Episode 20: From Tools to Tech: Introducing Causeway’s COO Paul Devlin

Summary:

In Episode 20 of Construction Talk Peter sits down with  Paul Devlin, the dynamic Chief Operating Officer at Causeway. Paul, with over 30 years in software and tech, sheds light on the industry's evolution, from its traditional roots to embracing disruptive technologies.

Paul's journey takes a remarkable twist as he shares how he departed from the construction industry three decades ago, after working as a plumber and heat engineer, to embrace the world of software. This unique perspective fuels his passion for blending these worlds and driving Causeway towards a tech-infused future. As the interview unfolds, Paul unveils the challenges of digitisation in a field where each construction site is uniquely complex. He delves into the pivotal role of collaboration and the unexpected catalyst of COVID-19 in driving technology adoption.

Paul's breakdown of digital transformation levels, from redefining business models to on-site tech integration, paints a vivid picture of the sector's future. Witness Paul's vision for a data-driven construction landscape, where actionable insights pave the way for success. With a call to adopt a software mindset, he envisions a future where data, processes, and decisions intersect to shape industry leaders. Tune in to gain exclusive insights into Causeway's transformative journey under Paul Devlin's expert guidance and explore how the marriage of construction and technology is shaping a new era.

Time-stamped highlights:

[00:19]

Peter introduces Paul Devlin, COO at Causeway Technologies  Gateway

[00:40]

Paul spent four years in the industry thirty years ago

[01:50]

"I spent thirty years in the technology world working with telecom companies,  retailers and banks, helping them take advantage of this digital transformation. I think everybody knows that the construction world is now getting there. And wants to start to take advantage of it. And from a Causeway perspective, it really is about being where our customers are going to be."

[02:05]

Paul acknowledges that the construction industry is evolving and embracing new technologies and approaches. He emphasises that it's crucial for Causeway to keep up with these changes.

[03:05]

Paul views the need to stay ahead of industry changes as an exciting challenge. He mentions the term "disruptor" and compares it to how industries like automotive (electric cars, represented by Tesla) and communication (Google and social media) have been disrupted. He sees Causeway's role as a disruptor in the construction industry.

[05:10]

Paul discusses the strategic decisions and investments made by Causeway to scale the organisation's impact and value to its customers. 

[08:44]

Paul shares his thoughts on the digitalisation and technological advancements taking place in the construction industry, particularly on construction sites.

[10:20]

Paul highlights the significant changes and challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in the context of how businesses had to adapt and think creatively. 

[19:44]

"We have changed and we have developed the construction industry, and that mindset of change is that whole behavioural change that we now need to go as an industry."

[20:34]

Paul talks about supporting micro businesses that exist within the supply chain of hundreds of people and thousands of businesses. These smaller businesses play a crucial role in the larger ecosystem.

[24:39]

"Every single day, you know, our thinking is is really about how do we work not only with our customers, but also the ecosystem to how and how do we find ways to simplify."

[26:19]

"We'll be ready to apply artificial intelligence to the processes..."

[31:05]

 "When I think of construction and, you know, I think about the joy that construction brings to people's lives."

[31:56]

"I think there's a huge opportunity for us to bring new talent into this industry."

[36:05]

Paul talks about Causeway efforts to improve mental health onsite.

[40:05]

"I'm genuinely really excited about what I think networks and the power networks can bring to this industry."

[41:59]

Paul shares his closing thoughts.

[44:04]

Peter wraps up the podcast.