Hard Hats & Hi Tech Video Podcast

In this episode, our host Bernardita Calzon, sits down with Graeme Braybrooke, an experienced quantity surveyor with over 14 years’ experience, including time spent in some of the world’s most dynamic construction markets like Dubai, Qatar, and South Africa. Currently based in the UK, Graeme leads a team of consultants at RIB Software, where he shares his expertise in cost management and digital transformation.

Join us as Graeme explores the critical role of cost management in construction projects and breaks down the key components of a successful strategy—from comprehensive estimates and budget development to risk management and financial forecasting. He also shares insights into the biggest challenges facing the industry, including economic uncertainties and the integration of advanced technologies like real-time data and BIM.

What you’ll learn:

• Understand how effective cost management impacts the profitability and success of construction projects
• Learn the essentials of comprehensive estimates, budget development, risk management, and change tracking
• Explore how socioeconomic factors, uncontrolled changes, and procurement issues create hurdles in cost management
• Discover how tools like real-time data, BIM, and digital workflows are transforming cost management and decision-making
• Gain insights into the most critical metrics for cost management, including cost value reconciliation, resource utilization, and schedule performance
• Hear practical advice on managing unexpected costs without sacrificing quality through better planning, design, and learning from past mistakes.

In this episode of RIB’s construction technology podcast, Bernardita Calzon chats to Wolfgang Müller, a seasoned expert with over 40 years of experience in construction information technology and a pioneer of AI for construction. Wolfgang shares his fascinating journey, including his work on a groundbreaking proof of concept for AI in construction for the German government.

Join us as Wolfgang explores the current applications of AI in construction, from logistics and sensor data analysis to text generation for specifications and contracts. He also dispels common misconceptions about AI, emphasizing its role as a powerful assistant rather than a replacement for human expertise.

What you’ll learn:

• Understand how AI is being used today in construction logistics, sensor data analysis, and text generation
• Learn why AI is an assistant rather than a replacement and how it complements human expertise
• Discover how AI can make risks more transparent and improves project quality
• Explore how AI helps track and reduce carbon footprints
• Get practical advice on cleaning and structuring data to maximize AI’s effectiveness
• Understand the importance of ongoing decision-making processes for data sharing within and outside organizations
• Gain insights into how AI will shape risk assessment, decision support, and quality control over the next decade.

In this video podcast episode, Bernardita chats with Amirul Izzat, Senior Cost Consultant at RIB Software, about the transformative role of technology and innovation in the construction industry. With over 15 years of experience, Amirul provides a fascinating overview of key trends reshaping the field and offers actionable insights for overcoming challenges in technology adoption.

Learn about how innovative tools Building Information Modeling (BIM), artificial intelligence (AI), and automation are driving efficiency, sustainability, and collaboration. Amirul also shares some strategies for managing the challenges of resistance to change, skill gaps, and data security concerns.

What you’ll learn:

• Explore how BIM, AI, drones, prefabrication, and automation are revolutionizing construction workflows and improving project outcomes
• Discover how AI helps predict risks, optimize resource use, and enhance decision-making
• Understand the hurdles of resistance to change, skill gaps, and data security
• See how automation is cutting down repetitive tasks, improving precision, and freeing up managers to focus on strategic priorities
• Learn how tools like BIM, AI, and 3D printing contribute to greener construction practices and more eco-friendly projects.
• Explore advancements like AR/VR, digital twins, and smart building systems.

In this episode of Hard Hats and Hi-Tech, RIB Software’s construction podcast series, host Bernardita Calzon welcomes Jatin Sharma, Senior Manager for Customer Success at RIB Software. Jatin brings nearly a decade of experience driving digital transformation in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry across the Asia-Pacific region. From his office in Brisbane, Australia, Jatin shares his passion for bridging generational gaps and fostering collaboration to revolutionize the construction sector.

Tune in as Jatin unpacks the pivotal role of seasoned professionals, the tech-savvy younger generation, and innovative technology companies in driving digital adoption. Using engaging analogies and real-world examples, Jatin explores how trust, mentorship, and collaboration can overcome resistance to change and transform construction practices.

What you’ll learn:

• How seasoned professionals’ expertise is crucial for practical problem-solving and adapting innovative technologies on-site
• Understand how digital fluency and fresh perspectives from younger professionals are reshaping construction practices
• Discover the importance of cross-mentorship and trust in supporting effective collaboration between seasoned professionals and young talent
• Gain insights into creating impactful programs that go beyond digitization to drive real innovation and outcomes
• Explore the common barriers to integrating new technologies and how to overcome them.

In this episode of Hard Hats and Hi-Tech, our host Bernardita Calzon sits down with Dory Azar, a licensed architect from Ontario, Canada, and a Strategic Account Executive at RIB Software. Dory brings a dynamic perspective to the discussion, blending his expertise in architecture with a wry sense of humor and a big social media presence.

Join us as Dory describes the multifaceted role of architects, from designing buildings and interpreting codes to collaborating with engineers and navigating complex client expectations. He reflects on how technology is changing the industry—enhancing collaboration, streamlining processes, and enabling architects to detect and resolve issues earlier than ever before.

What you’ll learn:

• Understanding the diverse responsibilities architects manage beyond just designing buildings, including client interactions, building codes, and project execution
• Discover how Building Information Modeling (BIM) is transforming architecture
• Explore how architects are balancing eco-friendly design with client expectations for cost and efficiency
• Gain insights into the role AI and automation could play in shaping the future of architectural practices
• Hear Dory’s candid advice on navigating the challenges of architecture, managing expectations, and choosing the right career path within the construction industry
• Understand how increased access to information has made clients more sophisticated, influencing how architects approach projects
• Find out why strong communication and digital tools are critical for successful project outcomes.

In our first episode of Hard Hats and Hi-Tech, the premier construction technology podcast series powered by RIB Software, our host, Bernardita Calzon kicks off this journey with René Wolf, CEO of RIB Software. In this debut episode, René talks about the potential of leadership, innovation, and technology to reshape the construction industry for a more efficient and sustainable future.

Listen as René unpacks the biggest challenges facing the construction industry today, from inefficiencies and labor shortages to the growing demand for sustainable practices. He shares his vision for the future, highlighting emerging trends like digital twins, AI, and modular construction. René also reflects on the importance of staying ahead of industry innovations, overcoming resistance to change, and leveraging technology to foster collaboration and resilience in an ever-evolving landscape.

What you’ll learn:

• Explore René’s insights into inefficiencies, labor shortages, rising material costs, and the push for sustainable construction practices
• Learn about the future of construction, including digital twins, AI, automation, and modular construction
• Understand how to address fear and hesitation around adopting new technologies in a traditionally conservative industry
• Discover how real-time data, predictive analytics, and cloud-based tools help companies navigate economic challenges and improve collaboration
• Gain perspective on why staying ahead of industry innovations is essential for competitiveness and growth.