Paris Olympics 2024: Construction can relate to the challenges
We recently explored whether we should begin comparing construction roles to others in order to appreciate value , as part of our explanation why we will be watching the Paris Olympics with extra intrigue. However, beyond individual roles, construction’s overarching priorities are more relatable than it may seem.
The construction industry is far from perfect, but it’s aware of where it needs to focus. There are similarities between what a successful Olympics and an optimal construction industry look like, with continuous improvement being the key link.
Starting with something we’re specialists in through our experience in creating workforce management solutions – reducing risk and errors. Once every four years athletes compete in their chosen discipline after meticulous preparation. Having trusted the process, they do their bit to achieve success not only for themselves but for the team around them and their nation too. We see this process as a very similar one to that which construction workers should take every time they step foot on site. The training has been done, consistency and repeatability has been established and the task at hand is crystal clear. This all leads to a decrease in risk and errors.
The Olympics is a major sporting event, with thousands of people involved and thousands more in attendance. Preparation begins years in advance and every instalment aims to better the last. As such, there is an expectation and aspiration to raise standards and improve the experience for all concerned. Beyond the similarities in mindset, there are some specific examples where a construction project should match the Olympics. One example is the parallel between worker credentials and tickets. Both priorities mean having only authorised people on site and the necessary access control system to allow smooth entry. Without this awareness and management, the risks are substantial.
Thinking about ESG, the construction industry and the Olympics are both doing their bit – in different ways but with similar interests. Starting with the environment, reusing and recycling are relevant principles for any operation which aims to reduce its impact. This means careful resource management and using different tools to track progress. As well as a conscious effort from everyone involved to do their bit, from spectators to supply chain partners.
Moving onto social value, sustained efforts to increase participation and improve wellbeing are priorities for both Olympic teams and the construction industry alike. We see similarities between initiatives such as This Girl Can and Women in Construction, which address diversity and accessibility by making the change we want to see more visible. Social value will often be area-based and specific to different communities, but it’s equally interesting to see how national campaigns across different sectors can have a greater impact when they work together to empower people.
Though these are only a few examples, they all demonstrate how the construction industry can take inspiration from how other major operational exercises are executed. There is more in common than meets the eye and optimal delivery requires everyone to do their bit. When you’re watching the Olympics this year, think to yourself, which piece of the jigsaw are you?
For more of our latest news and insight, visit www.msite.com
Discover more MSite and Galliford Try success stories
Click for more information about our work with Galliford Try’s on their Monk Bridge development project.