A few weeks ago, we had the opportunity to sit down with a panel of infrastructure construction professionals to discuss how they approach tracking projects and meeting compliance requirements in a world of increased infrastructure funding and federal reporting standards. The panelists shared the different ways they leverage the technological tools at their disposal to streamline the process of contract administration and compliance. More specifically, the panel discussed issues with offline systems, efficiencies gained by embracing the cloud, how to enhance transparency for project stakeholders, and methods for integrating digital systems with traditional survey tools.

 In this article, we’ll share some of the highlights of the panel discussion. If you’re interested in viewing the webinar in its entirety, you can watch it here.

 Panelists included:

• Peter Schirmer, P.E., Project Manager, BL Companies 

• Howard Weissberg, P.E., Deputy Director of Public Works, City of Middletown 

• Brian Ennis, P.E. City Engineer, City of Meriden

What are the most prevalent challenges with paper or spreadsheet-based record-keeping?

 “You’re an office break-in or a spilled cup of coffee from losing 6-7 months of work.” - Brian Ennis

 Both Ennis and Schirmer spoke to the precarious nature of paper files, especially when it comes to storage. Not only is a large stack of paper more likely to be damaged or misplaced, if a situation arises where the project manager needs to locate a specific record, it can be a time-consuming and paper cut-filled process. “If a contractor files a claim, now we’re rifling through 1200 days of written reports on paper,” said Ennis. In Connecticut specifically, teams are required to follow a four-volume method with retention laws that is much easier to track and store in a digital environment.