SPEAKER INTERVIEW: HERBERT FUCHS

Herbert Fuchs will be speaking at the Future Tech Construction Summit during The Big 5 in November. Herbert is the Chief Information Officer at ASGC, he will be part of the panel discussion on "Technology as a catalyst for disruption: Transforming the construction process with tech innovations"

In your opinion how is technology changing the future of the construction industry?

Technology has a significant role to play in the transformation of the construction industry. While other industries are charging ahead quickly with innovation, the construction industry has been long overdue for a technological overhaul. Digital will change many business models in the industry while driving down cost, increasing productivity of labour and staff as well as improving utilization of assets and equipment at a high degree. And ASGC believes that early adoption of the latest breakthrough technology solutions is a crucial component of achieving our vision of remaining at the forefront of the industry.

Our approach is to integrate digital into each phase of our business and operations. The inclusion of these advanced alternatives to traditional methods are in line with our strategy to be a technology-driven company integrating technology into our construction projects to make the best use of our talent, assets and equipment.

What is the emerging technology in construction?

The technologies that are set to transform the construction industry echo those that are making an impact across all sectors at present, such as the Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), 3D scanning and printing, and so on. We can already see 3D printing put to use in construction – Dubai has the world’s first functional 3D printed building. ASGC uses 3D scanning, Building Information Modelling (BIM), and drone technology to augment the work that we do on our construction sites. More than 85 per cent of our projects are being monitored by drone technology. Also, ASGC uses BIM, which helps to solve whatever obstructions may come up in the coordination with the MEP subcontractors, or specialist subcontractors. We are also amidst the work of new technologies impacting processes and productivity.

In your opinion how important are startups where technology in construction industry is concerned?

Startups are very important, as they have a pivotal role to play in the digitization of an industry that is in need of a technological shake-up. Disruption is happening all around us, in every industry, but the construction sector does not seem to be progressing as quickly even if we can see increased digitization in our industry in countries such as the United States. Startups with a focus on developing new tech-based solutions for the construction industry are therefore not only important, but vital – creative ideas and innovative approaches have the potential to change the industry for the better.

What transformational initiatives do mega construction companies need in order to embrace the latest technological trends in their industry?

The biggest hurdle to overcome isn’t technology or a lack of ideas and innovation; the challenges are within the companies themselves. By nature, construction companies have significant investments in employees, equipment and so on, therefore there is, to a degree, a fear of change, a sense of traditionalism that must be addressed, a fear of job loss and a consideration of initial investments in the face of tight profit margins. My belief is that companies must take calculated risks in order to adopt a technology-savvy approach to business that is in keeping with the digitalised world we are competing in. Changing culture may not be easy, but it is essential to keep abreast of changing times.

What will be the key take away by the audience attending your talk?

My aim is to confirm to attendees that change is happening in the industry, to provide them with an understanding of what those changes are, and to emphasize that it takes a clear vision, executive ownership, funding and a mandate to drive change in order to realize transformation in line with the evolving environment.

About Herbert Fuchs -

Herbert is the CIO of ASGC, one of the most successful and dynamic players in the Middle East construction and engineering business.

Herbert was hired by ASGC in 2017 with the mission to help shape and play a pivotal role in ASGC’s digital transformation journey. Digital and disruptive technologies are integral components and differentiators in ASGC’s vision and strategy.

Herbert’s professional career over the past 25 years was with global players across various industries where he had the opportunity of being instrumental in significant transformation and optimization initiatives. Throughout his career, Herbert has established himself as an innovator and though leader across the “build”, “run” and the “transform” spectrum of IT.

Herbert holds an MSc in Information Security as well as an Executive MBA in Information and Communication Technology.

You can hear more from Herbert Fuchs on "Technology as a catalyst for disruption: Transforming the construction process with tech innovations" at the Future Tech Construction Summit on 26th November, 15:20 - 16:00.