Digital technology key to collaborative working in industry, report reveals

Creating digital workflows that support the collaborative principles that underpin successful project delivery could have a transformational effect on the industry.

That was one of the main findings of NEC Contracts’ Smarter, greener, together report, published by Thomas Telford Ltd (TTL), the commercial arm of the ICE.

Surveying over 250 built environment professionals, including senior figures across civil engineering, utilities and government bodies, the results showed the construction industry is ready for change.

However, it found a lack of training and in-house expertise, alongside limited resources, as barriers that have yet to be overcome.

Strong appetite for change

The research reveals that while 76% of respondents believe the sector is keeping pace with digital innovation, adoption remains practical, with tools typically implemented only when necessary.

However, 79% agree that digital technologies are crucial for attracting new talent to the profession.

On sustainability, 76% agree the industry takes environmental concerns seriously, though only 34% see sustainability fundamentally transforming contracts.

Awareness of sustainability-focused clauses such as NEC's Option X29 remains low at 15% overall, rising to 52% in the public sector.

The research highlights a significant gap between ambition and implementation in collaborative contracting.

While 82% feel positive about increased adoption of collaborative contracts, only 8% currently use them on all projects.

When organisations do adopt collaborative approaches, results are impressive: 83% report improved quality, 82% see greater innovation, and 81% achieve higher efficiency.

Training emerges as key enabler

The research identifies training as the primary barrier to wider adoption of collaborative approaches, with 43% of respondents highlighting this need.

This presents a clear opportunity for professional development and education to bridge the gap between industry aspirations and practical implementation.

Andrea Naylor, managing director of Thomas Telford Ltd, highlighted that the three elements studied in the report are interconnected.

She said: "The report reveals an industry that understands the direction of travel and requires support on the way.

“We see digital transformation, sustainability and collaboration not as separate challenges but interconnected elements that need to be brought together effectively to achieve more intelligent, efficient and equitable project delivery."

The new report shows Thomas Telford Ltd's position in supporting the civil engineering profession's evolution towards more collaborative and sustainable practices.

Read the full report