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Navigating the Digital Era: Insights from a Leading Construction Expert, Ahmad M. Salih

The construction sector stands at the forefront of transformation in an era of innovation and technology reshaping industries.

Digitalization has become a driving force, revolutionizing how construction professionals approach their work.

To gain valuable insights into the evolving landscape of the construction industry, we sat down with an industry expert – Ahmad M. Salih, who shares their thoughts on digitalization, sustainability challenges, and the potential of cutting-edge technologies.

Q & A with Dr. Salih

Who Did We Interview?

Dr. Salih, a renowned thought leader, has earned a coveted position among the top 10 ranked by Thinkers360 in various domains, including Leadership, Digital Twins, Cultural Influence, Change Management, and Project Management.

Currently serving as the Vice President of Knowledge Management and Operational Excellence in Khatib and Alami PTE, Singapore, Dr. Salih also holds prestigious roles as an Associate Professor of Digital Leadership and Digital Strategy at Heriot-Watt University and Grenoble Ecole de Management.

Dr. Salih's extensive research background encompasses key areas such as leadership, Cultural Intelligence, entrepreneurship, Digital Transformation, and applying Aikido principles in large-scale business settings.

As a Knowledge and Innovation Management executive, Dr. Salih has taken the lead in strategically selecting and implementing appropriate digital platforms, aiming to facilitate knowledge creation, sharing, and curation across the entire organization. This is achieved by establishing communities of practice focused on ongoing services like Building Information Management (BIM) and digital document management systems.

As a cultural transformation architect, Dr. Salih has spearheaded numerous company-wide transformation programs, delivering tangible results in efficiency and profitability. Drawing upon theoretical frameworks and practical methodologies, he consistently achieves optimal outcomes.

Thanks to his strategic leadership competencies and skills, Dr. Salih has successfully led multiple organizational transformations, particularly in digital business, where agility and adaptability are paramount to ensuring uninterrupted operations.

Let Us Quickly Get To Our Expert’s Point Of View.

Question 1: How do you see the construction industry in 2023? Do you think this year will be a "digital year" for construction professionals?

In 2023, the construction industry will continue its trajectory towards digitalization. We are witnessing a significant shift in how construction professionals approach their work, with a growing emphasis on digital tools and technologies.

Professionals who embrace these changes and invest in digital transformation will likely see substantial benefits in efficiency, collaboration, and overall project outcomes. Therefore, it's safe to say that we are entering a "digital year" where these technologies will become integral to the construction process and pave the way for a more efficient and collaborative future.

Question 2: The construction industry has undergone dynamic changes over the years. What do you consider the biggest challenge for this industry now?

The construction industry has undergone significant changes, and as with any change, it brings about new challenges. One of the most pressing challenges facing the industry today is the need for sustainable development and environmentally responsible construction practices. The challenge is not only to construct efficiently but also sustainably.

This involves adopting eco-friendly practices, reducing carbon footprints, and promoting circular economy principles. Moreover, addressing workforce shortages and skills gaps is crucial to ensuring the industry can meet its goals while embracing sustainability. Combining innovative technologies, strategic planning, and a commitment to continuous improvement is essential to effectively addressing these challenges.

Question 3: What potential do you see in the latest construction technology trends? Are they capable of boosting the productivity of construction professionals?

The construction industry is experiencing a technological revolution, introducing various advanced tools and techniques to enhance productivity. Technologies like BIM, augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), artificial intelligence (AI), and Digital Twins are revolutionizing project planning, design, and execution. BIM, for example, allows for collaborative and data-driven project planning.

AI-driven project management tools can optimize schedules, allocate resources efficiently, and provide real-time insights into potential risks. AR and VR have also proved helpful in visualizing and interacting with construction projects, which helps reduce errors and improve communication.

Digital twins provide a virtual replica of the physical project, enabling real-time monitoring and analysis. Furthermore, integrating IoT sensors and data analytics can provide valuable insights into equipment performance and site conditions, further improving efficiency. When harnessed effectively, these technologies can significantly boost productivity, reduce costs, and improve project outcomes.

Question 4: Where do you see the construction industry in the next five years? Please share your valuable insights with our readers.

The construction industry is on the brink of a significant transformation over the next five years. Digitalization, with AI and automation, will become even more integral to project management and design. This will lead to a data-driven and interconnected industry, enabling better collaboration and decision-making. Sustainability will become essential, with green construction practices and renewable energy integration becoming standard.

Project co-creation, co-production, and co-consumption across key players and industries will foster innovation and cost-effectiveness. Continuous learning and adaptability will be critical for professionals to succeed in this dynamic environment. In summary, the construction industry's future is bright, with exciting opportunities for those who embrace these changes.

Get to Know Our Influencer

Question 5: In four words or less, what’s your prediction about the transforming construction industry?

Innovation, Sustainability, Digitally-Driven, People-focused

Question 6: What's your success mantra?

My success mantra is founded on Cultural Adaptability, Digital Ambidexterity, and Lifelong Learning.

Cultural Adaptability enables me to lead in cosmopolitan environments effectively. Digital Ambidexterity harnesses effectiveness, adaptability, and intelligence in the digital world, and continuous learning ensures that I continue to grow and develop, staying at the forefront of industry trends and best practices. These principles have guided my leadership journey and helped drive successful organizational transformations.

More Details

Dr. Salih excels as a course leader and designer, specializing in leadership and digital business strategy. He is also a published author, coach, and instructor, focusing on subjects such as leadership, Aikido, entrepreneurship, and digital transformation. His latest publications with Routledge signify a significant milestone in digital leadership, cross-cultural leadership, and cultural intelligence.