can’t move forward.
That's what they say.
"Digitalization? There's no way we could ever do that. We can't even use a smartphone."
"Even if I try something new, it'll be just the same as before anyway."
"If you're going to do it, you have to give it your all; just dabbling in it won't work anyway."
What's the name of this problem in the construction industry?
Anyway, anyway, anyway...
That's right—the construction industry is currently suffering from "Dousemuri Syndrome."
I feel that there is such a huge gap between the work I’m currently doing and the cutting-edge technologies reported in the media that I’ve come to believe “IT = difficult.”
In the end, they don’t take on challenges, and they don’t learn anything. That’s how the situation feels to me. As a result, young people are turning away, and the industry is becoming one that they no longer want to be a part of.
When it comes to local crafts, that might be just fine. After all, change isn’t necessarily the right thing. Tradition is important, and our mission is to pass on techniques that remain unchanged.
But the construction industry is different. It is an industry that supports people’s lives, and one that must continue to grow with the times.
After all, if people are asking, “What is 5G?” then those base stations can’t be built. This just goes to show that the construction industry must always keep pace with the times.
Digitization isn’t actually that difficult. The moment you scan a paper document, it’s digitized. The moment you send an email to someone, it’s digitized.
And all technology lies along that same continuum. It’s not an entirely new “concept.” It’s the result of pursuing the idea of making things more convenient, and at its core, whether it’s digital or analog, it ultimately amounts to the same thing.
Let's try to take just a little interest. Let's try to learn just a little. Let's try to take on just a little challenge.
