Construction Law

Updating Your Construction Firm’s IT Infrastructure Part 2 featured image

Updating Your Construction Firm’s IT Infrastructure Part 2

In part one of this two-part series, the Jacksonville construction attorneys at Cotney Attorneys & Consultants discussed the importance of updating your construction firm’s information technology (IT) infrastructure to keep up with an industry in flux. We started by discussing the importance of investing in the latest software for recordkeeping and time tracking. Additionally, we discussed the role of technology in maintaining flexible work arrangements to bolster productivity on complex projects. Now, we will continue to detail IT-related improvements that can help contractors increase productivity and boost profits without altering their on-site procedures.

Moving Information to the Cloud

One way to increase the security of your firm’s information while simultaneously streamlining access is by migrating your information from an in-house server to a cloud-based hosting service. For one, nobody can steal your cloud, since it has no physical form like a server. Someone could literally walk into your office and take your server with them if they had the inclination to do so. Second, it can help you save on costs associated with purchasing and maintaining software and server upkeep. And finally, cloud disaster recovery means your files will be backed up so you can restore them if needed.

Cutting-Edge Communication

Contractors are constantly working with subcontractors and suppliers to ensure that their projects are moving along according to schedule. Meeting milestones can be difficult without constant communication between the parties involved on a project. Unfortunately, calling and leaving voicemails isn’t the best way to communicate anymore. When you communicate with others on a project, you want to make sure there’s a digital trail to confirm that the information was conveyed to bolster accountability. Messaging applications like Slack and Hangouts not only get the message to the correct person, but they also leave a record of every message sent. In other words, these applications eliminate scapegoats and ensure that various parties are responsible. Plus, as an employer, you can review these messages to make sure they are being utilized for work-appropriate communications.

Intelligent Integration

Your construction firm should be operating like a well-oiled machine both on and off the project site. That said, you don’t want to completely overhaul your IT efforts in one fell swoop, otherwise you could find yourself dealing with an unnecessary breakdown in your workflow. Integrate new technology deliberately and consult an expert as you do so. Furthermore, partner with a Jacksonville construction attorney to reaffirm that your new processes aren’t opening you up to any legal concerns. Once you embrace the intelligent integration of new technology, you may find your firm reaching all new heights.

If you would like to speak with a Jacksonville construction attorney, please contact us today.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.