A free mentoring service has launched to support businesses with implementing digital processes and techniques by offering technical advice and guidance.

Digital Construction Skills (DCS) is funded by the Construction Industry Training Board to help construction companies develop the skills they need to drive digital transformation in their business. With a strong focus on SME business owners, directors and senior managers, DCS aims to demystify digital tools and help businesses choose the best ones to align with their goals through the mentoring service.

All the mentors on the programme have recent, real-world experience on the front line of the construction industry and are specialists in the technical and commercial aspects of digital construction. This includes digitalising information flow and physical elements, such as 3D models and reality capture.

There are many benefits to adopting digital practices, including helping firms to reduce admin time and costs, improve safety and quality, keep digital records which could speed up payment and protect against claims and also increase productivity of engineers and other site staff. DCS has identified time as a particularly important factor for many small businesses, which is why they aim to make the process as simple as possible. There are no forms to fill in with the service, applicants can simply book a 15, 30 or 60-minute meeting with a digital construction specialist.   

Additionally, DCS assures that a mentor can help support at various stages of a business’s digital journey. This includes those at the very start of their journey, having not yet explored how digital tools can support their business, through to guidance on accessing a range of funding and support available for digital adoption.

Saffron Grant, managing director at Digital Constructions Skills, said: “Digital leadership skills are so important because the way we work is changing. Understanding the benefits of digital technologies, and how they can help you achieve your business goals can ensure your business remains competitive and profitable in a rapidly changing landscape.

“This mentoring service can help you select the digital tools that are right for your company and get the very best out of them. The programme is supported by free eLearning modules, training courses and other valuable resources.”

Andy Dalrymple, managing director at Mackenzie Construction, one of the businesses that has received support from the service, said: “Digital Construction Skills helped us access funding to help us train our staff in a new digital platform we are rolling out across our business.” Another business helped by DCS was Patterson Bailey Engineers. Owner Ed Clement said: “Thanks to free support from Digital Construction Skills, I am adding several new revenue streams to my business including carrying out drone surveys and setting out construction works.”

Click here to find out more about Digital Construction Skills.