Industry and Academic Forum – Strategies to Improve Productivity in NZ’s Built Environment

School of Built Environment (SBE), Massey University.

Recently, our Director Sanjesh Lal had the opportunity to participate in a panel discussion at Massey University titled ‘Strategies to Improve Productivity in NZ’s Built Environment’. This conversation brought forward diverse perspectives on boosting productivity in New Zealand’s construction sector—a goal that remains challenging but attainable through targeted strategies. Summarised below are key takeaways from the discussion, which we hope will inspire meaningful change across our industry.

The forum brought together a brilliant panel: Mohamed Elsayed, Chair of Auckland CIOB, Dr. Fahimeh Zaeri-McGregor, founder of Delta Informed Decisions, Sathy Thurairajah, Construction Director at 3Eyes Construction Group and Professor Janaka Ruwanpura from the University of Calgary, Canada. The day’s focus was on ‘Strategies to Improve Productivity in New Zealand’s Built Environment.’

Navigating the Productivity Gap: Identifying Core Obstacles

One recurring theme was the persistent productivity gap facing our industry. Compared to other sectors, construction’s output has lagged, often due to entrenched practices and inefficiencies. A shared sentiment was that industry-wide progress requires commitment to examining and transforming these existing processes. The discussion called for a collaborative approach among all stakeholders—clients, contractors, architects, and consultants—since genuine productivity gains come from alignment on shared goals.

Rethinking Traditional Project Approaches: Flexibility in Planning

An interesting point was the need for flexibility in project planning. Traditionally, rigid timelines and cost structures can hinder adaptability, leading to setbacks that impact project efficiency. By allowing for more adaptable project schedules, we can better respond to unexpected challenges without compromising on quality. Many panellists advocated for adopting flexible planning approaches that focus on realistic timelines, paving the way for improved efficiency and reduced pressure across project teams.

Digital Integration: The Future of Construction Productivity

Today’s technology offers tools that can significantly boost productivity, yet our industry has been slow to adopt them. Digital integration—whether through Building Information Modelling (BIM), project management software, or real-time communication platforms—can streamline workflows, improve project accuracy, and promote collaborative problem-solving. During the panel, we discussed how prioritising digital solutions could drive not only productivity but also profitability, creating a win-win for all involved. To see substantial improvement, we need to encourage industry-wide commitment to digital transformation.

Emphasising Skilled Workforce Development: Training for Tomorrow

Another essential factor raised was the need for ongoing workforce training. As construction methods evolve, so too must the skills of those executing these projects. The panellists highlighted the importance of upskilling and training initiatives, particularly for younger generations entering the field. By investing in training, we’re not only boosting productivity but also ensuring that New Zealand’s construction sector remains competitive on the global stage.

Collaboration as a Cornerstone: Building Stronger Partnerships

Collaboration emerged as a central theme in the conversation, with many panellists emphasizing that productivity hinges on strong partnerships. In a sector where projects are complex and multifaceted, fostering open communication from the outset can make a significant difference. Early involvement of all parties in project planning—clients, subcontractors, and consultants—can help prevent miscommunication and costly misunderstandings. We all agreed that the future of productivity lies in a shift towards a more collaborative, inclusive working culture.

Looking Ahead: Building a Productive and Sustainable Industry

The panel concluded with a call to action for the construction industry: embracing productivity-enhancing practices isn’t just about short-term gains. It’s about building a sustainable future where our work can evolve with the demands of a changing world. By rethinking traditional approaches, integrating digital solutions, prioritising workforce development, and embracing collaboration, New Zealand’s built environment can achieve new heights of productivity and efficiency.