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INDUSTRY INSIGHTS
Inside Windover: The Technology Behind One Of The Industry’s Most Innovative Contractors

If you haven’t already seen, we’ve started publishing the inside workings of the innovation departments within the General Contractors building our world.

The first of these starts with Windover, a $150M Construction Management company based in Beverly, MA.

Below is a snippet from the case study, if you want the full scoop, click here.

Windover Construction's Innovation Approach

Windover Construction has developed a unique approach to innovation in the architecture, engineering, and construction industry. Rather than simply adopting trending technologies, they focus on solving real construction challenges through practical applications of technology.

Their innovation approach is characterized by:

1. Problem-driven rather than technology-driven solutions

2. Focus on real-world implementation instead of isolated pilots

3. Integration of technology directly into live projects

4. Embedding innovation into standard construction workflows

Windover evaluates potential innovations based on whether they impact at least one of four key areas:

• Cost reduction (reducing rework, streamlining workflows)

• Time savings (reducing construction timelines)

• Quality improvements (ensuring precision and accuracy)

• Safety enhancements (reducing risks for workers)

Windover's Innovation Process & Framework

Windover follows a structured 5-step process for implementing innovation:

1. Problem Identification: Innovation begins in the field with the challenges experienced on construction sites. The VDC and innovation teams spend significant time on job sites, directly engaging with field teams to understand inefficiencies.
   

2. Solution Development: Once a challenge is identified, Windover focuses on finding the right technological solution, not just adopting the latest trend. They first evaluate existing in-house capabilities before seeking external solutions through partnerships with technology providers, startups, and academic institutions.
   

3. Implementation Approach: Following a "stop testing, start building" philosophy, Windover implements new technologies directly in active projects. They start small, take intelligent risks, and focus on practicality.
   

4. Technology Integration: Successfully tested solutions are integrated into standard workflows and become part of the company's construction process.
   

5. Continuous Improvement and Scaling: Successful implementations are documented, refined, and scaled across the organization to become standard practice for future projects.

Windover's Technology Stack

Windover has developed a comprehensive technology stack focused on three main areas:

A. Reality Capture and Quality Analysis

• High-precision scanning systems (Faro laser scanners with 2-3mm accuracy)

• LiDAR-equipped drones for aerial surveys

• Quality control integration through overlay systems (NavSports)

B. Digital Design and Visualization

• Advanced modeling tools (Autodesk Revit, Civil 3D, 3D Max)

• Custom-developed scripts for automated code checking

• Immersive technologies (VR, Mixed Reality with HoloLens, XR)

• Digital twin implementation using Autodesk Tandem with IoT sensors

C. Automation and Manufacturing Innovation

• Robotic systems (automated diamond cutting, Howick machines for roof trusses)

• Digital fabrication tools (3D printers, automated prefabrication systems)

• Digital layout tools and automated quantity takeoff systems

Lessons from Windover's Journey

For Construction Companies:

1. Build Innovation from the Ground Up: Innovation should emerge from real-world challenges rather than top-down directives.

2. Take Intelligent Risks: Start with smaller projects, document outcomes, scale successful innovations, and learn from failures.

3. Invest in People First: Focus on training, create opportunities for experimentation, celebrate successes, and build a culture that embraces change.

4. Partner Strategically: Build relationships with technology providers, academic institutions, and industry peers.

For Technology Providers:

1. Focus on Real Problems: Address specific construction challenges and demonstrate clear ROI.

2. Build for Integration: Design tools that work with existing systems and support different levels of technological sophistication.

3. Understand the Construction Environment: Consider the unique challenges of construction sites, including durability requirements and varying skill levels.

The key takeaway from Windover's approach is that successful innovation in construction isn't about adopting technology for its own sake—it's about applying the right technology in the right way to solve real problems and improve construction outcomes.

To go deeper, check out the full case study here: https://bricks-bytes.com/innovation-case-studies/

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