2. Open communication and collaboration
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Length:2.5 min read; 575 words
Note: The following paragraphs summarize the category of Open communication and collaboration observed in September. More information about the specific category from September (and previous months) can be found in the downloaded report(s).The number in square brackets (e.g., [X]) refers to a reference where the reader can find more information about a specific statement. The references can be found in the References list below, Systematized References page or in the downloaded report.
We estimate that the industry is communicating and collaborating in September less openly than in August and July (50%; down from 70% in August and July, and from 80% in June; from 90% in May; and 100% in April). Practitioners are becoming more cautious and protective of their businesses given the countless challenges, such as backlog decline, reports of owners going to competition, delayed and cancelled projects, increased cashflow issues, issues with contracting and potential litigations, etc. The trend we suggested in May that the industry accepted open communication and collaboration as a new normal is less visible in September. The number of mentions of Open communication and collaboration was lesser than in August (5.7% in September vs. 6.6% in August vs. 6.4% in July). In July we identified that acquisitions [150] and collaborative contracts are on the rise in AEC [151]. We can expect more mergers and partnerships as they lead to more control and better margins (e.g., supply chain news in September: Maersk's latest reshuffle dissolves Damco, integrates air and LCL [152]). Acquisitions are always challenging, but the benefits can absolutely outweigh the hassle of merging two or more companies, especially if the purchase price is attractive.Taking the leap to acquire a business, especially one that has been negatively impacted by the pandemic, is a risk. But you can be certain that our economy will recover in time. That's not a guarantee that the acquisition target will recover, but it does lower the risk. [153]
Examples of collaborations in the current pandemic lead to success, such as Coca-Cola and Land O'Lakes collaboration is key to reducing empty miles in their supply chains [213]. We must all work together to ensure high levels of cooperation between OEMs and suppliers, as well as public and private sectors, including governments, academic institutions, industry and philanthropic organizations. A study from Social Science & Medicine reveals that partnerships that combine public-sector strengths are the most successful; they combine social responsibility, accountability and local knowledge; with those of the private sector: innovation, technical capability, managerial efficiency and an entrepreneurial spirit. [214] Success in Virtual Design & Construction (VDC) projects requires collaboration. Accelerated digitalization is bringing more VDC projects which means more open collaboration projects in AEC. [139][215] Although it seems that there are more examples of successful VDC projects on infrastructure tasks that do not require architects. [139][216] The only way to implement open standards about BIM and digital technologies in AEC is through open communication and collaboration. [139][217] The European Rental Association (ERA) urged members to encourage other companies to become members; “Getting more members means more knowledge, more to share, and more power [to influence].” [218]
Open communication and collaboration is required to enhance the fight for social justice and equity. [126] [188] AEC community should empower citizens to transform their cities through a truly collaborative model of working with the community, rather than merely designing for them. [190] Open communication and collaboration is one of the pandemic’s silver lining. [219] In mobilizing against the coronavirus, scientists around the world are sharing information like never before, and pharmaceutical companies are collaborating in unprecedented ways. These collective efforts are being supported by dynamic public-private partnerships, showing that this instrument of development can indeed be “win-win” when it is properly focused and there is clear alignment. [220] Melinda and Bill Gates foundation Goalkeepers: We can end COVID-19. Together. – a collaborative response is needed. [221] More than 150 countries are working together to equitably distribute a COVID-19 vaccine - but the U.S. is not one of them. [222]
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